You can save up to 75% off of retail when you buy fabrics that are irregulars, seconds, or closeouts. Irregulars and closeouts are first quality goods that
are not damaged or flawed in any way. They represent the best bargains in fabrics. Seconds are fabrics which are flawed in some way. However, since the
law requires that even fabrics with very tiny flaws must be sold as seconds, you will be able to find many second-quality fabrics which have flaws that can
be trimmed out or will be completely unnoticable when your home furnishings are completed.
- Irregulars
These are products which are in new condition and are not damaged in any way, but do not match the samples which are on display in stores or shown by
salespeople. For instance, a fabric manufacturer may make up a batch of fabric which comes out in a darker shade than the sample. It cannot be shipped
to customers because it does not match the sample they ordered from. However, there is nothing wrong with the fabric itself. Irregulars are usually
available at half price (75% off retail).
You will normally find irregulars at factory outlets.
- Seconds
These are second-quality goods that are flawed in some way. There may be a tiny hole or snag on the fabric, or there may be a small patch on which the
dye did not adhere properly. These flaws are usually very small, and may be completely unnoticable when your home furnishings have been made up.
If you are having pillows or other small items made, the workroom may be able to cut around the flaw. If you are having upholstery done, the upholsterer
may be able to place the flaw on the back side of the furniture. Do be sure to consult with your workroom or upholsterer before purchasing second quality
fabrics to make sure that the flaws can be cut out or hidden.
Often, these flaws can be prevented from detracting from the appearance of your home furnishings in any way, but you can still enjoy the savings (normally
50% off of the discounted price, or 75% off of retail). You will normally find seconds at factory outlets.
- Closeouts
These fabrics are leftovers from the previous season which are no longer worth advertising. Sometimes, these are referred to as "discontinued". Almost
every fabric manufacturer has closeout fabrics. These are in new condition, but are not worth advertising because only a small quantity remains and because
most manufacturers do not want to be seen advertising last year's products.
You will normally find closeouts at factory outlets. These are also usually marked down to half price (75% off retail).
