Check three things on the sample — handle and strap anchoring, stitch density and consistency, and dimensional accuracy against the spec — then write those same three things into the order as your acceptance criteria. Most bulk disputes are not about hidden defects; they are about criteria nobody wrote down.
On the sample
- Handle and strap anchoring. Pull hard where the strap meets the body, and look at how it is secured inside. This is the most common failure point on any bag.
- Stitch density and evenness. Handwork varies slightly by nature; what you are looking for is consistent tension across the panel, not machine perfection.
- Dimensions. Measure the bag yourself against the specification. Small differences compound when the customer compares it to your listing photo.
- Lining fit. Too tight distorts the body; too loose bunches at the base.
- Odour. A strong chemical smell from the lining is worth raising immediately.
- Weight. Weigh it. It is both a density check and your freight input.
Write the criteria into the order
Turn what you checked into acceptance criteria in the order confirmation: the approved sample as the reference, a tolerance on the finished dimensions, the label placement, and the packing. Vague language — 'good quality', 'same as sample' — is what turns a small problem into an argument, because 'same as sample' has no tolerance attached.
On the bulk
- Compare a random handful against the approved sample, not against the photos.
- Check dimensions on several pieces and look at the spread, not just the average.
- Check label placement and print position across colorways — this is where drift shows up.
- Load-test one bag the way the customer will use it.
- Check the packing and carton marking against what your warehouse needs.
When to bring in a third party
For a first order with a new supplier, or any order large enough that a re-work would hurt, a third-party inspection before shipment is cheap insurance. Tell the factory up front that you will inspect — a supplier who is comfortable with it is telling you something useful, and so is one who is not.
Our specifications for each style — material, size, weight, colorways — are published on every style page, for example the embroidered openwork knit shoulder bag, so you can check the sample against the same numbers we produce to. More on the collection at crochet and knitted bags.
Lovy approves a sample before bulk on every order, and keeps the approved specification on file so repeats match the first run.
FAQ
Should I pay for a sample?+
Usually yes, and it is worth it. A paid sample means the factory produces it properly rather than pulling something close enough off a shelf.
What tolerance is reasonable on handmade bags?+
Small variation is inherent to handwork. Agree a tolerance in centimetres with your supplier rather than expecting identical pieces.
Can I inspect before payment?+
Payment terms and inspection timing are negotiated per order. Raise both in the first conversation rather than at the end.