The provision of free samples is a common practice among retailers and manufacturers, allowing consumers to assess product quality, colour, and material before committing to a purchase. Of The Earth, a stationery and decorative product supplier, offers a sample service specifically for their range of ribbons and papers. This article details the specific procedures, eligibility requirements, and limitations regarding the acquisition of these free samples, based exclusively on the information provided by the company.
Company Background and Sample Philosophy
Of The Earth is a vendor specialising in paper and ribbon products, operating from Seattle, Washington, in the United States. The company explicitly states a philosophy centred on customer confidence; they aim to ensure that customers are "completely comfortable" with their order prior to placement. Consequently, they encourage customers to judge the physical appearance of paper, ribbon, or invitations in person rather than relying on digital representations, which may not accurately convey "true colours."
The company's contact information policy is clearly defined. They assert that they do not sell, share, trade, or otherwise use customer contact information for any purpose other than responding to specific requests. This privacy assurance is a key component of their sample programme.
Ribbon Sample Availability
The SOURCE DATA indicates that Of The Earth offers a substantial inventory of ribbons. Specifically, there are over 800 ribbon colours available across more than 20 styles. Because of this vast selection, the company requires customers to be specific in their requests. A generic request for "ribbon samples" is likely insufficient given the variety of options available.
Requesting Samples
To obtain samples, customers must follow a specific process. The company provides a mechanism for requesting samples, likely via a web form or direct contact, though the specific interface is not detailed in the source material other than a reference to a "box below" where specific instructions can be entered.
The "Paper Only" Request
For customers who are interested solely in the paper quality rather than ribbon, there is a specific instruction. Requesters must include the words "paper only" in the designated request box. This ensures that the sample pack sent is tailored to the customer's specific interest.
International Customer Requirements
The sample programme is open to international customers, which is relevant to UK consumers. However, there is a distinct requirement for this demographic. International customers are instructed to use the "fee button" when making their request. This implies that while the samples may be free in terms of product cost, international shipping might incur a fee, or there is a specific administrative process for non-US based requests that requires the use of a fee payment option.
Sample Composition and Quality Assurance
The samples provided by Of The Earth are designed to illustrate the company's print and paper quality. The standard invitation sample provided is described as the "style shown here," though the visual reference is not available in the text provided.
Product Categories Included
While the primary focus of the query is ribbon, the company offers a wide variety of products that may be included in sample packs or available for order. The source material lists an extensive array of products made from "Seed Paper," a specific material used by the company. These products include:
- Seed Paper Belly Bands
- Seed Paper Bottle Tags
- Seed Paper Boxes
- Seed Paper Butterflies
- Seed Paper Circles
- Seed Paper Clouds
- Seed Paper Cones
- Seed Paper Escort Cards
- Seed Paper Hearts
- Seed Paper Hexagons
- Seed Paper Leaf Shapes
- Seed Paper Onesies
- Seed Paper Popcorn Tub
- Seed Paper Tags
- Seed Paper Place Cards
Additionally, the company offers "Assemble at home kits." While the availability of free samples for these specific kit items is not explicitly stated, the diversity of the product line suggests that the sample programme is intended to showcase the material quality across their inventory.
Contact and Verification
For verification of current sample offers or to clarify the "fee button" requirement for international requests, customers can contact Of The Earth directly. The company lists the following contact details:
- Address: 7706 Aurora Ave. N, Seattle, Washington 98103
- Local/International Phone: 206.462.7022
- Fax: 206.462.7024
- Toll Free US: 1.888.294.1526
Technical Considerations
When accessing the sample request form, users should be aware of potential technical limitations. The source data includes a warning regarding browser compatibility. Users with outdated or unsupported browsers may encounter issues. The company recommends upgrading to a modern, fully supported browser to benefit from all features and helpful tools. Supported browsers typically include Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
Summary of Requirements for UK Consumers
UK consumers looking to acquire free ribbon or paper samples from Of The Earth should note the following key points derived from the source material:
- Specificity is Required: Due to the availability of over 800 ribbon colours and more than 20 styles, requests must be specific.
- Paper Requests: Those interested only in paper quality must include the phrase "paper only" in the request box.
- International Fees: International customers, including those in the UK, must use the "fee button." This suggests that a shipping or handling fee may apply to international sample requests, differing from potentially free domestic shipping in the US.
- Privacy: Contact information is used solely for responding to the request and is not sold or shared.
- Sample Purpose: Samples are intended to demonstrate print and paper quality to aid in purchase decisions.
Conclusion
Of The Earth provides a structured sample programme designed to help customers evaluate product quality before purchasing. The programme accommodates a wide range of ribbon and paper products, requiring specific instructions for customisation. International customers should be prepared to utilise the "fee button" to facilitate their request, acknowledging the logistical costs associated with shipping physical samples from the United States to the United Kingdom.