I primarily sell custom embroidered shirts. I try and always have samples of the items to show the customer. Sure it requires an investment, but IMO that is part of doing business.
I find the customers prefer and like to both see and touch the item before choosing instead of being forced to choose from a picture.
I also like to insure I am happy with the quality and style of an item, and like yourself like to test my work on a product first, before I offer it for sale.
I don't however think that is the only way to do it. If you find it easier to handle, I don't think it is unreasonable to work primarily from a catalog, especially if you want to offer hundreds of options to the customer. Personally, I like to keep the options I show a customer to a minimum. I believe I can better keep control over the entire process doing so.
I find the customers prefer and like to both see and touch the item before choosing instead of being forced to choose from a picture.
I also like to insure I am happy with the quality and style of an item, and like yourself like to test my work on a product first, before I offer it for sale.
I don't however think that is the only way to do it. If you find it easier to handle, I don't think it is unreasonable to work primarily from a catalog, especially if you want to offer hundreds of options to the customer. Personally, I like to keep the options I show a customer to a minimum. I believe I can better keep control over the entire process doing so.
