[wayne zabel]

Has anyone ever asked carpet shops or fitters for off cuts or samples and if so  what has their reaction been.

I need to start playing about and experimenting with chemicals and kit at home before I start to trade.

Does this seem a good idea and has anyone else done it?

Ive done 2 courses but need hands on experience now.

[derek west]

there actually very helpful, well the one i approached was. i was told to come back on a friday when they clear out old samples, not sure if thats the same everywhere. got a BW  an axey and a cream poly last time i went. good fun experimenting, you learn a lot.
derek

[Mike Osbourne]

Like Derek says most will be fine, they chuck stuff out by the skip full.

I would advise maybe going in and asking them for some cards and say occasionally you see a carpet which is beyond cleaning (which you will). Ask them what customers they would want areas etc.

This not only sets you up for remnants, but far more profitable a relationship between the two of you.

My suggestion is visit all the small family run ones and settle on a couple who are keen and will genuinely do good work. 

[Kinver_Clean]

Good idea. I get 30% of my new work from a supplier/fitter.
I scrounged some offcuts and samples quite a few years ago.
One tip- put stuff on the carpet and then leave it for a couple of weeks before you play with it. Then try the spray 'stain removers' and then try getting the marks out.
It is all very interesting.

Trevor

[Len Gribble]

Shouldn’t be a problem asking I always get the whipped ones.

Len

[Jason Ryan]

Simular to the rest of replys, ones i asked were fine and game me the off cuts (went early to get the preivious days cuts before they throw). A mate of mine is a fitter and also gives me some old shop samples and has got me the odd job.

J

[Mike Osbourne]

That's a good point Len makes.

Get the whipped ones then you will never have to buy another door mat again.


Yet another TIP

If you ask really nicely you might get some old samples. These will have the label on them for identification and blend.

Go to carpet shops and furniture shops regularly to see what's coming in, you will be cleaning them in a year or two.

[Gerry Styles]

My supplier always has loads os samples. I take some off him from time to time. I will be at NCCA Spot & Stain Course on 23rd and will have some with me then