When you are developing a new product such as a candle vessel, fragrance bottle, or branded drinkware, the sampling stage is where your idea becomes real. It is an exciting step, but it can feel complex if you are new to the process. That is why JAFE Decorating created the Ready for Sampling Checklist to help your project move smoothly from concept to approval.
Below is a guide on how to prepare for sampling with JAFE so your design moves into production faster, with fewer revisions, clear communication, and a result that truly reflects your brand.
Step 1: Define Your Order Details
Before you request a sample, make sure your intended order quantity and target launch date are confirmed. These two details guide everything from minimum order quantities (MOQs) to production scheduling.
When these details are established, our team can plan capacity and align your sample with your larger distribution goals. If your launch connects to a retail season, marketing campaign, or trade show, having this information ready helps us prioritize your project.
Pro Tip: Even if you do not have your full production schedule set, share your projected launch date. It helps our production team anticipate your needs.
Step 2: Finalize Your Design Assets
To ensure your sample is accurate, JAFE requires specific design files and color information:
• Final artwork files in vector format (.AI, .PDF, or .EPS)
• Color references such as Pantone codes or approved physical swatches
Vector artwork keeps your design crisp and clean and allows our decorators to scale the artwork perfectly to your chosen vessel. Pantone codes guarantee consistent color matching under different lighting conditions, ensuring your finished glass aligns with your brand identity.
If you are working with a designer, ask them to provide layered vector files. This makes it easier for our R&D team to separate elements and make precise adjustments during sampling.
Step 3: Lock In Your Product Decisions
Your vessel style and finish choices set the tone for your brand’s look and feel. Confirming these early ensures your sample reflects what will eventually go into production.
We will need the following:
• Chosen vessel style and finish either from our catalog or a reference sample
• Preferred decoration technique such as painting, screen printing, or a specialty finish like metallic, iridin, or frost
Each finish interacts differently with light and color. If you are experimenting with something new, our R&D team can guide you on which finish best fits your brand vision.
Example: A matte exterior paired with a gloss interior creates a sophisticated candle design, while an iridin finish adds a soft iridescent glow perfect for perfume or skincare collections.
Step 4: Confirm Your Business Readiness
Before we begin sampling, confirm that your budget approval is in place and that you have a decision-making contact identified.
Having a single point of contact keeps communication organized and ensures approvals happen quickly. If multiple stakeholders are involved, let us know in advance so we can plan timelines and proof rounds accordingly.
This step helps keep projects on track and minimizes delays that can occur when approvals are pending.
Step 5: Understand the Revision Policy
Transparency is one of our priorities. Here is what to expect during sampling:
• One complimentary paint revision is included. Additional edits are billed.
• A screen fee applies for screen-printed samples.
• Two complimentary virtual proof revisions are included before additional fees apply.
These guidelines help keep your project cost-effective while ensuring you have enough flexibility to fine-tune the details. Think of the sampling process as a design rehearsal before full production begins.
Step 6: Submit Your Request
Once everything above is ready, submit your sample request to our R&D team. We will review your information, confirm readiness, and schedule your sample for production.
When you are fully sampling-ready, your project moves more efficiently, stays within your budget, and delivers a result that aligns beautifully with your brand standards.
Why Preparedness Matters
Every successful project begins with preparation. JAFE Decorating’s Ready for Sampling Checklist ensures that no key detail is overlooked before your design moves to production.
When your files, colors, and decisions are finalized from the start, you save time, minimize revisions, and build a smoother collaboration with our team. The result is simple: exceptional quality, reliable turnaround, and decoration that elevates your product’s story.
Ready to get started?
Download the Ready for Sampling Checklist to begin your next project with confidence. JAFE Decorating is your trusted partner for custom glass decoration and turnkey fulfillment.