Free Paper Samples How To Obtain Mohawk And Other Paper Swatchbooks For Design And Printing Projects

Oct. 16, 2025, 5:24 a.m.

Tags: paper mohawk

Paper sampling has long been an essential part of the design and printing process, allowing designers and print buyers to physically evaluate paper quality, color, texture, and weight before committing to larger quantities. In the past, paper companies and distributors freely provided sample books and swatches to design agencies and printing studios. Today, while the landscape has evolved, several options remain available for obtaining free paper samples, including those from well-known brands like Mohawk Fine Papers.

Historical Context of Paper Sampling

Historically, paper companies and distributors employed sales representatives who would visit design agencies and studios with boxes containing expensive marketing books and brochures showcasing various paper options. These professionals provided designers with comprehensive sample books from brands such as Mohawk, Neenah, Cranes, Hammermill, Strathmore, French, and others. These sample books allowed designers to evaluate papers in precisely the right colors with ideal textures, which was an integral part of the design process. Many designers from that era still possess these decades-old paper sample collections, which have become valuable reference materials. The practice of paper sampling evolved as the industry changed, with fewer sales representatives making personal visits but companies continuing to provide samples through different channels.

Current Options for Free Paper Samples

Mohawk Fine Papers Samples

Mohawk Fine Papers offers the Loop and Options product lines, which provide a range of print surfaces with a palette of whites and other earthy fiber colors. The company produces sample swatchbooks and professional graphics tools under the Options brand. While the specific availability of free Mohawk samples is not clearly detailed in the provided sources, historical practices suggest that paper companies have previously distributed such materials freely to design professionals. The Loop/Options sample swatchbook (SKU: 3-LOOP-OPTIONS) appears to be a professional product, though its current availability is listed as "TBD" in the source material. This uncertainty regarding availability may indicate that some paper sample programs have been affected by industry changes or business decisions, which is not uncommon in the paper industry where product lines and distribution methods can shift relatively quickly.

Other Brand Sample Sources

Beyond Mohawk, numerous other paper manufacturers have historically provided sample books and swatches. Brands like Neenah, Cranes, Hammermill, Strathmore, and French were mentioned in the source material as companies that distributed sample materials in the past. While the current availability of free samples from these specific brands is not detailed in the provided sources, the general pattern suggests that paper companies continue to provide sample materials, though potentially with different distribution methods than in previous decades. Some companies may require registration on their websites, while others might distribute samples through trade shows, print shops, or direct mail campaigns. The variety of paper types available through these channels typically includes text papers, cover stocks, specialty papers, and recycled options, catering to different printing needs and design preferences.

Obtaining Samples from Local Printers

One approach to obtaining free paper samples involves establishing relationships with local print shops. According to the source material, reaching out to the printer that will eventually be used for a project may yield free samples, particularly if an in-person meeting is scheduled. However, the sources note that "free may not be an option, unless the printer is local and you schedule an in-person meeting." Even when samples are provided free of charge, there might be associated shipping and handling fees. Print shops typically maintain physical sample collections that clients can examine during consultations, but these reference materials generally remain on the premises.

Printers typically maintain swatch decks in their shops to show clients various paper options, but they generally do not allow these reference materials to be removed from the premises. For designers who wish to keep their own samples for future reference, contacting paper companies directly may be necessary, though this could potentially involve purchasing the sample materials. Some printers offer sample subscription services or regularly update their sample collections, making it worthwhile for designers to visit print shops periodically to review new paper options and discontinued items that might still be available in the market.

Online Sources for Free Paper Samples

Several online sources for free paper samples were mentioned in the source material. Smartpress was specifically noted as offering free sample books that can be ordered at no cost. Additionally, Small Business Printing offers free paper swatch samples for various paper products including 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, and custom orders. Their customer service can be reached at 1-800-454-1092 (Monday-Friday, 9-5 PST) for inquiries about sample availability.

Online sampling has become increasingly prevalent as more companies establish digital storefronts and distribution networks. Some paper manufacturers offer virtual sample libraries alongside physical sampling options, allowing designers to preview papers digitally before requesting physical samples. The combination of online accessibility and traditional sampling methods provides a comprehensive approach to paper selection in the modern design environment. It's worth noting that online sample requests typically require providing business information, project details, and sometimes proof of professional affiliation, as paper companies aim to distribute samples to genuine industry professionals rather than casual collectors.

Building Relationships for Sample Access

The source material emphasizes the importance of professional relationships in obtaining paper samples. One designer noted that "local printers I work with will frequently give me older books of paper, swatches, foil, etc. once you build up a relationship." This suggests that consistent business and professional rapport with printing vendors can lead to access to sample materials, including older or discontinued sample books that might otherwise be unavailable through standard channels. Printers often receive sample materials from paper companies and may have duplicates or older editions that they are willing to part with, especially when maintaining good relationships with their clients.

Networking within the design and printing community can also yield valuable sample resources. Industry events, trade shows, and professional organizations often provide opportunities to connect with paper representatives and other designers who may be willing to share or trade sample materials. Additionally, some designers participate in sample exchange networks or online communities where they can obtain hard-to-find paper samples or duplicate books that they might use for multiple projects.

Considerations When Ordering Paper Samples

When seeking paper samples, several considerations should be kept in mind:

Regional Variations: What papers are common in one location may not be available in another. It's important to source samples that reflect what local printers actually carry. Paper distribution can vary significantly by region, with certain brands and paper types being more prevalent in specific geographic areas. Designers should research which papers are commonly stocked by local print shops to ensure the samples they obtain will be readily available for production.
Sample Currency: Paper lines and products change over time. Some sample books may contain discontinued papers, as noted in the source material: "Old swatch books tend to have a lot of 'Discontinued' in them too." Designers should be aware of the publication date of sample materials and verify current paper availability before making final selections. Some companies indicate the date of their sample books, while others may require checking individual paper specifications on the manufacturer's website.
Professional Purpose: Paper is considered part of job considerations in professional design work. For certain projects, specialty papers might need to be ordered specifically for that job. Designers should anticipate paper requirements during the planning phase of projects and order samples well in advance to allow time for evaluation and potential reordering of specific papers.
Cost Considerations: While some samples are free, others may involve shipping and handling fees or direct purchase costs. Designers should factor these potential costs into their project budgets and sample acquisition strategies. Some companies offer free samples but charge for expedited shipping, while others may provide complimentary shipping for bulk sample requests.
Sample Types: Different types of samples may be available, including individual swatches, small sample sheets, or complete sample books that provide comprehensive overviews of a brand's offerings. Understanding the different sample formats and their respective advantages can help designers select the most appropriate sampling method for their specific needs. Individual swatches are useful for color matching, while sample books provide context for how different papers work together in a collection.
Storage and Organization: As designers accumulate samples over time, establishing an organized system for storing and retrieving them becomes increasingly important. Some designers categorize samples by paper type, weight, color family, or project type, while others maintain digital inventories of their physical sample collections for easier reference.

Conclusion

Obtaining free paper samples, particularly from established brands like Mohawk Fine Papers, requires navigating a landscape that has evolved from the era when sales representatives freely distributed comprehensive sample books. While direct access to free samples may be more limited today, several options remain available, including ordering from specific companies like Smartpress, contacting local printers with whom relationships have been established, and potentially accessing materials through online sources like Small Business Printing. Designers and print buyers should be mindful of regional variations in paper availability, the potential age of sample materials, and the importance of professional relationships in accessing sample resources. By understanding these factors and exploring multiple channels, professionals can still obtain the physical paper samples necessary for informed decision-making in their design and printing projects.