Material samples and prototypes answer different questions. To see and feel a sheet, order a sample. To check fit, stability or engraving readability, have a part made from your own file.
What a sample shows
You can assess colour, gloss, transparency, texture and feel. Compare samples in the light and against the background of their use. Natural materials can still vary between sheets.
Use material samples to compare one or more variants.
What needs testing in your design?
A sample does not show whether a slot fits, a display stands firmly or small text engraves clearly. Test the same shape, material and thickness as the final product.
You may not need the complete product. A strip with several slots or the finest section of a pattern may be enough. A complete construction can benefit from a full trial set to check assembly and quantities.
When can you order directly?
If the same design has already been approved in the same material variant, another trial may add little. If thickness, joint, engraving or use changes, identify which property needs checking again.
From trial to production run
Update the source file and give the final version a clear name. Order from that version. Read about choosing a test batch size or see series and repeat production.