Swatch (noun)

1. A sample piece of fabric or other material used to show a range of colors, patterns or textures.
2. A sample of a color, pattern or texture used as a reference.

Origin:

Mid 20th century: blend of sample and watch.

Examples:

1. She selected a paint color by matching it to a swatch of fabric.
2. The designer created a swatch book of all the available fabrics.
3. The artist used a paint swatch to match the colors in the photograph.
4. The designer had a swatch of every color of thread in her studio.
5. She had a swatch of the wallpaper she wanted to use for the room.