NCIDQ Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX) Practice Exam

Which method of veneer matching should a designer avoid when working with a small budget and multiple project areas?

1. Balance match

2. Running match

3. Blueprint match

4. Reverse diamond match

The correct answer is: Blueprint match

When working with a small budget across multiple project areas, avoiding the blueprint match method is advisable due to its complexity and expense. The blueprint match requires precise alignment of the veneer sheets so that grain patterns and colors correspond seamlessly across the surfaces. This method tends to be labor-intensive, requiring skilled craftsmanship to achieve the desired uniform appearance, which can significantly increase both time and costs. In contrast, other methods such as the running match or balance match are more cost-effective and practical for projects with budget constraints. The running match leads to a continuous appearance as the sheets are joined sequentially, making it simpler and more economical. Similarly, the balance match provides a pleasing aesthetic by simultaneously considering both sides of the joint, often leading to a harmonious look without the high costs associated with blueprint matching. Therefore, for a small budget and multiple areas, opting against the blueprint match is a strategic choice.