Formica Brand Laminate Patterns Black Shalestone Matte Laminate Black Kitchen Countertop SAMPLE ( 3-in x 5-in )

Who asks for reviews for a sample? Well..u got it!

Wow! What a sample. I have gotten lots of samples before, but this sample was the best sample of all samples. If I could give six stars, I would. Thinking about skipping buying the product all together, and just ordering 1000 of these samples, and just gluing them all together. Might even see if I can buy them in bulk and give them out as Christmas gifts. Now that I think about it, my wedding anniversary is coming up. My wife will be so surprised. I think she will love it! Yeah samples!!!!!

Useful for testing

If you're worried about how damage-resistant or damage-hiding your future laminate might be, grabbing a sample is a great idea. I tried scratching directly into the sample with a utility knife, and was pleasantly surprised to find that it was hard to damage and the resulting cuts were only visible under glaring light.

Convenient

So glad I could have a sample (2.5 X 4 inches, estimate) sent to my home, rather than having to go in to match a photo on my phone in order to determine the color and pattern that we installed several years ago. We've added a cabinet and want the top to match, but don't want to shop around in person during a pandemic. Twenty-five cents and done, and it is a match!

Not what it used to be

Previous laminate countertop lasted a very long time with little to no wear. Installed a new countertop and within six months it's stained and has scratches in it. We followed all included care instructions from the beginning. Very disappointed. Gave it two stars because measurements were correct upon picking up the order.

Use this to decide your desired finish

I ordered both this sample and the gloss-finish one in the same pattern-- I definitely recommend seeing the samples in person before deciding which you'd like! Photos don't quite show the finish as well as having it in your hands.

Good try-before-you-buy option

The grain of the pattern was a little tighter than I had imagined from the preview-- so grab one of these samples to make sure you know what you're getting! Surprises are better for birthday parties, not countertop buying after all :)

Good for checking color and texture

This laminate has a somewhat different texture to the touch than other laminates I've seen, presumably to better mimic travertine stone. It's a good idea to get this sample and feel it for yourself, since a photo can't quite show the difference.

Sample Product

The sample size was perfect and shipping was fast. I was able to test the scratch resistant of the surface, which I was impressed by. This was my 1st choice for the white countertops

Curious about this laminate? This is what you need

Having a sample of this laminate on-hand is very helpful-- I needed to see how the product reacts to heat and different adhesives/cleaners, and the sample is a good size for getting answers. :)

Purchased this with matte version of same pattern

Great for comparison! The gloss and matte finishes are different to sight/touch, and I definitely recommend having these samples physically in your hands to help you decide which you prefer.