Evaluating Samples and Fabric Collections

Why it matters at project stage

A small sample may not show the full repeat, face direction or hanging behaviour. Project review should cover daylight, artificial light and the effect at different viewing distances.

A professional fabric decision extends beyond colour. Light transmission, drape, usable width, care and intensity of use all affect suitability, while a physical sample shows how these qualities read beside the project materials and under the actual light.

Information required

Verify the product and colour code, sample size, face direction, hanging drape, current technical documentation and whether a control sample is required.

Use claims for fire, acoustic or abrasion performance only where the selected product has current supporting documentation. A collection swatch alone cannot show the full hanging effect, heading or change between daylight and artificial light.

Reaching a project decision

Review visual suitability first, then light transmission, care and any documented performance required by the brief. Retain an approved reference sample on critical projects.

Use “Are the code and colour recorded” and “Was the sample viewed in the project light” as decision gates for this subject. Compare any viable alternatives against those two project-specific questions, then document why the selected approach answers them.

Coordination through delivery

Log sample dispatch, return, approval date and revisions. When proposing an alternative, compare composition, usable width, care and technical data as well as colour.

Record the approved product code, colour, face direction, quantity and location. If an alternative is proposed, review technical suitability and care requirements as well as appearance.

Before handover, resolve “Was its hanging drape assessed” and “Is the technical document current” with the named project parties. Record the answer under the relevant opening or room reference so a later site, material or programme revision can be assessed against the correct approval.

Recording and verifying the decision

For evaluating samples and fabric collections, the approval record should identify the opening or room, current drawing revision, responsible party and date. Attach the dimensions, samples or system information needed to evidence “Has a reference sample been retained”; mark superseded decisions explicitly rather than relying on verbal instruction.

The release checklist for this guide is: Are the code and colour recorded; Was the sample viewed in the project light; Was its hanging drape assessed; Is the technical document current; Has a reference sample been retained. Any unanswered point remains an action with a named owner and decision date, not an assumed instruction to proceed with production or installation.