Upholstered Bed Sampling Process: 6 Steps from Brief to Approved Sample
A sample is the reference your bulk order is built and inspected against. This guide explains the upholstered bed sampling process we use in our factory in Foshan, what to send at each step and how to review a sample before you approve bulk production.
Why the upholstered bed sampling process matters
For an upholstered bed, small differences add up: headboard height, the thickness of the padding, the direction of a fabric’s pile or the shade of a leather batch. A drawing cannot show all of these. An approved sample fixes them in one physical reference that our development team, frame workshop, sewing room and quality control all work from.
Step 1: Send a clear brief
Tell us the model or design reference, the mattress size, the cover material and colour, the market you sell in and an estimated quantity. For OEM development, add drawings or reference photos. If the bed will carry your own brand (private label), say so at the start. Our OEM & ODM for Brands page explains which details matter for a private-label project.
Step 2: Agree the specification
We turn the brief into a written specification: overall dimensions, headboard height, frame and base construction, padding, cover material and stitching, plus packing. Each size or cover variation is listed separately. The sample is made to this written specification, not to a photo.
Step 3: Bed sample development in our factory
Our development and sampling team builds the sample with the same departments that make bulk orders: the frame workshop led by our in-house master craftsmen, cutting and sewing, and upholstery. We photograph the finished sample from several angles and share the photos for review. You are also welcome to see the sample in our showroom in Foshan. Meet the departments on Our Team.
Step 4: Review the sample against the specification
Check the sample against the written specification, not against memory. A useful review covers:
- Dimensions: overall length and width, headboard height and mattress fit.
- Cover: colour, texture, seam positions and stitching.
- Padding: the feel and shape of the headboard.
- Frame and base: stability, hardware and slats.
- Details: corners, piping, legs or floating base.
- Packing: carton count and protection for export.
Step 5: Confirm changes in writing
If something needs to change, record it in the specification and decide whether a revised sample is needed. Small adjustments can often be confirmed by photo; changes to shape or construction usually justify a new sample. Every change is written down before bulk production, so the factory and your team work from the same version.
Step 6: Approve the sample and start bulk production
After you approve the sample and the specification, bulk production is scheduled. Custom models take 30–40 days from approval; standard models from our collections take about 20 days. Our quality control team checks finished beds against the approved sample at the final inspection stations before packing. See our quality checks and supplier test reports.
Furniture sample approval checklist
Before you approve a sample, make sure you have:
- The written specification, with a version date.
- Photos of the approved sample from every side.
- The cover reference: swatch, colour code or batch.
- The carton plan and the agreed labels.
- The lead time and trade term (EXW, FOB or FCA) in the quotation.
Frequently asked questions
When does bulk production start?
After the specification and sample are approved. Custom models then take 30–40 days and standard models about 20 days.
Can I approve a sample by photo?
Yes, we share photos of every sample. You can also review it in person in our showroom in Foshan.
Do I need a sample for a standard model?
Not always. For a catalogue model in a listed cover, the product photos and specification may be enough; for a new cover or size, a sample is recommended.
What is the minimum order after sampling?
20 sets per order, and models can be mixed.
Ready to plan an order? Request a quotation with your models, sizes, covers and quantities, or read how upholstered bed pricing is calculated.
