Buyer guide · Development
Custom rug development, from CAD to approved strike-off
You send a CAD file, drawing or reference under an NDA. We review it, approve colour, and make a sample or strike-off in 5 to 20 days. Once you approve it and issue a purchase order, bulk production takes 8 to 16 weeks.
Last updated: 30 October 2026
Development path at a glance
- Start
- CAD file, drawing or reference, after NDA
- Sample or strike-off
- 5 to 20 days
- Approval
- Becomes the reference for bulk and final inspection
- Bulk production
- 8 to 16 weeks
Terms at a glance
- Minimum order
- 1 piece
- Sampling cost
- Credited against your order
- Sampling
- 5 to 20 days
- Bulk production
- 8 to 16 weeks
- NDA
- Signed as standard before designs are shared
- Label, barcode, packaging
- Your own, on request
- Payment terms
- 50% advance, 50% before dispatch
The path, stage by stage
- NDA and brief. We sign the NDA, then you send artwork, construction, materials, size and quantity. See sending artwork.
- Technical review. We check the design against the construction you want and advise on knot or tuft density, pile and material, as set out in rug specifications.
- Colour. Lab dips are approved under D65, TL84 and A light. See lab dip and colour matching.
- Sample or strike-off. Made to your specification in 5 to 20 days.
- Review and revisions. Changes are made at this stage, before any production commitment.
- Approval and purchase order. The approved piece is the reference.
- Bulk production and inspection. 8 to 16 weeks, with checks described in rug quality control.
Why the approved sample matters
The approved sample or strike-off fixes the standard: design, colour, pile and handle. Finished pieces are checked against it. That is why changes are cheapest at the sample stage. Sampling cost is credited against your order. The difference between a sample, a strike-off and a lab dip is on this page.
If it is for your own label
Custom development usually sits inside an OEM or private label programme. On request we can add your own label, barcode or QR sticker, and your own packaging. Your designs stay protected under the NDA, see NDA and design protection.
Start your custom rug brief
Send your design, size and estimated quantity. We reply within two business days, usually within one. Minimum order: 1 piece. Sampling cost is credited against your order. Payment: 50% advance, 50% before dispatch.
Buyer questions
Custom development: your questions
What is a strike-off?
A small section woven at the full production specification, used to approve colour, pile height and density before the order is woven.
Can you work from a CAD file?
Yes. We work from CAD files, drawings, reference images, colour references or physical samples.
How long does development take?
Sampling takes 5 to 20 days, then bulk production takes 8 to 16 weeks after sample approval. Both are confirmed on your quote.
Can I change the design after seeing the sample?
Yes. Revisions can be made at the sample stage, before production.
What is the minimum order for a custom design?
1 piece.
Is the sample cost lost if I order?
No. Sampling cost is credited against your order.
Who owns the design?
You do. We sign an NDA before designs are shared and make to your drawing. See the NDA page for details.
Which constructions can be developed?
Hand-knotted, hand-tufted, handloom, hand-woven and flatweave, plus jute and natural fibre. The best fit for your design is advised at review.