David and Charles signs Debbie Bliss MBE for Peter Rabbit
David and Charles Publishing is extending its licensed craft books range with a new book by renowned British knitwear designer, Debbie Bliss. Peter Rabbit™ Baby Knits is officially licensed by Penguin Ventures – on behalf of brand owner and Beatrix Potter’s original publisher, Frederick Warne & Co. Ltd – and will publish in August 2025.
Bliss, 71, was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s 2016 Birthday Honours List for her services to hand knitting and the craft industry. Known for classic knits with a contemporary twist and particularly for her baby and childrenswear, she has published over 50 books and design booklets and has lectured in the UK, Europe, Mexico, India and North America. She also has her own brand of hand-knitting yarns which are sold worldwide.
Knitting has undergone a huge resurgence since the pandemic as well as what is being described as “the Tom Daley effect.” There are an estimated 7.3 million knitters in the UK.
Ame Verso, David and Charles Publishing Director said: “We are honoured and excited to be working with Debbie on this remarkable licensed property. Debbie is exceptionally talented and she and Peter Rabbit are both iconic, so this is a match made in heaven!”
Thomas Merrington, Creative Director at Penguin Ventures said: “Peter Rabbit is one of the most successful baby apparel brands in the UK and we are delighted to be releasing a second book with David and Charles. Debbie Bliss is incredibly influential within the knitting and craft industry and this book will beautifully showcase her range of knitwear, for readers to create for a new generation of Peter Rabbit fans.”
Peter RabbitTM Baby Knits will publish in August 2025. Other THE WORLD OF PETER RABBIT™ craft books published by David & Charles include Knitting Peter RabbitTM by Claire Garland, and the forthcoming Peter RabbitTM Crochet Toys by Carla Mitrani, with further titles in discussion.
