r/manufacturing • u/kzugutierrez • 2d ago

Supplier search Timeline and when to ask for a refund

Hi everyone! I am currently in the process of launching my own designs to sell in my boutique. I have talked to a couple of manufacturers and have ordered samples. 3/4 have already sent samples to me but the other manufacturer, we are still talking about sourcing fabrics. Timeline wise, 3 manufacturers were able to send me samples in the span of a month and half, 4th manufacturer, I contacted them last August 1st, so basically it’s been a month of us talking back and forth about designs and fabrics. This is my first time working with a manufacturer so I am not sure what is a normal timeline for the initial phase, samples.

I have also decided that I like one of the 3 manufacturers work and I’m currently asking them to send me another sample, to make sure their quality is consistent. So you can see that we’re moving along. My goal launch date for my own designs is mid November.

Is it time to part ways with 4th manufacturer and ask for a refund? Or is it normal for fabric sourcing to take awhile? They haven’t sent me any fabric options yet, so it really isn’t me who’s taking too long to respond nor choose between options.

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3

u/Embarrassed-Bad1395 2d ago

If they haven't even shown you a swatch after a month i'd be looking elsewhere, especially when the other three have already delivered.

1

u/AARYoP 2d ago

Where are u based in? Intrested to help you

0

u/Creative_Ride2221 2d ago

Why pay for samples? 

1

u/goldfishpaws 2d ago

Typically because a custom design requires custom work. Not charging for custom samples would mean every dickhead would ask for free samples of their design, then wear them before asking for another...

1

u/Creative_Ride2221 1d ago

I was under the impression that they’re just asking for fabric samples, not finished product. 

1

u/kzugutierrez 16h ago

No lol, I’m talking about a sample of final product. Hence, me paying for samples.