Free samples are primarily intended to show customers the texture and colour on a particular fabric. Samples are typically 5 inches square which in the vast majority of cases is sufficient (most of our competitors send smaller samples and most also charge for this). We have a few designs which are much larger scale as is the case here, and it is impossible to send samples showing every component element, short of making samples at least one foot square. This is possible of course, but were we to offer free samples on this scale then our prices would have to be adjusted to take account of this - free sampling is already a major cost to our business which customers appreciate.
We make every effort to ensure that at least something from each element is visible, even on a regular sized cutting, but this is not always possible. Our jumbo sample service is designed to specifically tackle this issue - these are full width by 10 inches deep and will show the full repeat of any large design. In this case had the customer asked for more cuttings taken from other parts of the design we would have happily sent more out.
Tim Kennedy - Owner Modelli Fabrics
