Assign a unique identifier
Link each card to a clear internal reference: job, formula variant or documented trial. The connection must remain retrievable after tidying.
If several people create samples, use the same fields. Personal abbreviations lose meaning quickly during handover.
Record the process, not just the colour name
Useful fields include variant, date, material, ground colour and relevant application notes. Additional fields depend on the system and test question.
Record departures against the actual card. A general note on a loose sheet may no longer be attributable later.
Keep physical card and records together
File cards so identifiers and information remain accessible. With digital records, the physical sample must be findable under the same identifier. Its photograph does not replace its actual colour.
Distinguish a trial, an assessed variant and a reference used for a particular job. Without those statuses, the collection becomes ambiguous.
Reuse the collection deliberately
An archived sample is a documented starting point. It does not prove that another mix, vehicle or process will give the same result. Check the new reference rather than copy an old decision.
Regular sorting exposes duplicate identifiers and untraceable cards. Station, card holder and archive serve different complementary functions.
Relevant BUWO products
Enquire about a test spray station for your workshop
Tell us your paint system, card format and intended workflow. We can clarify connections and the version using product documentation.
Get in touch ↗Sources and information date
Product data: BUWO catalogue, export dated 20 October 2026. Editorial information: 9 November 2026. Confirm the actual version and documentation when enquiring.
