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I need to make up a set of samples for my new framing business but realise that I won't be able to make a sample of each and every possible variant of colour wash / gilding / moulding / box frame, or whatever. How do you guys handle the situation where a customer comes in and wants something framed in a frame / colour / finish you don't have a sample of but which you are capable of doing? Do you show them a picture of what you can do, tell them you'll make it up and let them come back to see and decide or what do you suggest?
I have a wall full of chrevrons, 99% handfinished. But I adopt a different approach. I call the examples rather than samples and explain to people that I can do any finish on any shape and infinite subtle variations between. I also point out that if they don't like the result then I can fine tune the finish - a bit duller, a bit brighter - whatever. I very rarely have to do this though.
Some people can't quite grasp the concept though. I tend to start with the basic profile when designing and will offer up a chevron just to get their reaction to the overall look. Then they say "have you got one a bit greener...." I have to explain a few times that they can be any colour they want. The hard part is discovering what they do want.
Usually it ends up with me doing what I like. Which works most of the time. Occasionally I get the awkward ones who want to see what they are getting before committing themselves. Thankfully few are far between.
If you have an example of each profile you stock and an example of some favourite finishes, plus a few more radical ones, then that will allow you to demonstrate most permutations.
Make a few of your favourite finishes to start with then make a sample with each new finish you do and before you know it you will have used up a lot of your off cuts and have a substantial range of samples.
I have to explain a few times that they can be any colour they want. The hard part is discovering what they do want.