The UK’s leading sample manufacturer

F.J. Ratchford – Materials That Make Pattern Books Shine

At Sampling International, we understand that the materials that go into your samples and our manufacturing processes make a huge difference to your products, which is why we source only the highest-quality suppliers in the industry.

We’d like to introduce you to F.J. Ratchford, a thriving family business operating on a global scale, led by Jonathan and Marcus Ratchford, along with their talented and passionate in-house team.

They carry forward their commitment to quality and personal service, bringing high-quality materials and a personal touch to customers worldwide.

A spokesperson from F.J. Ratchford says:

Introducing F.J. Ratchford

In the ever-evolving world of sampling and presentation, F.J. Ratchford has remained a trusted name for generations, supplying the materials that bring pattern books, packaging, and presentation tools to life.

With a legacy dating back to 1889, we’ve built our reputation on quality, consistency, and a deep understanding of how materials influence perception.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

From our beginnings in Manchester supplying bookbinders, shoemakers, and stationers, we’ve grown into a leading supplier of cover materials for creative industries across the UK and beyond.

Now based in Stockport, our family-run business blends traditional values with a forward-thinking approach, offering materials that are as versatile as they are beautiful.

Materials That Make Pattern Books Shine

Pattern books do a vital job, they showcase the textures, tones, and possibilities of a material. At F.J. Ratchford, we supply the cloths, papers, and boards that help make those presentations stand out.

From bookcloths and papers to boards, our materials are chosen by pattern book makers across the UK and beyond. Whether you’re wrapping a spine, lining a tray, or covering a case, we’ve got finishes that are made to last, and made to impress.

We’re especially excited about our new Eclipse paper range, a collection of colourful, high-impact papers designed to turn heads. As part of the launch, we’ve introduced a line of 100% recycled Linen papers, perfect for projects that need both style and sustainability.

Caring about the materials we use also means caring about where they come from. Sustainability is an ongoing focus for us, and we’re actively looking at ways to reduce our environmental impact, from sourcing more recycled fibres to exploring new, eco-conscious ranges across our full offering.

You can view all of F.J. Ratchford’s product ranges on their website here.

Working in Partnership

Our materials have long been trusted by leading pattern book manufacturers and sample makers to add polish and durability to their projects. We’re proud to support these partners with reliable stock, expert advice, and the kind of tactile quality that elevates every finished product.

Whether your priority is sustainability, colour, or texture, we’re here to help you find the right material to tell your story.

Pattern Books: Your Sampling Solutions Partner

If you want to elevate your pattern books and product samples then look no further than Sampling International. We use high-quality materials and finishes to make sure your samples stand out in the market.

Contact us today to talk about how we can help you create stunning samples that showcase your designs in the best possible way.