The Magic of Sampling: Experiment, Learn, Create
Why Making Samples is Worth It?
I don’t always make samples before starting a project. Sometimes, I just go with the flow and trust the process. But when I’m working with a new material or unsure how something will turn out, I prefer to test my idea first. Samples are like a small experiment – they let me see how a material reacts, whether a technique works, and if the final effect matches my vision (not just my imagination). They save time, effort, and resources while often leading to new discoveries that can enhance the final piece.
Texture Samples – Testing Surfaces and Patterns
Texture can completely change the character of a piece, so I like to test different effects before committing. I try out various ways of imprinting patterns, use tools with interesting structures, and see how the material reacts to pressure, moisture, or other factors. Sometimes, an idea that seems perfect in theory falls flat in practice, while an accidental imprint of a sieve, a piece of string, or a grater turns out to be the perfect detail. These tests help me find the ideal texture for a project and avoid disappointment at the final stage.
Color Samples – How Colors Behave on the Material
Color is always unpredictable until I see it on the actual material. A paint shade in the tube can look completely different when dry, and on paper pulp, its behavior can be even more surprising. Sometimes, the pigment absorbs unevenly, creating subtle tonal transitions, while other times, it leaves bold stains I didn’t expect. Through samples, I discovered how beautifully watercolors blend with dried paper pulp – the paint gently spreads over the irregularities, highlighting the texture and giving it an organic look. Testing like this helps me avoid disappointments and find new ways to combine color and texture.
Form Samples – Shapes, Proportions, and Structure
Sometimes, an idea isn’t enough – only by testing the shape can I see if the proportions work and if the whole piece looks as I imagined. Especially when working with paper pulp or other pliable materials, forms tend to "live their own lives." What was meant to be a light, delicate structure may turn out too bulky, or on the other hand, too thin and fragile. That’s why I create trial constructions, checking how the material settles, how it interacts with texture, and how it changes after drying. These tests help avoid mistakes and refine the final shape of the project.
Durability Samples – Does the Material Hold Up?
Sometimes, something looks great but turns out to be fragile or cracks in unexpected places once dry. That’s why durability testing is a crucial step for me – I check whether the paper pulp breaks at folds, if the layers bond well, and how the structure handles weight. If something starts to crack, it’s a sign that a reinforcing element is needed, like wire, wooden sticks, or a wire mesh base to strengthen the structure. These trials help refine my technique and prevent the final project from being too delicate for practical use.
Experimenting with Tools – Discovering New Effects
Samples aren’t just about testing materials but also about experimenting with tools. With paper pulp, every press, imprint, or scratch can create a completely different effect. Of course, I can use classic spatulas and brushes, but kitchen tools often do the best job. A sieve leaves regular mesh-like patterns, a meat tenderizer creates interesting geometric indentations, and even a simple strainer can add subtle texture. By experimenting, I discover new ways to shape surfaces – sometimes by accident, but that’s part of the fun.
From Sample to Project – How to Use Test Results
Making samples is one thing, but drawing conclusions from them is just as important. Sometimes, a test immediately points me in the right direction, while other times, I need to tweak things a few times to get the desired result. If a texture looks interesting but is too subtle, I can enhance it by changing the tool or applying more pressure. If a color absorbs unevenly, maybe a primer is needed, or I should adjust the paint-to-water ratio.
I encourage you to experiment! Samples aren’t just a way to avoid mistakes – they’re also fun and a great learning opportunity. They open the mind, spark creativity, and often lead to ideas I wouldn’t have considered otherwise. And the best part? They can totally surprise you – at the most unexpected moment, they might offer the perfect solution for your project or even inspire something entirely new.