A Corner Sample is a physical sample of a picture frame moulding or mat board, cut and assembled to represent the corner of a finished frame. These samples allow customers and framers to preview how the materials will look when joined together at a corner, which is the most visually representative part of a frame.
Corner samples are commonly used in frame shops, galleries, and design studios to help clients select the right frame style, color, and proportion for their artwork or photograph. They provide a tactile, three-dimensional reference that is more accurate than flat swatches or photographs. By comparing multiple samples against a piece of art, clients can better visualize how different color wheel combinations, finishes, and moulding profiles will affect the overall presentation.
Because corner samples only represent a small portion of the frame, they may not fully convey how the entire piece will look when finished. Lighting conditions, mat color, and the size of the artwork can all influence the final appearance. Frame shops often recommend viewing multiple samples and considering larger mockups when available.