Use this checklist before adding a new fiber art supplier to your retail shop, online store or workshop program.
Reliable suppliers make it easy for buyers to compare categories, minimums, lead times and reorder policies. The table below can be copied into your own purchasing spreadsheet.
| Category | What to ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-dyed wool | MOQ, dye lots, bundle sizes, swatches | Prevents color mismatch and stock gaps |
| Patterns | Class-use permission, finished size, image rights | Important for workshops and online listings |
| Tools | Case quantity, warranty, replacement parts | Reduces buyer support problems |
| Kits | Included materials, packaging, barcode options | Improves retail display and repeat ordering |
| Shipping | Lead time, carton weight, international availability | Critical for wholesale planning |
Price is only one part of supplier fit. Review whether the product range matches your customers, whether reorders are realistic and how much staff work is needed before an item can be displayed or sold online.
Add freight, duties where applicable, payment fees, packaging labor and expected waste to the wholesale price. For kits and bundles, include the time needed to inspect, label or assemble components. A lower unit price may produce a weaker margin if the order requires substantial preparation or has a high damage rate.
Use a focused opening order to assess communication, packing, product consistency and customer response. Record promised and actual lead times. Test tools, complete one kit and compare wool to supplier photography before expanding the relationship.
Maintain contact details, order dates, terms, stock codes, lot information and issue history in one place. This helps staff reorder accurately and gives the supplier specific information when a replacement or correction is needed.
Suppliers serving fiber art retailers can provide company, category, MOQ and contact information through the directory form.