When a client requests a price for a fabric with a foil-printed floral design, weighing a total of 300 grams, the sales representative at Haida, drawing from previous experience, assumes that this is suede-like velvet with foil printing combined with single-sided velvet, and quotes a price of $1.90 per meter.
However, just as the sales rep was ready to dive into deeper discussions about the order, they were hit with a reality check—a bucket of cold water.
The client replied saying the price was too high and sent a screenshot showing that the recently confirmed order was priced at only $1.30 per meter.
Although the fabrics look similar, how could the prices be so different? In an era of transparent information and overcapacity, does price gouging still exist? In this article, Haida Jacquard will explain the reasons behind the price differences.
Fabric Type
Even though the two products seem quite similar, there are significant differences in the fabric types. One is made of faux cotton velvet, while the other is suede-like velvet (also known as micro-suede or microsuede).
Although both fabrics may have the same weight, the cost per meter will vary significantly due to the different materials. For example, the price of suede-like velvet can be 3 yuan more per meter than faux cotton velvet.
Moreover, some clients mistakenly confuse faux suede with Dutch velvet, especially after printing. The differences can be hard to distinguish by sight alone, but even with the cheapest dyeing process for Dutch velvet, the price can still be 50 cents more per meter compared to faux suede.
Dyeing and Finishing Processes
Even if two fabrics are printed with the same floral pattern, the dyeing and finishing processes can cause significant price variation.
For instance, one version of the fabric might be made from raw white fabric (un-dyed), making it more prone to exposing the underlying white material when brushed or sheared. On the other hand, the other version may undergo a proper dyeing process, which results in better color fastness and durability.
This difference in processing can lead to a price difference of 1.5 to 2 yuan per meter.
Base Fabric Type
Another common confusion occurs with the base fabric. Some customers confuse non-faux cotton with single-sided velvet. While the color and thickness may appear similar, the feel and texture of the fabric are clearly different. Single-sided velvet has a much higher quality feel, and the per kilogram price difference can be as much as 6 yuan.
Conclusion: Why Fabric Prices Are Not Always Straightforward
In summary, the price differences stem from the fact that insufficient information was provided. Simply observing the general appearance of a fabric is not enough to calculate an accurate price.
To get the most accurate quote, the best approach is to send us a sample. Haida’s professional sales team can then calculate a competitive price and arrange for high-quality samples that match the required specifications.
In the end, when it comes to fabric pricing, it’s essential to remember that what you see is not always what you get. The type of fabric, finishing process, and even base materials can make a huge difference in the final cost.
