It used to be that magazines would keep the samples for the patterns they commissioned, but lately, it's more common that the samples are returned. The cynic in me says that in addition to running out of room to store dozens upon dozens of samples, magazine publishers are hoping that designers will look at the return of the sample as a form of payment, allowing them to pay a lower fee for the actual design work.
Anyway. I too am running out of room to store samples, so I've decided to sell some of them. I don't have the time to auction them off; all I really want to do is to get them to someone who will wear and enjoy them, rather than having them sit and gather dust on a shelf. So I'm charging $25 for each one, to cover the cost of packing and shipping within the U.S.
If you're interested in a particular sample, email me at [email protected] with the name of the design and your name and address I'll reply to the first email I receive for each sample with my Paypal info, and once the payment goes through, I'll put the sample in the mail. If you live outside the U.S., you can still email me, but we will have to see if we can agree on a price that covers shipping to wherever you are.
(I'm aware that this low price may make it worth someone's while to buy a sample just to reclaim the yarn-- so be it.)
Here are the samples I am selling:
Double Wing Top (even though this design was published in a book of patterns for pregnant women (it's the cover design!), it still works well as en empire-waisted top for non-pregnant women). Bust size 32".
No Gap Wrap Pullover. Bust size 47 3/4".
Wyvern Wrap. Bust size 36".
RIb & Braid Jumper. Bust size 33-36".
Laredo Vest (unisex). Chest/bust size 38".
Seaweed Vest. Bust size approx 37".