# Material observation worksheet

An everyday object can become a useful material reference. Use this blank template in a notebook or text editor, on its own or alongside Materium. It is a learning aid for organising observations and sources.

## 1. Name the object and the part

- Reference name:
- Date:
- Object and intended use:
- Part being described (body, cap, surface, backing, thread or other):
- Product name or supplier page, if known:

## 2. Keep three views

- Whole object photo or filename:
- Surface, edge or construction detail:
- Label, marking or product description:

Use even light. Include an edge or join when it helps explain how the object is made. Photograph only items and information you are comfortable keeping in your notes.

## 3. Describe what is visible

- Colour and surface finish:
- Pattern, yarn arrangement, grain, pores or moulding details:
- Layers, seams, joints or separate components:
- Other useful observations:

## 4. Record the stated material

- Exact label, moulded marking or supplier wording:
- Which part the wording describes:
- Source link or document filename:
- Date the source was checked:

## 5. Explore and compare

- Material family or candidate to explore:
- Materium assessment, if used:
- App version and scan date, if recorded:
- Details that support the comparison:
- Details to ask the supplier or another source about:

Keep a visual observation, a supplier declaration and an AI-assisted assessment labelled separately. This makes the reference easier to revisit and improve.

## 6. Choose a useful next step

- Care, repair, reuse or design question:
- Manufacturer or local collection guidance relevant to that question:
- Next action:

For recycling, check the actual item and local collection instructions. A material name or resin code alone does not establish local acceptance.

## Keep learning

- Material profiles: https://materiumapp.com/materials/
- How Materium works: https://materiumapp.com/how-materium-works/
- Material guides: https://materiumapp.com/learn/
- US recycling guidance: https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-do-i-recycle-common-recyclables

Prepared by Materium with AI assistance. Version 1, 19 October 2026.