Label what is known and what is still open

A material reference board works best when every sample has a plain-language label, a date, and a note about why it was kept. The board can help a team compare visible differences without turning early observations into broad material claims.

Keep the source with the sample

Attach the original photo or working note so a later review can trace the label back to its session. Treat the board as a living reference, not a final compatibility list. Browse /updates/ for more sample-planning notes.