PretaPawte - Ready-ToWear Pet Accessories

Pretapawte will be at the Old Bus Depot Market on Sundays 12th and 19th of December

2010-12-11T06:12:00.000+10:00

The Old Bus Depot Markets are open EVERY SUNDAY 10am – 4pm.

The Bus Depot Markets are a national award winning market with a fresh contemporary feel.

This weekend why not come and get out of the heat at Canberra’s only indoor markets and experience the vibrant atmosphere and a truly sensory experience.

You will find over 200 stalls of exceptional quality, featuring unique items that are handcrafted by local and regional artists and craftspeople, inlcluding PretaPawte!

Located in the Old Bus Depot building on Wentworth Ave. in Kingston, Canberra, the markets are easy to access, have ample free parking and a wide range of food stalls to enjoy lunch, a coffee or a quick bite to eat.

See you all there!

Pretapawte launches new online Store

2010-12-02T21:26:00.000+10:00

We've made the leap to Big Cartel! I'm busily loading up all of our new designs so keep coming back to see what's new!

We will still be running our Etsy Store if that's how you prefer to shop.

We're off to the Canberra Handmade Market on Saturday

2010-11-29T20:48:00.000+10:00

Come and see us this Saturday 4th of December at the Canberra Handmade Market.

We have been busy restocking since the last one which was so good we had very few collars left.

You will find us at stall #67 outside near the top road.

If you are on the lookout for a special Christmas collar make sure you measure up for your pooch or moggie before you get there. It makes it much easier to pick the right size on the day.

Pretapawte in a Treasury by Laughing Fridge

2010-11-15T10:28:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Laughingfridge for including me in their treasury!

Pretapawte - What's new?

2010-11-02T21:23:00.000+10:00

Well, it's been a while since our last post as we have been busily renovating our new house in Canberra through the winter months but as the snow thaws, we are getting busy again!

We had a great market in September at the Canberra Handmade Market. It was good to see the first rays of sunshine bring out a great crowd. We will be back at the Handmade Market on the 4th of December. Make sure you get along and see us and if you're looking for a dog collar, measure your dogs current collar length before you come so we can ensure you get the right size on the day.

We have been busy shopping for new fabrics and have more than 20 new designs to show off in Spring. There might even be some special Christmas themes for the pet who has everything.

Now all we need to do is find the time to take the photo's to put up in our Etsy store. So much to do!

PretaPawte in a Treasury by Noogal

2010-05-17T22:11:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Emma from Noogal for featuring this PretaPawte collar in her treasury

Market Wrap Up

2010-02-07T17:04:00.001+10:00

We have just got back from another day at the market. And whilst the crowds were a bit thinner than before Xmas we still had a good day. Well Tony did anyway...Thanks Tone for manning the stall for me!

The Bus Depot Markets is an indoor market (just as well since it rained today), so we have done a bit of rearranging of the set up to fit everything in and I'm pretty happy with the result but there is still more to come for next time

Anyway, market days can be a bit tiring for all the team (including Alvin who has the tough job of guarding the house)...time for a well deserved rest

Or maybe just enough energy to make a tapenade with the beautiful Olives that I bought from the market?

But then again maybe that can wait for another day.

PretaPawte at The Old Bus Depot Markets this Weekend

2010-02-05T18:19:00.000+10:00

The Old Bus Depot Markets are open EVERY SUNDAY 10am – 4pm.

Happy Customers

2010-02-01T22:05:00.001+10:00

Here at PretaPawte we love to here from our satisifed customers and love to see photos of precious pets wearing our designs.

Below is some photos of the cats from Lissa at Forever Foster. Check out Lissa's blog for more info of the happenings in a cat foster house.

Cute Little Ronny (bottom) wearing the limited edition hippy swirl with his big sister Suey (top) in a stripy number

Check out our esty store for more designs

PretaPawte in Two Treasuries this week

2010-01-08T20:39:00.000+10:00

Thanks so much to Shazzabeth and VanillaPixie, for featuring these two PretaPawte collars in their etsy treasuries this week!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35102418

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23973068

Lessons from Xmas Day

2009-12-30T21:15:00.001+10:00

1. An only child cat does not take well to sharing Xmas day with an over excited Poodle....Hisssss
2. When unable to access the litter tray the Xmas tree will be used for a toilet
3. PretaPawte Collars are well recieved as Xmas presents
3. Santa outfits can reluctantly be worn to satisfy Grandparents

BrisStyle Indie Designer Market

2009-11-26T09:54:00.002+10:00

Unfortunately PretaPawte will not be available for the Brisstyle Indie Designer Market on 5th December but if you are in the area you should head on down to St Augustine's Church on Race Course Rd in Hamilton and check out the talented BrisStyle girls for some Xmas shopping.

Milk Thieves Art and Design

2009-11-25T09:52:00.000+10:00

From the 3rd December PretaPawte Cat collars and Dog collars will be availble from a great new retail outlet in Wollongong.

The Milk Thieves Art & Design store will be a mini market of handmade art, design and craft goods located in central Wollongong. The store aims to provide a place for independent and emerging creatives to sell their work in a small but unique space

Milk Thieves will be located at:
10A, 157 Crown St
Wollongong NSW 2500
(In the mall upstairs from Flightcentre
- near Medieval Disco)

Thank you Paddington Cat Clinic

2009-11-24T11:27:00.001+10:00

Well we are nearly over with the move, the movers are finished and that container is on the train on the way to Canberra, the house is clean and apart from a few mishaps with tape not sticking and the hot water heater breaking on the last day, things are going smoothly

Whilst Tony and I have been frantic with the move Alvin has had his feet up at the cattery at Paddington Cat Clinic.

Over the last 12 months, Alvin has spent many a weekend in the good hands of the Paddington Cat Clinic where the cuddles are included in the price. Thanks to everyone for taking such good care of my little man the piece of mind is priceless. Hopefully he is just a comfortable in his holiday house in Canberra.

Hot off the press

2009-11-23T08:32:00.000+10:00

We got a nice surprise this week when we were alerted by a customer to this little feature in the latest issue of the Brisbane News. You can check out the full copy on the Brisbane News Website we are on page 47.

A Nice little farewell present from Brisbane!

PretaPawte on Madeit in time for Xmas

2009-11-20T16:13:00.000+10:00

To make it eaiser for our Australian and New Zealand customers we have decided to open a Made it Store to compliment our etsy store.

At the moment we only have a limited cat collars listed but stay tuned for more items to be added in the weeks to come.

Catch PretaPawte @ Portside this weekend for our last market in Brisbane

2009-11-06T18:41:00.001+10:00

Yes its true PretaPawte is on the move. At the end of this month the whole family (including Alvin) will be moving to Canberra.

So....... if you are in Brisbane and want to catch us in the flesh before the move, head on down to Portside Wharf at Hamilton this Sunday 6th November from 8am to 1pm.

We have a few new cat collars and dog collars available so if you are in the area please pop on down as this will be your last chance to catch us in person. And a great opportunity to get some xmas presents for the furry kids.

Of course we will still have all our collars available for sale online at our etsy store. But if you prefer to shop in person come and say hi on Sunday.

See you there!

PretaPawte @ SouthBank

2009-11-02T21:23:00.000+10:00

We had a great day at the Young Designer Markets at Southbank on the weekend.
The photos below show the further enhancements to our market stall that we have made since last month. Tell us what you think of our new additions to the stall.

Our beautiful Cat Silhouette was designed for us by the talented Amanda from Twinkle Star Art.

The Sausage Dog proudly displaying a range of PretaPawte Collars

The overall look

Young Designers Market, Brisbane

2009-10-31T22:43:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow morning from 10am PretaPawte will be at the Young Designers Market, Southbank.

If you are in Brisbane come on down and pay us a visit and grab something for your furry friends

There will be a few other friendly BrisStylettes selling there wares as well.

http://kittybooboo.etsy.com

http://Chicuff.etsy.com

http://ruby2gogo.etsy.com

http://wickedchilddesigns.etsy.com

Boutique Markets

2009-10-13T19:05:00.005+10:00

Thanks to everyone that came and visited at the Boutique Markets on Sunday.

The PretaPawte market stall had a bit of a face lift for the markets, so here are some photos for those that couldn't make it on the day.

Tony hones in on a prospective customer

Cat collar display

The new Banner and backdrop

The dog collar range on display

Thank you to everyone who gave us great feedback on the day!

See you all at Portside Next month on the 8th November 2009!

Just one Word

2009-10-12T11:20:00.004+10:00

(I found at Petalplum). Copy and change the answers to suit you and pass it on. It’s quite tricky to use only one-word answers.

1. Where is your cell / mobile phone? charging

2. Your hair? short

3. Your mother? frantic

4. Your father? brooding

5. Your favorite food? lamb

6. Your dream last night? nothing

7. Your favorite drink? coke

8. Your dream/goal? content

9. What room are you in? study

10. Your hobby? sewing

11. Your fear? alone

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? family

13. Where were you last night? home

14. Something that you aren’t? neat

15. Muffins? blueberry

16. Wish list item? business

17. Where did you grow up? Wollongong

18. Last thing you did? washing

19. What are you wearing? house clothes

20. Your TV? nice

21. Your pet? Alvin

22. Friends? old

23. Your life? tiring

24. Your mood? anxious

25. Missing someone? yes

26. Vehicle? car

27. Something you’re not wearing? shoes

28. Your favorite store? pass

29. Your favorite color? blue

30. When was the last time you laughed? yesterday

31. Last time you cried? weeks

32. Your best friend? Tony

33. One place that I go to over and over? Kitchen

34. One person who emails me regularly? spam

35. Favorite place to eat? outside

Have you been to the Boutique Markets?

2009-10-06T21:06:00.006+10:00

If not you should make the trip this Sunday morning from 8am til 1pm.

Alvin will be having a well earned sleep in (he's had a tough week strutting his stuff around the house and sleeping on the bed) this weekend but Tony and I will be at Hamilton Wharf bright and early setting up the stall.

Come on down and say hello! We have quite a few new cat collars and dog collars that will be on offer for the first time this weekend! But don't just stop at the PretaPawte stall, come and check out the many other great items on sale.

World Animal Day 4th October 2009

2009-10-04T09:52:00.009+10:00

World Animal day is intended as a day of celebration for anyone in the world who cares about animals and among other things to acknowledge and be thankful for the way in which animals enrich our lives. So in celebration here are some of my favourite animals that I have encountered above and below the water in the last couple of years.

Also don't forget that for every cat collar sold through our etsy store PretaPawte are giving $1 to the Cat Protection Society.

Racecourse Rd Street Party 20th Sept 2009

2009-09-19T15:30:00.002+10:00

Are you looking for something to do tomorrow?

Why not head down to the Racecourse Rd Street Party, Ascot?

As part of the Brisane festival the Racecourse Rd Street Party promises to be a great day out with free live music across four stages, countless food, craft and art market stalls, music and dance workshops.

And you guessed it PretaPawte is going to be part of the fun. Jump in the car or hop on the rivercat and come on down and see us at the party.

We will be sharing a stall with Wicked Child Designs and will be amongst many other fabuolous BrisStyle stalls, look for us in front of the church. See you there!

Boutique Markets this Sunday

2009-09-12T10:17:00.009+10:00

Tomorrow morning PretaPawte will be ready bright and early for another month at the Boutique Markets, Portside Wharf, Hamilton.

Along with many other Brisstylettes Tony and I will be at Portside from 8am to 1pm this Sunday. We'll have all your favourite collar designs for cats and dogs of all sizes on sale as well as a few new designs on offer.

If you want to find out more about the Boutique markets have you can read their newsletter here Or go the the Brisstyle blog to read about some of the other fantastic brisstyle retailers.

Come on down and your pampered pet could look as good as this.

This Photo was received from one of our happy customers Melissa from 7ball. Melissa has other great photos for sale in her etsy store.

See you at the market!

Voted Top 10, Winner announced and the Cat Protection Society

2009-08-25T22:11:00.005+10:00

A big thank you to everyone that voted for PretaPawte in the Etsy Fashion For Pets Poll. We are so please to have been voted in the Top 10 and to be featured in the Etsy Member's Choice Gift Guide with our Retro nest green cat collar

Its been a big week this week with lots going on and today I am please to announce the winner of our facebook giveaway, Lauren who chose the PretaPawte Pressed Flower Dog Collar as her favourite. Congratulations Lauren you collar will be in the post soon.

As most of our blog followers would be aware we got Alvin from the Cat Protection Society in Enmore in the middle of last year and not only is he now the most spoilt cat that ever lived (not that he'd admit it) but he has also has he changed our lives and brought us so much joy (not to mention a reason to make collars)

So with Alvin in mind its time again to say thanks to the Cat Protection Society for looking after Alvin and many other kittens and cats before they find their forever homes and for the next two weeks for every cat collar sold in our etsy store PretaPawte will give $1 to the Cat Protection Society.

Vote 1 for PretaPawte

2009-08-19T19:11:00.003+10:00

PretaPawte has been nominated for this week's round of voting in Etsy's Favourite Fashion for pet's

Our Retro Nest Green and Yellow Cat Collar shown below has been nominated along with many other trendy pet products.

The winner will be announced next Monday and along with some of the top picks, will be featured on Etsy in the Etsy blog.

Wish us luck and please head on over and vote for us here

The Difference Between Dogs and Cats

2009-08-18T22:05:00.005+10:00

Ever Wondered what the difference was between dog's and cats?

A dog thinks: Hey, these people I live with feed me, love me, provide me with a nice warm, dry house, pat me, and take good care of me... They must be Gods!

A cat thinks: Hey, these people I live with feed me, love me, provide me with a nice warm, dry house, pat me, and take good care of me... I must be a God!

Its so true in our house there is only one God his name is Alvin and he can do no wrong.

Below are some pet bed's that I found on etsy that are sure to make any cat feel like they are in heaven..not that they need any encouragement.

Etsy Finds

2009-08-17T19:48:00.002+10:00

With the weather warming up (well did it really ever get that cold here?) its time to think summer wardrobe.

Last years t-shirts are looking a little worse for wear so I have treated myself to a couple of new ones which I discovered at Xenotees on etsy. Lets just hope that these ones are strong enough to deal with Alvin's Talons.

The only down side is that now I have to sit back and wait for my present in the post.

PretaPawte Pet Collar Giveaway

2009-08-15T19:03:00.010+10:00

This week PretaPawte will be giving away a free dog collar to one of our loyal fans.

To be in the running all you need to do is head on over to our Etsy store..choose your favourite PretaPawte collar design and (if you are not one already) head over here and become a PretaPawte fan on Facebook and post a comment on the PretaPawte wall telling us which design is your favourite and why.

The winner will be chosen at random on Monday 24th August and will receive a custom made collar in their favourite design.

Which one will you choose?

Sale for one more day Only, Handmade Expo and the Front Page!

2009-08-14T21:22:00.007+10:00

Its going to be a bit of a mixed post today..so here goes......

Only one more day left of the EKKA Extravaganza sale. Hurry and take advantage of the variety of bargains on offer from the BrisStyle girls and remember PretaPawte is offering free postage within Australia.Tomorrow I will be forgoing the Saturday morning sleep-in and will be making my way to Ipswich to check out the Handmade Expo! No stall for us..we need a break..time to check out the handwork of other Crafty folk.

The Handmade Expo is made up of over 100 stalls with handmade goods on offer and this week is marking its first Birthday! Congratulations girls for keeping it going! Maybe I'll see you there

Saturday 15th August
8am-2pm
Ipswich Turf Club, Brisbane Road, Bundamba
Entry $2 adults...kids are free.

And finally some great news today....PretaPawte made the front page of etsy! in this great Navy themed treasury that was put together by the etsy team. Thanks guys for the feature such a nice surprise and thanks to Bec from Edward and Lilly for alerting me to our fame.

PretaPawte and Others at the Boutique markets

2009-08-08T17:43:00.004+10:00

Its time again for the Boutique Markets, Portside.

Tomorrow morning we will be up bright and early to set up our stall on Portside Wharf, Hamilton. The weather forecast promises that it will be a perfect day for a market with lots of sunshine on the way.

We'll be there from 8am so if you are in Brisbane why not drop in and say hi and pick up a funky dog or cat collar or some fantastic handmade goods from our fellow marketers........

PretaPawte is a funky find

2009-08-04T20:59:00.003+10:00

PretaPawte has been featured on another cool blog. Here is a photo of PretaPawte Pink Hibiscus collar featured on funkyfinds blog with some other cool pet products.

Don't forget that PretaPawte will again be at the Boutique Markets, Portside Wharf, Hamilton this coming Sunday. The markets are open from 8am to 1pm, come along and say Hi.

Simon's Cat New Animated film

2009-07-25T20:58:00.003+10:00

Being a cat owner I am very much a fan of the Simon's cat animated films as they are so true to life.

I'm so excited today to find that this new one has just been released. Although I haven't had a fly placed in my mouth whilst sleeping I can very much relate to the rest of the film. Enjoy!

Chocolate, Coffee and a collar or two

2009-07-10T20:42:00.005+10:00

The sweetest strawberries and rare blends of exotic coffee and exquisite chocolate from remote locations will be on offer this Sunday at Portside's Chocolate and Coffee Affair.
If you come on down between 8am and 4pm and you'll also see PretaPawte at the Boutique Markets.

If you decide to come and visit please say hi, we love to meet new people and pets.

Weekend Market Success

2009-07-07T22:32:00.002+10:00

Well we have just about recovered from a mammoth weekend of marketeering and just in time for another round at the Portside Boutique Markets this coming Sunday.

Saturday's Brisstyle market was so much and so successful for us that we were burning the candle at both ends and busy on the sewing machine till late at night to replenish stocks for the Young Designers Market on Sunday. Both days were equally successful with plenty of positive energy and fantastic feedback which is probably a good thing because I think by the end of the two days that was all the was keeping us standing.

Thanks so much everyone for introducing yourselves! It was great to meet in person and put faces to the names.

Let's hope that next weekend is even more fun and just as successful! If today is anything to go by it should be PretaPawte has been featured in yet another great Treasury on Etsy and this one made the front page! Thanks so much to Stacey of CreaShines for putting this wonderful Treasury together.

One weekend, Two markets, Look out Brisbane!

2009-06-30T20:43:00.005+10:00

This weekend we will be taking up stalls at two markets in Brisbane!

On Saturday the 4th of July (look out for the fireworks!) we will be hanging out with our favourite people in all of Brisbane, the Brisstyle team. Come and see us at St Augustine's Church Hall on Racecourse Rd at Hamilton between 9am and 2pm.

Pick up one of our fab cat or dog collars and then splurge on some clothes for the kids, a fab toy for that favourite niece or nephew and why not grab some ear rings, matching necklace and a hat for yourself as well? This promises to be a great day so come and see everyone.

So that's Saturday taken care of.....

Then only one sleep and we will be out doing it all over again at the Southbank Young Designers Market in Little Stanley Street at Southbank...

Suffice to say we are having a busy week this week preparing but throughout the mayhem you can rest assured that the quality of the Pretapawte product is being maintained under the watchful eye of Alvin, our little man in charge of the Quality Control division of Pretapawte.

So we look forward to seeing everyone at some stage over the weekend. If you found out about us from this blog then please say g'day. We love meeting everyone!

Alison, Alvin and Tony (the silent partner)

Two Treasuries in a week!

2009-06-25T21:22:00.006+10:00

Another nice surprise this week with PretaPawte Red and White Stars Dog collar included in this treasury by angelene, two in one week!.

PretaPawte has been featured along with; MTcoffinzUnderground, punknpatch, LushPunk, HopelesslyDevoted, sculleydesign, UniquelyDifferent, GlamRockEmporium, lovebugstudios, littlexbekahxbug, getyourbuttons, juror2.

Technorati Profile

A PretaPawte Cat collar in a Treasury

2009-06-24T20:39:00.004+10:00

How exciting a PretaPawte Cat collar has been included in this great treasury by Thair! Other great etsy stores included are; LeeshasWorkshop, MyDearest, TheSparklingCocktail, iron55, SaucyBird, alisonwoodley, NaomiMurrell, LonesomeBrown, kathleencosio, SoweluStudio, offwhite.

Looking forward to the BrisStyle Indie Markets

2009-06-14T19:52:00.004+10:00

Its been a busy week here at PretaPawte as we recover from our YDM market preparations.

As you can see from the photos below Alvin is a hard task master and he had me working (under his watchful eye) at the sewing machine day and night getting the stock ready for the market.

As a team we managed to get everything done and the market was a success. We got plenty of positive feedback, some well earned sales and some great ideas to have an even better stall next month.

Speaking of next month, if you missed us at YDM then drop on down to Racecourse Rd, Hamilton on the 4th July to see us and lots of other great BrisStyle girls at the BrisStyle Indie markets.

Tangled up in blue...

2009-06-05T11:33:00.005+10:00

So now Im goin back again,
I got to get to her somehow.
All the people we used to know
They're an illusion to me now.
Some are mathematicians
Some are carpenters wives.
Dont know how it all got started,
I dont know what theyre doin with their lives.
But me, Im still on the road
Headin for another joint
We always did feel the same,
We just saw it from a different point of view,
Tangled up in blue.

Tangled up in Blue - Bob Dylan 1974

That's the theme for today.

I've managed to add some great new blue collars to the PretaPawte dog collar range just in time for the Young Designers Marke t this Sunday at Southbank.

I have around 6 "never before seen" new designs coming out for display at the market on Sunday.

I look forward to seeing all of PretaPawte's Brisstyle friends and hope to get around to all of your stalls. If we haven't met then please come and say hi.

Alison

T Minus 7 days to the Young Designers Market

2009-05-31T17:03:00.004+10:00

Only one week to go until our market debut. Thought we'd try a small local market to start with.. the SouthBank Young Designers Market! I hope it's not too much to handle...

I'm off to Sydney tonight for work and not back in Brisbane until Tuesday night so we've had a staff meeting today to make sure that things keep ticking over in the Pret a Pawte workshop while I'm away.

It's one thing sewing to order and quite another sewing to build up stock in all of the fabrics and sizes. It doesn't help that while in Sydney last weekend I bought up big on new designs. I did get some great display ideas from some of the veterans at the Paddington Markets in Sydney.

I just hope I can trust the rest of the Pret a Pawte team to get on with things this week.

YDM, here we come!

PretaPawte take to the Young Designers Market

2009-05-17T21:13:00.004+10:00

Its been a big week here at PretaPawte as we prepare for the the Young Designer Markets in three weeks time. Alvin has been cracking the whip this weekend as we have been in production mode. He found himself the perfect spot to oversee the work but couldn't undertand why him lying all over the fabric was slowing down the work.
He relectantly moved and did managed to find himself another spot that enabled him to be part of the action but slightly less in the way. It seems that quality control is tiresome work.
With next weekend and most of the following week in Sydney it looks like we will be burning the candle at both ends this week to ensure that we have enough of each design (and a few new ones) available for the market.

PretaPawte in a Treasury

2009-05-10T20:20:00.004+10:00

After a relaxing weekend in Byron Bay involving, swimming scuba diving, eating and just general lazing around. I was pleasantly surprised to find that PretaPawte's Red and Black Polka Dot Dog Collar has been included in this cool treasury by bouji

The only downer from the weekend is that we can't pick up our little Alvin from the cattery until tomorrow afternoon. The house seems so quiet without his little paws bounding through the house.....but I guess Alvin probably needs time to enjoy his holiday too.

Blogs Unplugged @ Brisbane Stitches and Craft Show

2009-05-02T13:01:00.002+10:00

We've left Alvin the Cat at home for the day and come into the Stitches and Craft Show at Southbank in Brisbane and they have this great little area set up for logging on and Blogging so..

There are some pretty serious sewing machine displays here. Some the price of a small car! My husband says no though :-(

It's good to see some fellow Brisstylers here and I am buying up a storm. Anyway I just thought I'd logon and blog, seeing they went to the trouble of putting computers here.

Talk to you all later, I'm off to look at more stuff!

Brisstyle takes over the Stitches and Craft Show

2009-04-29T19:32:00.002+10:00

Well not really but the Stitches and Craft show is coming to town this weekend and there is a long list of Brisstyle girls who either have their own Incub8ter stalls are running tutorials, appearing on stage, or walking the cat walk... All the details are on the BrisStyle blog

A number of Brisstyle members (including PretaPawte) are offering 10% off their Etsy goodies for the month of May but you have to come along to the show to get your voucher to get the discount!! Check out the BrisStyle blog for all the details and a list of all participating shops.

It's all about cats

2009-04-22T22:27:00.008+10:00

OK so for the past couple of weeks PretaPawte has been supporting some fantastic organisations that help out dog's in need by finding them loving families but now its time to get back to our roots and do something for the cats.

We got Alvin from the Cat Protection Society in Enmore in the middle of last year and he is now the most spoilt cat that ever lived....or at least he's in the running. He has mountains of toys and his own toy box, a filtered water fountain, an automatic feeder, only eats the super premium food and has a whole back deck netted in for his own enjoyment...but he is worth it and it is thanks to the Cat Protection Society that we have him as part of our family and that i wake up each morning to his soothing purr and a paw in my face (not so soothing)

Over the last couple of days Alvin has been rather vocal, chirping, meowing and not to mention purring and it has been hard to understand what he wants but maybe this is it?? Till the end of April for every cat collar sold PretaPawte will give $1 to the Cat Protection Society.

Check out some of our cat collar designs below;

More Dog collars on the way

2009-04-18T21:43:00.005+10:00

Having only lived in Brisbane for a little over three months we thought that this weekend we needed to get out and explore a bit more of the surrounded area. This this morning we decided to make the trip to the Eumundi markets and stop off for a swim at a beach on the way back.

Well I can now see why everyone said DON'T go on a Saturday. These markets were amazing they go on for ages, so many stalls that it is hard to choose what to look at but so many people! Being a Sydney girl I thought that crowds would not faze me but perhaps I am losing my edge? We were somewhat puzzled also by the lack of a Turkish Gozleme stall, doesn't every good market have at least one?

So after having our fill of the markets (including home made lemonade, German sausages and rocky road...no wonder i am feeling queasy) we headed towards the coast to catch some waves. Having packed the beach tote with all things beachy we were well prepared for an afternoon of sun and surf. We headed down to Coollum to put a toe in only to find that our perfectly packed tote with, suncream, towels and swim suits was sitting neatly back in the kitchen where we had left it at home. Damn!!!

Anyway it has been a busy week for PretaPawte with three more new dog collar designs have been added to the collection. And we have a new website (www.pretapawte.com.au) under construction. Stay tuned for more on that soon.

Monika's Doggie Rescue

2009-04-15T21:23:00.006+10:00

On the back of last week's successful campaign for the RSPCA, PretaPawte has this week decided to give to a smaller but by no means less worthy organisation.

This week's design is the Aqua Kaleidescope Dog Collar as shown below and for everyone sold PretaPawte will donate $1 to Monika's Doggie Rescue.

Last week Monika's Doggie Rescue put out a plea asking for help as due to the financial crisis after 17 years of saving abandoned dog and puppies Monika's was going to have to close its doors. Monika was hoping to rasie $75,000 over the next 3 months just to keep things running. The appeal was picked up by newspapers and TV and radio stations and there was a great swell of support but they still need more help to continue.

We may be small here at PretaPawte but still feel that every little bit helps, so for the next week for every Aqua Kaleidescope Dog Collar sold PretaPawte will donate $1 to Monika's Doggie Rescue.

Easter

2009-04-13T20:14:00.005+10:00

We were hoping for a quiet Easter this year, four days with nothing to do. Instead, our little cat Alvin decided to escape. He's normally asleep on his purpose built back deck which we have meticulously netted in to seperate Alvin from the possums that live in the surrounding trees, but over the weekend he found a way out.

Come bedtime on Saturday night we went to say goodnight but he was no where to be found. Two people, in the dark, in their pyjama's, calling out "Alvin" was quite a sight for the neighbours.

After some time shaking a packet of his favourite Greenies treats we heard the familiar tinkle sound of the bell on his PretaPawte collar as he emerged from the shadows as if nothing had happened.

After banning him from the deck for the night we discovered a weak point in the netting which was patched up with a couple of cable ties, much to Alvin's disgust.

After this late night fun the rest of weekend was filled with more collar making. Our latest creation can be found here and expect to see a few more through the course of this week.

ZoeDog

2009-04-10T10:50:00.012+10:00

When I was younger my family had a dog called Zoe. My sister and I still maintain that our "Zoedog" was the best dog that there ever was. Zoe wasn't the cuddliest of dogs and in fact she never wanted to sit on our laps. Come to think of it she spent most of her time trying to make a run for the front door for an escape to freedom.

So Today I was flooded with childhood memories as I received thanks from Thea from Thea&Sami who purchased this PretaPawte Collar for her dog Zoe. Thanks Thea, Zoe looks fantastic in her PretaPawte Collar (even if she is too shy to show her face on camera)My Zoe was an pure bred Australian Terrier who came with the name Marjorie Jackson although of very successful show stock herself was not of show material and we changed her name to Zoe. The only show that she did attend she won both the fancy dress (as a hula girl, she was way ahead of her time as in the 80's not may people had outfits for their dogs) and the Good-O eating competition... she was such a super star and we loved her dearly.

Zoe was such a trooper and survived a painful knee dislocation and reconstruction operation, which did hamper her escape attempts, as well as almost being choked by a cocos palm seed which saw about 10cm of her intestine being removed after she decided it looked like a tasty morsel in the garden one day (I think mum still has the seed after it was removed). But despite all that and a few life threatening ticks Zoe lived to the ripe old age of 18 when mum and Dad had to make the hard decision to let her go. Zoe hasn't been with us for about 6 years now but she was the coolest dog ever and although she only wore a plain red collar (which still sits on her grave) I am sure that if given the chance she would have loved a PretaPawte collar to wear as she roamed the neighbourhood on one of her escapades.

PretaPawte Gives something back

2009-04-07T20:25:00.004+10:00

My cat Alvin was a rescue kitten that was left abandoned with his litter mates to fend for himself. If it wasn't for the tireless efforts of rescue shelters like the Cat Protection Society and the RSPCA we wouldn't be able to experience the joy and love that Alvin brings us everyday.

So here at PretaPawte we have decided that its time to give something back and I am please to announce that for the following week (7/4/09 to 14/4/09) for every "Georgie Chicken Dog Collar" sold PretaPawte will donate $1 to the RSPCA.

Alvin demands more trendy Cat Collars

2009-04-06T21:22:00.001+10:00

If there is one thing that is for sure its that in our house its all about Alvin and who could blame us he is so cute. Here he is guarding my fabric stash well that's what he told me he was doing..I'm pretty sure that he was just trying to be the centre of attention not that he needs to try very hard.
After a couple of weeks of concentrating on some new Dog collars designs, at Alvin's insistence I have today added two more Cat collars to the collection.

Introducing Tootie and Boof

2009-04-05T14:53:00.002+10:00

Say hi to PretaPawte's latest happy customers Toots the Whippet and Boof the RSPCA rescue dog from Gunnedah. We think that they look fantastic in their new PretaPawte collars but it looks like they would prefer to be strutting their stuff around the streets of Gunnedah instead of posing for photos..... "Come on mum take us for a walk so that we can show this town our hot new threads!"
Tootie and Boof are both outside dogs but that doesn't mean that they can't be stylish too. PretaPawte collars are fully washable. I recommend that you stick them in one of those delicates bags in the washing machine to keep them looking good.

Boof is wearing a 2.5cm wide collar in one of our most popular designs this red and black number. He is a big dog with a neck size of 49cm , but that is no problem for us as we can customise so that your collar is the perfect fit just like Boof's.

The more petite Toots prefers something a little more feminine and has chosen the Melrose Lilac design in a more delicate 2cm wide collar.

A Win to start off the weekend!

2009-04-03T22:40:00.002+10:00

Well the weekend has started off with a bang for PretaPawte with a Dragon's win at Suncorp! So to celebrate I have listed another two funky dog collars for sale.

Everyone seems to love the vibrant colours and although this one is not quite the red and white winners colours its close enough with red and black spots.

And this Kaleidescope pattern is one for the more understated pet.

Two more new designs

2009-04-02T22:17:00.005+10:00

Alvin loves nothing more than to chase bugs of any kind around the house. For those of you that have cats I am sure that you will agree that its pretty cute to watch them catch a fly between their paws Mr Myjagi style. So when i saw this dragonfly print I thought it was a perfect addition to any designer dog or precious pussy's wardrobe.

More New designs

2009-03-31T22:25:00.004+10:00

As promised today I have listed two more new designs. The first is a Cute Little Owl Print that I just couldn't resist.The second is a variation on the popular Red and White Star print in this Black and White Stars.

Both collars are avaiable in custom sizes and are made with high quality collar hardware and washable cotton fabric. The perfect addition to any pampered pooches wardrobe.

New Dog Collars available this week

2009-03-30T22:46:00.002+10:00

After my recent buying trip to Sydney I am now stocked up with new Fabrics for my Cat and Dog Collars.

This Mellow Yellow design is just one of many that I will be listing in the next couple of days.

Collars and other things

2009-03-26T20:53:00.005+10:00

I've been pretty slack with my blogging over the last week....so what has been happening???....
Well, After a long weekend in Sydney visiting family and friends I am revived and looking forward to a weekend of sewing. I am sporting a new haircut (from Scissorhands in Newtown) and have a swag full of fabrics from one of my favourite stores in Sydney, The Remnant Warehouse, these should keep me busy for some time.

I have also finished my dreaded skirt (and even ventured out of the house with it on so its probably not as bad as first thought) and have started making a Amy Butler tunic dress....very brave of me but hopefully this one turns out, I think that I am much better at making collars than people clothes.

Also , a big thanks to Therese from Little Mary Moo's Place for posting some great photos of her dog Lilly in her new Red and White Star Collar on her blog, she looks great, even if we can't show her face on camera.

Another new Collar as promised

2009-03-15T21:26:00.006+10:00

After a lunch with the Brisstyle team I was more than inspired to get onto some crafty exploits and this new dog collar, made from my new fabric is just one of the results.

The other is a skirt that I have been attempting to make for the past 4 weeks. I'm not overly pleased with the result however I think that I am a little harsh on myself..but because of that there are no pictures....to compensate here is a picture of Alvin making himself at home in my work space.

New Fabrics have arrived more funky collars are on the way

2009-03-12T21:37:00.005+10:00

New fabrics arrived today from sewlovefabrics. And I couldn't have asked for better service and packaging! I wish that I had taken a photo before I undid the packaging but I couldn't wait to get them out and have a closer look.

I am very excited to get to work and make some new dog and cat collars out of these awesome fabrics and have patiently been waiting for them to dry after their prewash. Looks like I have a busy weekend ahead. Keep an eye out in my etsy store for new designs in the coming week.

PretaPawte Dog Collars are ACE

2009-03-10T21:48:00.009+10:00

Meet our latest happy customer, Ace the German Shepherd from Canberra. Ace looks super cool in one of our 2.5cm wide Red and Black dog collars, and shows us that larger dogs have style too.

PretaPawte dog collars come in a range of sizes and can be custom made to fit your dog or cat.

Thanks to Ace's owner Sanjay for sending the great photos.

Another Stylish Cat, Cricket wears a Pretapawte Collar

2009-03-03T22:03:00.004+10:00

This is Cricket another one of our happy customers. Cricket was rescued from the RSPCA and is now rightfully spoilt and looking fine in a Candy Stripe Collar from Pretapawte

Black and White Georgie Chicken Dog Collar

2009-03-03T21:58:00.006+10:00

I just finished this new dog collar and couldn't wait to share this one. I'm calling it Georgie Chicken because it has little chickens in the fabric. Its very cute and would suit any dog who has taste and style.

PretaPawte on ModernCat

2009-03-02T21:54:00.005+10:00

Today PretaPawte made it to the big time with a link in the Etsy faves on the Modern Cat website .

Modern cat is a website that I have been following for a while now. They showcase cool cat paraphernalia for modern homes.

Nothing daggy and "Crazy-Cat-Lady-Like" on this site, everything is super cool and stylish so I am very excited to be listed as a fave.

PretaPawte Cat and Dog Collars On Sale!!!!

2009-02-28T15:53:00.006+10:00

For the month of march PretaPawte has dramatically reduced all prices by at least 20%

Cat and Small Dog collars now $8.95US

Med and Large Dog collars now $10.95US

http://pretapawte.etsy.com/

PretaPawte finds Moo

2009-02-26T22:20:00.004+10:00

This week the new minicards arrived from the printing company Moo. It was so easy to use all I needed to do was to upload the image and the information for the back of the card and it was all done in about 5 minutes.

The quality is fantastic and they arrived in just over a week from the UK.

PretaPawte has been Featured on two Great Blogs

2009-02-18T20:48:00.005+10:00

Today I had a nice surprise.

Thanks to Nicole from HotToffee, Pretapawte has been featured on two blogs!

http://bitsoftoffee.blogspot.com/

and

http://designersemporium.blogspot.com/

Nicole is a fantastic artist who makes fabulous jewellery and cute gift cards. She is a regular store holder and contributor at the Designers Emporium, a boutique market here in Brisbane.

Links

2009-02-14T21:49:00.003+10:00

Pets

The BrisStyle Team

2009-02-14T19:21:00.003+10:00

This week I decided to become part of the craft culture in Brisbane and joined the BrisStyle Team. BrisStyle is a group of Brisbane artists and crafters who sell their creations on etsy. Crafty creations range from photography, jewellery, handbags, kids clothes and now cat and dog collars.

Today was my first monthly catch up with some of the team in the convenient location of Pandemonium cafe in Paddington (just down the road from us). Pandemonium has a Newtown feel with its 70s style tables and vinyl seats so i felt right at home drinking my Earl Grey and slurping my minestrone soup.

Everyone was so friendly and bought along their newest creations. I was so impressed with the fabulous fabrics, fantastic jewellery and all the creative goods that were on show. It was great to meet fellow crafters and get new ideas about selling on etsy and other avenues such as markets in the Brisbane area.

Nico the Kitten in her new collar

2009-02-09T20:55:00.003+10:00

Nico is a Burmese x something.

She is just a baby but knows about style and couldn't wait to get her pink and yellow polka dot collar on. I probably could have made it a bit smaller to fit but this way she'll grow into it and she looks so cute.

Mala another happy cat

2009-02-07T21:58:00.005+10:00

Mala was one of our first customers. Her owner posted this on our facebook page

Testimonial from Mala
"Its so hard to find a collar today that is not only comfortable but looks good too. Before Pret a pawte all the collars I had would make me scratch but not anymore. My new collar is light and stylish and I feel like a new cat. All the boy cats in my neighbourhood now stop and stare when I walk by.
Thanks Alvin Wendall Britton and thanks Pret a Pawte"

My newest creation..... Dog Collars

2009-02-07T09:48:00.008+10:00

Cat collars have been my speciality however I have now branched out and am slowly adding dog collars to the range. Melrose in Lilac is one of the first on offer.

Like the cat collars these are lovingly handmade with new fabrics. I use durable hardware that secures easily into place. The fabrics, sourced from funky fabrix , my first great find in Brisbane, are all washable. I have used curved collar clips that contour to your dogs neckline and ensure that all ends are finished on the outside of the collar making for no scratchy ends on your little critters neck.

One of our happy Customers - Norman

2009-02-05T22:44:00.003+10:00

Norman is a wise old fellow who wasn't sure about his funky new collar. At least until he saw how cool he looked in this Psychedelic green number. What a handsome old man.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19130086

So I have decided to start a blog to promote my etsy store and other creative exploits

2009-02-05T20:48:00.007+10:00

The inspiration for Prèt à pawté -- ready to wear pet accessories -- was our cat Alvin, who my husband and I adopted from the Cat Protection Society in 2008. Being a modern cat Alvin wasn't interested in the usual cat collars with all their flashy diamantes and additional bling. Alvin is very NOW in his funky, handcrafted fabric collars and wanted to share his style with Dogs and Cats throughout the world.

http://pretapawte.etsy.com/

PretaPawte @ the Markets

2009-01-17T12:38:00.006+10:00

The Boutique Markets (formerly known as the Designers Emporium) has recently found a new home at Portside Wharf in Hamilton, Brisbane. Since its inception in 2007 the market has grown in profile and size to become a hub of local creative talent which offers a unique shopping experience; boutique shopping in a market atmosphere.

The expanded market will now be located in the exclusive riverfront shopping and dining precinct of Portside on the second Sunday of each month, between 8am and 1pm. Proudly supporting local independent design and craft, the market will host the work of more than fifty South East QLD -based stallholders including artists, designers, stylists, crafters and artisans. The market aims to promote and cultivate emerging local talent by offering a forum to promote and sell their work to the public.

As a locality Portside offers a great day out with an array of waterfront eateries, bars, cinemas, fresh food markets and retail shopping in addition to a first class international cruise terminal. The Boutique Markets offers a perfect compliment to the venue; it creates a festival style ambience in the outdoor plaza. Spend the day meandering between stalls and stroll the waterfront promenade before enjoying lunch in one of the many restaurants or cafes.

The Young Designer Market is held on the first Sunday of every month.

New on the Brisbane scene, the Young Designers Market feature some of the best of Brisbane’s up and coming designers and artists selling a range of fashion and accessories, jewellery, homewares, object design furniture and arts.

The Young Designers Market trades alongside the weekly Lifestyle Market. The Market is located on the lawn which runs along Little Stanley Street in the heart of South Bank’s restaurant precinct.

Trading hours are 10.00 am – 4.00 pm
Dates in 2009: 5 July, 2 August, 6 September,4 October, 1 November