Guide To Obtaining Free Paper Samples For Designers And Print Projects

Free paper samples have long been essential tools for designers, printers, and businesses looking to evaluate paper quality before committing to larger orders. In the past, paper companies and distributors regularly distributed sample books and swatches to design agencies and studios. Today, while the landscape has evolved, numerous options remain available for obtaining paper samples at little to no cost. This guide explores the current landscape of free paper sample programs, detailing what's available, associated costs, and how to request samples for various design and printing needs.

The Evolution of Paper Sample Distribution

Historically, paper companies and distributors actively promoted their products by sending sales representatives to design agencies and studios with boxes full of sample books and brochures. These materials showcased various papers in different colors, textures, and weights, helping designers select the perfect materials for their projects. Many designers still maintain extensive collections of these sample books from companies like Mohawk, Neenah, Cranes, Hammermill, Strathmore, and French.

The current distribution model has shifted somewhat. While paper companies still produce sample books, they're often distributed more selectively. Some designers report receiving occasional sample books directly from manufacturers, though these opportunities have become less frequent than in previous decades. The salespeople who once regularly visited design studios with sample collections are less common in many areas, prompting designers to seek samples through alternative channels.

Despite these changes, paper samples remain crucial for design and printing decisions. The tactile experience of different paper weights, textures, and finishes cannot be fully replicated through digital previews alone, making physical samples an important part of the design process.

Current Options for Free Paper Samples

Several companies and printing services offer free paper samples to designers and businesses. Each program has its own specific offerings, requirements, and limitations. Understanding these differences helps designers select the most appropriate sample sources for their needs.

PaperDirect Sample Program

PaperDirect offers a free paper sample program with specific parameters and conditions. The company provides single pieces of paper products as samples, allowing designers to evaluate quality before purchasing. These samples are available with a $5 shipping or handling charge for ground shipping within the continental United States.

Key features of the PaperDirect sample program include:

• A $20 sample budget for each customer
• Most samples priced at $2 each
• Free samples up to the $20 limit
• A $5 coupon provided for future orders placed within 30 days
• Samples shipped separately via 1st Class Mail
• Average shipping time of 5 business days depending on location
• Up to 3 greeting cards available with free shipping and handling

Certain limitations apply to the PaperDirect program. Non-paper products such as trophies and wooden frames are not available as samples. Additionally, some paper products with specialty foil colors and inks may not be offered as free samples; in such cases, the base product will be shipped instead. Designers requiring specialty samples are advised to call customer service at 800.272.7377 to discuss possible accommodations.

To request samples from PaperDirect, designers must first shop for the products of interest and click the "Order Free Sample" button. This action automatically adds one item to the cart. It's important to note that not all products have free samples available, so designers should check the 'Products Included' section when selecting items.

PrintDirtCheap Sample Pack

PrintDirtCheap offers an alternative approach to paper sampling with their free pre-printed sample pack. The company emphasizes that these samples allow designers to see firsthand the quality of their work before committing to a larger order.

The PrintDirtCheap sample program includes:

• Free pre-printed sample packs
• Free USPS Priority Mail shipping to the US and Canada
• Expedited shipping options (UPS 2 Day Air or Next Day Air) available for a fee
• No payment required for standard samples

To request samples, designers must add the sample product to their cart and proceed through checkout. Although a mailing address is required to send the samples, no actual payment is processed for the standard samples. Designers can create an account or check out as a guest, but should avoid using the PayPal checkout option according to the company's instructions.

SmallBusinessPrinting Sample Collection

SmallBusinessPrinting provides an extensive range of paper products available as free samples. Their catalog includes various printed materials that designers might need for reference or evaluation.

Available sample types from SmallBusinessPrinting include:

• Appointment Cards
• Bookmarks
• Door Hangers
• Flyers
• Folded Cards
• Greeting Cards
• Hang Tags
• Holiday Cards
• Menus
• Presentation Folders
• Rack Cards
• Response Cards
• Rip Cards
• Sell Sheets
• Table Tents
• Thank You Cards
• Tickets
• Custom Orders and other specialty items

Designers with questions about the SmallBusinessPrinting sample program can contact customer service at 1-800-454-1092 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm PST).

Moo Sample Packs

Moo offers free sample packs designed to help designers "feel before you buy" their products. The company provides physical samples of their printed materials to help customers evaluate quality before placing orders.

Key features of the Moo sample program include:

• Absolutely free sample packs
• Pre-printed samples with MOO designs for demonstration purposes only
• No custom proofs or custom product samples available
• PDF preview options available for custom designs
• Only one sample pack per customer to ensure availability for others

Notably, Moo does not currently offer pre-printed samples of their Greeting Cards. For designers interested in custom products, the company provides downloadable PDF previews and email options during the design process. Additionally, Moo offers a "MOO Promise" that guarantees free reprints if customers are not 100% satisfied with their orders.

Alternative Approaches to Obtaining Paper Samples

Beyond the structured sample programs offered by specific companies, designers have several alternative methods for obtaining paper samples for their projects.

Contacting Local Printers

Many designers find success by contacting local printers directly. The paper commonly stocked by local printers can vary significantly by region, so reaching out to the specific printers you plan to work with is often the most effective approach.

When contacting local printers:

• Schedule in-person meetings when possible
• Be prepared that samples may not be completely free, though shipping and handling fees might apply
• Understand that printers may have swatch decks available for viewing but may not allow them to be removed from the shop
• Be prepared to potentially pay for specialized sample books if your own collection is needed

Paper Company Direct Contact

For specialized or premium paper samples, contacting paper companies directly may be necessary. While some companies still offer free sample programs, others may charge for their sample books and swatches.

When contacting paper companies:

• Inquire about their current sample distribution policies
• Ask about digital alternatives if physical samples are not available
• Request information about authorized distributors in your area who might have sample collections

Understanding Sample Limitations and Restrictions

Each paper sample program comes with specific limitations that designers should understand before requesting samples.

Product Restrictions

Not all paper products are available as samples across various programs. Common restrictions include:

• Specialty finishes (foil stamping, embossing, etc.)
• Non-paper items (trophies, wooden frames)
• Custom or personalized products
• Greeting cards (specifically excluded by some programs)

Quantity Limitations

Most sample programs limit the number of samples that can be requested:

• PaperDirect imposes a $20 budget limit per customer
• Moo restricts customers to one sample pack total
• Some companies may limit the number of individual items within a sample pack

Geographic Restrictions

While most sample programs ship within the continental United States, some offer international shipping with limitations:

• PrintDirtCheap ships to US and Canada via USPS Priority Mail for free
• International shipping options may incur additional fees

Best Practices for Requesting and Utilizing Paper Samples

To maximize the value obtained from paper sample programs, designers should follow several best practices:

Planning Sample Requests

• Clearly define project requirements before requesting samples
• Request samples from multiple vendors when possible for comparison
• Consider requesting samples for both current and potential future projects

Sample Organization

• Develop a systematic method for organizing received samples
• Create a reference system that includes sample sources, product codes, and relevant notes
• Document the appearance and feel of samples for future reference

Beyond Physical Samples

• Utilize digital previews and mockups when available
• Combine physical samples with digital tools for comprehensive evaluation
• Create a digital library of sample information for future reference

Conclusion

Free paper samples remain valuable resources for designers, printers, and businesses despite changes in distribution models. Several companies offer structured sample programs with varying options, costs, and limitations. PaperDirect provides samples with a $5 shipping charge and a $20 budget limit, while PrintDirtCheap offers free pre-printed sample packs via USPS Priority Mail. SmallBusinessPrinting maintains an extensive catalog of free sample types, and Moo provides absolutely free sample packs with the restriction of one per customer.

For specialized needs, designers may need to contact local printers directly or reach out to paper companies for their sample collections. Understanding the limitations of each program, including product restrictions, quantity limits, and geographic availability, helps designers make informed decisions about which samples to request.

By strategically utilizing available sample programs and developing systematic approaches to sample organization and evaluation, designers can continue to access the tactile information necessary for making informed paper selection decisions in an increasingly digital world.

Sources

1. PaperDirect Free Samples
2. Graphic Design Forum Discussion on Paper Samples
3. PrintDirtCheap Free Sample Pack
4. SmallBusinessPrinting Free Paper Samples
5. Moo Sample Packs