What’s the difference between a finish sample and a mock-up?

Finish samples confirm color, texture, and print. Mock-ups validate structure, product fit, and assembly before production.

Is the mock-up cost deducted from the final order?

Yes. Samtop deducts approved mock-up costs from the full PO for qualifying projects moving to production.

Finish Samples vs. Full Mock-Ups: When to Use Each

Q: Can finish samples be approved via photo?

Photos can be used, but gloss, texture, and metallic finishes should be reviewed in-hand whenever possible.

7 5 月, 2025

Understanding the Two Most Valuable Types of Display Prototypes

Table of Contents

By Yan Luo | Samtop Display

Finish samples help you confirm colors, textures, and materials at the early design stage, while full mock-ups validate dimensions, assembly, and product fit before mass production. Knowing when to use each ensures accuracy, saves cost, and reduces rollout risks.

pantone-spray-panel-sample

A display might “look good” in render — but feel off in store due to color mismatch, flimsy structure, or unclear branding zones.

Skipping the right sample type at the right time leads to expensive rework, failed install photos, or costly hold-ups across markets.

Use finish samples early to lock in visual identity, and full mock-ups later to validate structure and function. Both serve different — but equally critical — purposes.

🧪 What Is a Finish Sample?

Purpose	What It Confirms
Visual identity	Color (Pantone), surface texture, print sharpness
Material direction	Wood, acrylic, PU wrap, vinyl laminate
Print process approval	UV, silkscreen, laser engraving

📏 Size: 5–10cm; labeled, edge-treated preferred
🎨 Format: Spray panel, print swatch, texture sample, fabric board

💡 Think of it as a visual and tactile moodboard.

🧱 What Is a Full Mock-Up?

Type	Use Case
White model	Dimension/proportion testing without branding
Functional prototype	Includes print, lighting, parts — full working sample
Partial build	One module or display section to test part of structure

🧩 Checks:

Structural logic
Product fit
Assembly clarity
Visual balance

💡 Use mock-ups for high-risk displays, complex fit zones, or multi-country campaigns.

🗓️ When to Use Each (Matrix)

Project Stage	Finish Sample	Full Mock-Up
Concept Development	✅ Yes	❌ No
Color & Material Review	✅ Yes	❌ Optional
Internal Brand Approval	✅ Yes	✅ Preferred
Pre-Production Final Sign	✅ Required	✅ Required
Global Rollout Prep	✅ Yes	✅ Must-Have

🔍 Real Case: Fragrance Display Plinth

🟨 Client Need: Confirm base finish + tray fit for 4 fragrance bottles
🟩 Samtop Delivered:

Side-by-side finish sample board: mirror gold acrylic vs brushed aluminum
Full mock-up of bottle tray with final dimensions
Photos in daylight + warm store light + 2-min video assembly test

✅ Result:
Brand approved with no revisions. Finish samples used for brand board, mock-up used for fit & function.

💰 Budget Strategy: When to Combine or Separate

Situation	Sampling Suggestion
Simple branding, existing shape	✅ Finish sample only
New structure or new supplier	✅ Start with white mock-up
Large global order or retail hero	✅ Both samples required
Tight budget but new shape	✅ Partial functional mock-up

📌 Tip: At Samtop, mock-up cost is deducted from full PO for qualified projects.