Abstract: A method for producing a sample slice includes providing a disk, providing a jig on the disk for supporting side portions of a material, providing the material inside the jig, providing a pillar assembly on the jig, the pillar assembly that includes a first base member having a plurality of through holes, a second base member detachably mounted to said first base member, and a plurality of pillars supported between said first and second base members and arranged to be exposed through the plurality of holes, inserting the plurality of pillars into the material, solidifying the material, separating the jig and the pillar assembly to remove the material from the jig, and cutting a sample slice from the material with a cutter.