If you’ve ever attended h+h americas Spring Edition, you already know there’s one moment that feels like the unofficial spark of the entire show, Sample It. At the Fall Edition in Houston, this exclusive evening shopping event returns on Wednesday, September 30 from 7:30–9:00 PM at the Reliant Center (formerly NRG Center), and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated experiences of the season.

Whether you’re a shop owner, designer, educator, or trade buyer, Sample It is your chance to get hands-on with new products before the show floor opens. It’s fast-paced, inspiring, and packed with opportunities to discover what your customers will be asking for next.

What Makes Sample It So Special?

Sample It isn’t just a shopping event — it’s a curated, high-energy marketplace where retailers and exhibitors meet in a relaxed, cash‑and‑carry setting. You can browse, buy, and take home products that same night, giving you a head start on planning store samples, class projects, and seasonal merchandising.

Here’s why attendees call it a can’t‑miss experience:

  • Early access to new and featured products See fresh fabric lines, yarn collections, notions, kits, and tools before they hit the wider market.
  • A low‑risk way to test new vendors Pick up small assortments without committing to a full wholesale order. Bring them back to your shop and gauge customer interest before investing further.
  • A relaxed, intimate environment Meet exhibitors one-on-one, ask questions, and explore products without the bustle of the full expo hall.
  • Limited quantities = real excitement Some of the season’s most talked-about items make their debut here — and they often sell out quickly. Experienced attendees arrive early and shop with intention.
  • Instant inspiration Retailers swap ideas, compare finds, and leave buzzing with creative plans and inspiration.

How Sample It Works

Sample It takes place immediately after the Expo Hall Show Preview Party, making it the perfect way to roll from networking into product discovery.

Admission Options:

  • Early Bird: $12
  • Standard: $15
  • Craft Industry Alliance Members: Free

Once inside, you’ll find participating exhibitors offering products for direct purchase, no waiting, no shipping, no minimums. Just grab what inspires you and take it home.

Who Should Attend?

Sample It is designed for anyone in the craft industry who wants a first look at what’s new:

  • Retailers looking to stock fresh inventory or build store samples
  • Designers sourcing materials for upcoming patterns or classes
  • Educators planning workshops and seasonal programming
  • Trade buyers scouting trends before the show floor opens

If you thrive on discovering new products early — or simply love the thrill of a curated shopping experience — Sample It is your event.

A Night of Community + Discovery

One of the best parts of Sample It is the atmosphere. It’s lively, collaborative, and full of conversation. You’ll see shop owners comparing finds, designers sharing ideas, and exhibitors introducing products that will shape the season ahead.

It’s the kind of evening that reminds you why this industry is so special — creative, supportive, and always evolving.

Mark Your Calendar

Sample It at h+h americas Fall Edition 2026 📍 Reliant Center (formerly NRG Center), Houston 🗓️ Wednesday, September 30 ⏰ 7:30 PM–9:00 PM 🎟️ Early Bird $12 • Standard $15 • CIA Members Free

Arrive early, bring your shopping bags, and get ready to discover the products your customers will be asking for next!