Buyer guide · Sampling
The rug sampling process, from brief to approved sample
Send a brief and we sign an NDA first. We make a sample or strike-off in 5 to 20 days, you review and approve it, and the sampling cost is credited against your order. After a purchase order, bulk production takes 8 to 16 weeks from sample approval.
Last updated: 30 October 2026
From brief to approved sample
- NDA. We sign a non-disclosure agreement as standard, at no cost, before you share any designs.
- Brief. You send your design, construction, materials, size and estimated quantity.
- Sampling proposal. We confirm what we can produce and the sampling lead time for your construction.
- Sample or strike-off. We weave or tuft the sample to your specification. This typically takes 5 to 20 days.
- Review. You review the sample, and revisions can be made at this stage.
- Approval. You approve the sample. It becomes the reference for bulk production and final inspection.
- Purchase order. You issue a PO and bulk production begins, typically 8 to 16 weeks.
Swatches laid out for review
What sampling costs, conceptually
A sample is a real piece made on a real loom, so it carries a cost. That cost depends on the construction, size, number of colours and design complexity, and we quote it for your brief. Sampling cost is credited against your order, so if you go on to order, the sample is part of the order and not an extra.
We do not publish per-sample or per-square-foot prices. Ask through the quote form below.
What to send us
- A drawing, CAD file, reference image or physical sample of the design.
- Colour references: a Pantone reference, a swatch or a photograph. We can dye to match.
- The construction you want, or the look you want, and we will advise.
- Size, shape and pile preference.
- Your estimated first quantity and target market.
How long each stage takes
Sampling takes 5 to 20 days depending on construction complexity, the number of colours and current studio capacity. Bulk production runs 8 to 16 weeks from sample approval. Lead times are confirmed on your quote. See rug specifications for typical construction ranges and how to order for the full sequence.
Approvals and what happens after
Production does not begin until you have approved the sample and issued a purchase order. Finished pieces are inspected against the approved sample for dimensions, colour, pile height and surface quality before packing. If you want a physical sample of an existing design before briefing a custom one, see the sample program.
New to this? Read how to start a rug brand, or use the rug manufacturer checklist to compare suppliers on how they handle sampling. Before you approve, read how to read a rug quote and approve a sample.
Send your sampling 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
Rug sampling: your questions
How long does rug sampling take?
Typically 5 to 20 days, depending on the construction, the number of colours and current studio capacity. We confirm the lead time when we receive your brief.
Do I pay for samples?
Samples carry a cost, quoted for your brief. The sampling cost is credited against your order, so it is not an additional charge if you go on to order.
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.
What should I send for a custom sample?
A drawing, CAD file, reference image or physical sample, colour references, your preferred construction and size, and your estimated quantity. A rough brief is enough to start.
Will you keep my designs confidential?
Yes. We sign a non-disclosure agreement as standard, before you share designs, at no cost.
Can I request changes to a sample?
Yes. Revisions can be made at the sample stage, before any production commitment.
How long after approval is bulk delivery?
Bulk production takes 8 to 16 weeks from sample approval. Shipping time is additional and depends on the Incoterm and destination.