A conversation with Roberta Proni, manager of Italsample
Italsample produces sample books and archival containers. Why this combination?
Roberta Proni
We started as a workshop for creating sample books. We dealt exclusively with fabrics, relying on an external paper mill for all paper details. When the paper mill merged into Italsample, we decided to continue its long tradition in archival products as well.
What is a sample book for and how should it be?
R.P.
From a practical standpoint, the sample book is a company's calling card: for a textile publisher it represents the product itself, while in other industrial sectors it summarizes the available finish variants for the same product. It is a sales tool used to showcase one's offering to clients. The sample book is therefore a document, but we also consider it a finished product and pay great attention to its creation, which is still almost entirely handcrafted today. We are convinced that, beyond information, the sample book conveys a true tactile and visual exploration. Material and color must be perceived in all their beauty.
How is a sample book made?
R.P.
It is almost 100% handcrafted work, requiring great manual effort: even though we have specialized machinery for the sample book sector, fabrics and threads are still cut by hand. We also handle sample books for materials: in this case, the difficulty depends on specific characteristics, because fabrics, technical textiles, leather, wood, etc. each require a custom solution.
And what characteristics should a document container have?
R.P.
We produce containers of all types, including those specifically for preservation that must be made of acid-free cellulose at neutral pH. We create projects based on specifications provided by the client: paper documents, parchments, maps, photographs, and drawings require custom containers to be preserved intact.
How does your work unfold?
R.P.
Regarding sample books, we work on individual projects. We don't have standard products: we always start with an analysis and consultation phase to focus on the client's expectations and needs, including in terms of timelines and available budget. Then we move on to design and prototyping. In fact, the prototype is already a sample book to see and touch. If it works, we proceed to production. For archival containers, the process begins with an on-site inspection, followed by a custom proposal both for the type of material and dimensions. Our commitment at the design level makes us partners to our clients rather than suppliers.
How would you describe Italsample in three words?
R.P.
Craftsmanship, experience, and design.
