Fabworks Online Sample Service
Can I order samples?
Yes, samples are available at Fabworks Online for all products that have a Cut Length option. Exceptions include fabrics that are sold in panels or with a dedicated cutting line.
What size are the samples?
Each sample is 12cm x 20cm and costs £2.00 (there are a few exceptions where samples are £1.00 or 50p each).
Why do I have to pay for my samples?
All our samples are priced at £2.00 unless otherwise stated. These prices help to cover our staff time, postage costs and the cost of the fabric. We would love to be able to offer samples for free, but it is simply not an option.
Can I send my samples back?
We regret that we cannot accept returns of samples. You may be entitled to a refund of the cost of your sample if the product's Cut Length option is sold out on the day that Samples are delivered.
Why should I order samples?
We strongly advise ordering samples. Ordering samples is a good way of examining fabric. It will allow you to gauge the colour accurately, feel the texture and see how the fabric handles. This is advisable if you don't know whether a particular fabric is suitable for your project. Please note that if you order cut length fabrics we do not accept returns unless the goods are faulty or mis-sold.
It's clear that a one metre length of fabric is a lot better value for money than paying £1.00 for a sample, no matter its price. However, sampling is definitely advisable if you're trying to decide between different colours and weights of fabric.
If you know exactly what you want, you can order a Cut Length of fabric instead of a sample (12cm x 20cm), with the Cut Length acting as a larger scale sample, this will allow you the opportunity to look at the drape and handle of the fabric, which can’t be done with a sample that is 12cm x 20cm. Also, ordering a Cut Length of a fabric that has a very large pattern repeat will allow you to see and appreciate the design properly more so than if you purchase a sample.
At Fabworks, you'd be amazed at what you can do with one metre of fabric – so even if you do buy a short length of fabric, we're sure it won't go to waste!
UK Sample Shipping:
Shipping for all sample orders to UK addresses is FREE. At the checkout select Free Sample Shipping for free delivery of your samples.
How are sample orders delivered to UK addresses?
Sample orders to UK addresses are sent in a stamped envelope by Royal Mail. These are not tracked. Due to Royal Mail delays, please allow up to 8 working days for delivery. If your samples haven’t arrived after 8 working days from despatch, contact us and we’ll resend the order.
Are there any exceptions for UK sample orders?
Yes. If your sample-only order totals £12 or more and your address is on the UK mainland*, your samples will be sent by courier instead of Royal Mail. All orders sent to UK mainland addresses with a courier are tracked and usually delivered the next working day.** Delivery is still free, and £12 is the minimum spend to qualify for this courier service. If you need your samples sooner, you can either pay for shipping, or increase your Sample order value to £12 or more.
- * “UK mainland” excludes Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands, and the Scottish Islands. Refer to UK Shipping Info page for further details.
- ** Next working day delivery, if order is placed before 1:30pm UK time. Refer Shipping Info page for further details.
International Sample Shipping:
How are sample orders delivered outside the UK?
All international sample orders are sent by courier — no exceptions.
These are not tracked. Please allow up to 20 working days for all international sample orders to be delivered. If your samples haven’t arrived after 20 working days from despatch, contact us and we’ll resend the order.
There is no tracking for sample orders so we cannot give guaranteed delivery dates. All international sample orders are booked with the courier within 48 hours of receipt of order (Mon-Fri only).
Shipping costs for all sample orders to countries outside the UK will incur the necessary shipping costs, please see the International Sample Shipping Index below. For more information on International Shipping, please refer to the page dedicated to your shipping zone. Shipping costs for sample orders is non-refundable and not part of the Shipping Deposit on international orders.
International Sample Shipping Index
| Country: | Sample Shipping Cost: |
| Asia | £8.00 |
| Australia | £7.00 |
| British Isles | £3.00 |
| Canada | £6.00 |
| EU | £5.00 |
| New Zealand | £7.00 |
| Non-EU Europe | £5.00 |
| South America | £8.00 |
| USA | £5.00 |