Can I request samples before placing a bulk linen clothing order?
Can I Request Samples Before Placing a Bulk Linen Clothing Order?
Yes, absolutely. Sampling is standard practice in B2B apparel sourcing — and at Linenwind, it is a required step before any first-time bulk production run. We offer three tiers of samples depending on where you are in your buying journey: free fabric swatches (up to 10 pieces), existing-style evaluation samples, and fully custom pre-production counter samples made to your exact tech pack. Sample costs range from free to USD 150 per piece and are fully credited back on your first bulk order of the same style.
Three Types of Samples We Offer
Fabric Swatches
Free
A5-sized swatches of our standard linen collection: 30+ colors across 5 fabric weights (100–260 gsm). Includes pure linen, linen-cotton, linen-rayon, and linen-viscose blends.
- Up to 10 swatches per request
- Shipped in 2–3 business days
- No cost, no obligation
- Best for: fabric feel, color accuracy, drape evaluation
Existing Style Sample
$40–$80
Finished garments from our showroom collection representing our most popular designs and construction methods. Evaluate sewing quality, finishing, and garment construction before designing your custom styles.
- Refundable with bulk order
- Ships in 3–5 business days
- Express delivery available
- Best for: quality benchmarking, construction assessment
Custom Pre-Production Sample
$60–$150
Made to your exact tech pack — including spec sheet, construction details, trim specifications, and reference images. Our pattern makers create a counter sample cut from your selected fabric using your specified measurements.
- Required for first-time custom orders
- Lead time: 7–12 days from confirmed tech pack
- Full cost refunded on bulk order for same style
- Multi-size at 50% discount on additional sizes
How to Order a Custom Sample: 8-Step Process
Submit Your Tech Pack
Upload your spec sheet, sketches or reference images, fabric preference, color requirements, and trim specifications through our inquiry form. Include target sizes and grading requirements (typically XS–XL or S–2XL).
Receive a Sample Quotation
Our production team reviews your tech pack and provides a cost estimate within 1–2 business days, including sample cost, estimated lead time, shipping options, and any clarifications needed.
Confirm & Pay
Approve the quotation and submit payment. We begin pattern development immediately. For first-time clients, a 50% deposit may be required before pattern cutting begins, with balance due before shipment.
Pattern Development 3–5 days
Our pattern maker grades your design, creates the prototype pattern, and prepares cutting markers. We cross-check measurements against our standard blocks and adjust for linen's natural shrinkage and drape characteristics.
Sample Sewing 4–6 days
The sample is cut, sewn, and finished with your specified trims. A preliminary quality check includes seam strength testing and measurement verification against your spec sheet tolerances (typically ±0.5 cm for critical measurements).
Fit Review & Documentation
We send high-resolution photos, a detailed measurement report, and optionally a video fit evaluation. For international buyers, this replaces in-person fitting. We document any recommended adjustments to pattern or construction.
Ship the Sample
Shipped via express courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS). Typical transit: 3–7 business days. Tracking number provided. We recommend scheduling a fit evaluation within 48 hours of receiving the sample.
Approve or Revise
Review and approve the sample for production, or request specific revisions. Each revision round adds 5–8 days. Most first-time styles require 0–1 revision before the sample is approved for bulk production.
Sample Cost & Refund Policy
| Sample Type | Cost | Refund Policy | Lead Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabric Swatches | Free (up to 10) | N/A — free sample | 2–3 business days | Color & fabric evaluation |
| Existing Style Sample | $40–$80 / piece | Fully refundable with bulk order | 3–5 business days | Quality & construction assessment |
| Custom Pre-Production Sample | $60–$150 / piece | Fully refundable with bulk order for same style | 7–12 business days | Fit approval & production sign-off |
| Additional Size (Multi-size grading) | 50% discount on extra sizes | Same as primary sample | Adds 2–3 days | Fit grading verification |
| Rush Sample Service | +30% surcharge | Not refundable | 4–7 business days total | Urgent timelines |
Refund terms: sample cost is deducted from your first production invoice for the same style within 12 months. We accept PayPal, wire transfer, and credit card for sample payments. For multi-style orders, each style's sample cost is credited to its respective production run.
Sample Evaluation Checklist — What to Verify Before Approving Production
A well-executed pre-production sample answers these critical questions before you commit to bulk manufacturing:
Shipping & Delivery Timeline
Shipping cost: $25–$50 depending on destination and package weight. Multiple samples can be shipped together in one package to reduce cost. All shipments include tracking numbers and we recommend selecting a courier that supports pre-clearance customs processing to avoid import delays.
- Skipping the sampling stage — Going directly to bulk production without sample approval increases the risk of costly specification errors, sizing mismatches, and quality disputes.
- Incomplete tech packs — Missing measurements, unclear construction details, or ambiguous trim specifications lead to inaccurate first samples and additional revision cycles.
- Rushing sample approval — Approving samples without thorough fit evaluation may result in production garments that don't meet your market's expectations.
- Ignoring linen-specific behavior — Linen shrinks 3–5% on first wash, drapes differently than cotton or polyester, and requires specific seam and hemming techniques.
Ready to Start Your Sampling Process?
Request free fabric swatches or submit your tech pack for a custom pre-production sample. Our sampling team responds within 24 hours with a detailed quotation and timeline.
Last updated: July 2026. Sample pricing and lead times reflect Linenwind's current sampling capacity. Custom samples with complex embellishments or specialized finishing may require extended lead times and adjusted pricing. Contact us for current sample scheduling availability.