Free Mat Board Sample Programs How To Request Color Samples From Top Suppliers

Mat board samples play a crucial role for artists, photographers, framers, and crafters who need to visualize how different colors and textures will complement their artwork or photographs. Several suppliers offer free or low-cost sample programs that enable consumers to make informed decisions before purchasing larger quantities. This article examines the mat board sample programs available from leading suppliers, detailing the types of samples offered, request processes, and any associated costs.

American Frame Conservation Sample Sets

American Frame provides a comprehensive sample program designed to help customers make informed decisions about conservation mat board options. Their conservation sample set features 2" x 4" strips of all available conservation mat boards, making them practical for studio or classroom use. These samples allow artists and framers to see and feel the actual materials before committing to larger purchases.

For customers who may not need an extensive collection, American Frame offers free samples upon request for quantities of five boards or less. This accessibility makes it possible for individuals to test specific colors or textures without financial commitment. The company also provides corner samples in their most popular mat board types and colors, offering an alternative to the full strip samples.

The conservation-grade samples are particularly valuable for professionals working with valuable artwork, as they accurately represent the materials that will provide proper protection and preservation. The ability to physically examine the samples helps in assessing color accuracy, texture, and thickness, which are critical factors in mat board selection.

MatBoard Plus Color Sample Folder

MatBoard Plus offers a convenient sample solution through their pocketed folder filled with current mat colors from multiple product lines. The samples provided measure 1.25" x 3.25", offering a substantial size for color comparison while maintaining a compact format for easy storage and reference.

The sample folder includes mat boards from the following product lines: - Standard Mats - Standard Gallery Mats - Standard Premium Suede Mats - Conservation Mats - Conservation Gallery Mats

This comprehensive collection allows customers to compare colors across different mat board types and quality levels, facilitating better decision-making for various projects and budgets.

A significant advantage of MatBoard Plus's program is the inclusion of free shipping with their sample folder. This reduces the barrier to accessing physical samples, making it more convenient for customers to evaluate options before purchasing.

For customers who require only a couple of specific samples, MatBoard Plus offers an alternative request method. By emailing the company with the specific colors or items wanted, along with a name and shipping address, customers can receive up to six samples at no cost. This targeted approach is ideal for individuals who have narrowed down their options but need to see specific colors in person before finalizing their selection.

MatBoard and More Sample Options

MatBoard and More provides a versatile sample program that caters to various customer needs through both individual samples and pre-packaged sample sets. Their approach offers flexibility for those who prefer to select specific items or those who want to explore a variety of products.

Individual samples are available for $1 each, making them an affordable option for customers who need only a few specific colors or types. The company enhances the value proposition by offering a coupon credit worth up to $20 off the next non-sample purchase when customers buy individual samples. This effectively reduces the cost of sampling while encouraging future business.

MatBoard and More offers several sample pack options, each designed for different purposes: - Matboards (2" x 4") - Picture Frames (4") - Backing Boards (4" x 6") - Glazings (4" x 6") - Show Bag (5" x 7")

The variety of sample sizes and types reflects the company's comprehensive product range, allowing customers to evaluate not just mat boards but also complementary framing materials. This holistic approach can be particularly valuable for those planning complete framing projects.

Customer reviews for MatBoard and More's samples indicate high satisfaction with product quality and service speed. Multiple reviewers have commented on the professional appearance of the mats and the precision of cutting, which suggests that the samples accurately represent the quality customers can expect from full-sized products. The positive feedback regarding delivery times further enhances the appeal of their sample program, particularly for customers working on time-sensitive projects.

Crescent Brands Sample Collection

Crescent Brands distinguishes itself through an extensive mat board selection of nearly 1,200 active options, which is reflected in their sample offerings. The company has organized its mat board collection to facilitate browsing, with filtering capabilities and search functionality to help customers locate specific items or explore options efficiently.

Crescent Brands' website navigation includes a dedicated "ALL SAMPLES" section, indicating the importance they place on providing physical samples for customer evaluation. Their sample offerings include: - Chip specifiers - Matboard corners - Matboard swatches - Moulding corners - Printed brochures

This diverse range of sample types allows customers to evaluate materials in different formats, from small chips to larger swatches, depending on their specific needs.

The company provides detailed browsing tips on their website, emphasizing the utility of filters and search functionality when navigating their extensive selection. For desktop users, they note that browsing is easier on larger screens, while mobile users are advised to make full use of filters and search features to navigate efficiently.

Crescent Brands' approach to sample distribution appears to be comprehensive, offering various ways for customers to experience their products before purchase. The inclusion of both mat board and moulding samples suggests that the company aims to support customers in creating cohesive framing solutions by providing samples of complementary elements.

Sample Size and Format Comparison

The different suppliers offer mat board samples in various sizes and formats, each with distinct advantages for different evaluation purposes:

• American Frame provides 2" x 4" strips of conservation mat boards, offering substantial surface area for color and texture assessment.
• MatBoard Plus samples measure 1.25" x 3.25", providing a compact yet useful size for color comparison.
• MatBoard and More offers multiple sample sizes, including 2" x 4" mat boards and various other framing material samples in sizes ranging from 4" to 5" x 7".

The variety in sample formats includes full strips, corners, chips, and swatches, each serving different evaluation needs. Full strips and larger swatches are ideal for assessing overall appearance and texture, while corners and chips can be useful for quick color reference or when storage space is limited.

Some suppliers organize samples in pocketed folders or collections, which can be particularly valuable for comparing multiple colors side by side. These organized formats help customers create reference collections that can be useful for future projects or when working with clients.

Request Processes and Eligibility

The process for obtaining mat board samples varies among suppliers, with different requirements and methods:

American Frame allows customers to request free samples of five boards or less, though the specific request process is not detailed in the provided information. For their corner samples, customers would need to inquire about availability and request procedures.

MatBoard Plus offers two distinct methods for obtaining samples. For their comprehensive color folder, customers can order directly through their website with free shipping included. For smaller quantities (up to six samples), customers need to email the company with their specific color requests, name, and shipping address. This email-based approach requires direct communication with the company but offers the advantage of no cost for small quantities.

MatBoard and More appears to operate primarily through their website, where customers can purchase individual samples for $1 each or select from their pre-packaged sample sets. Their e-commerce approach makes the process straightforward, with the added benefit of coupon credits for future purchases.

Crescent Brands' sample request process is not detailed in the provided information, though their website navigation suggests they have a well-organized sample section. Customers would likely need to visit their "ALL SAMPLES" page to understand the specific request procedures and any associated costs.

Cost Considerations

While several suppliers offer free samples, the financial aspects of obtaining mat board samples vary:

• American Frame provides free samples for five boards or less, with no indication of shipping costs.
• MatBoard Plus offers their color folder with free shipping and provides up to six free samples via email request.
• MatBoard and More charges $1 for individual samples but provides coupon credits worth up to $20 off future non-sample purchases.
• Crescent Brands' sample pricing is not specified in the provided information.

The cost structure of these sample programs reflects different business approaches. Some suppliers use free samples as a customer acquisition tool, while others offset the cost of materials and fulfillment through nominal charges or by encouraging future purchases through incentives like coupon credits.

For customers on a budget, the free sample options from American Frame and MatBoard Plus provide accessible ways to evaluate materials before purchase. Those who are willing to make a small investment may find MatBoard and More's individual samples worthwhile, especially given the potential for future discounts on larger purchases.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Customer feedback on mat board sample programs provides valuable insights into the quality and reliability of these offerings:

MatBoard and More has received multiple positive reviews highlighting product quality and service efficiency. Customers have specifically mentioned: - Satisfaction with the quality of mats - Appreciation for precise cutting - Positive comments about delivery speed - Recognition of the professional appearance of the products

These reviews suggest that the samples provided accurately represent the quality of full-sized products, which is crucial for customers making purchasing decisions based on sample evaluations.

While reviews for other suppliers' sample programs are not included in the provided information, the general satisfaction expressed by MatBoard and More customers indicates the importance of quality samples in the framing and mat board industry. The ability to physically examine products before purchase appears to be a valued service that contributes to customer confidence and satisfaction.

Selecting and Using Mat Board Samples

When utilizing mat board sample programs, customers can follow several best practices to maximize their value:

1. Compare under different lighting conditions: Mat board colors can appear different under various light sources, so it's advisable to evaluate samples under the lighting conditions similar to where the framed artwork will be displayed.

2. Consider multiple viewing distances: Colors may appear different from close up versus at a distance, so samples should be viewed from various perspectives.

3. Pair with artwork samples: When possible, place small samples of the actual artwork next to the mat board samples to better visualize the final presentation.

4. Create a sample reference collection: Organizing received samples in a dedicated folder or binder can create a valuable reference for future projects.

5. Note product information: Keep track of specific mat board names, numbers, and product lines when evaluating samples to facilitate reordering.

6. Consider conservation requirements: For valuable artwork, prioritize conservation-grade samples if available, as these will provide appropriate protection and preservation.

By following these practices, customers can make more informed decisions when selecting mat board colors and types for their projects, reducing the likelihood of dissatisfaction with the final result.

Conclusion

Mat board sample programs provide an essential service for artists, photographers, framers, and crafters who need to evaluate colors, textures, and quality before making purchasing decisions. The available options range from free samples from American Frame and MatBoard Plus to low-cost individual samples from MatBoard and More, with each supplier offering different advantages.

American Frame's conservation sample sets and free sample option make them accessible for those working with valuable artwork. MatBoard Plus's comprehensive color folder and email-based sample request system offer convenience and variety. MatBoard and More's flexible approach with individual samples, sample packs, and coupon credits provides multiple pathways for evaluation. Crescent Brands' extensive selection and organized sample collection cater to customers needing to explore a wide range of options.

By understanding the different sample programs available and how to effectively utilize the samples received, customers can make more confident purchasing decisions, ultimately enhancing the quality and presentation of their framed artwork and projects.

Sources

1. American Frame Sample Request Page
2. MatBoard Plus Color Sample Folder
3. MatBoard and More Sample Selection
4. Crescent Brands Matboard Collection
5. Crescent Brands Sample Collection