Traditional Signwriting

The studio specialises in the traditional craft of Signwriting also known as Sign painting.

Signs can be made up from scratch or existing walls, shop fronts or areas can be painted to give your space a premium feel and finish that will last for years to come.

With 17 years of creative and design industry experience, I am happy to discuss your ideas in more detail and offer advice to get the very best from your project.

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Studio shelf showing signwriting enamels

THE ART OF SIGNWRITING

This craft dates back to the Roman times, initially with pictures rather than lettering as very few people could read at that time. Jumping to the 1800’s, painted signs became very popular enabling merchants, traders and business people to advertise their wares and services to the passing public. Everything was laid out and painted by hand so sign painters were very much in demand for shop fronts, vehicle signwriting and gilding. Sadly in the 1980’s with the introduction of computers, vinyl and plastic signs becoming readily available, the skilled craft of signwriting became almost redundant.

Luckily today there has been a resurgence for hand painted signs. With vinyl looking cheap, often using designs and only lasting short term, people are seeking quality craftsmanship again that lasts longterm and gives a much more premium and specialist feel to their business. Hand painted signs are popular for historic and listed buildings, pubs and restaurants, vintage vehicles and independent shops and boutiques.

Specialist enamel based paints are used and materials such as gold leaf are often included within designs for an eye-catching finish, known as gilding.

It can take years to learn with many well established and experienced signwriters still learning every time they pick up a brush. For those looking to learn, there are some great books, online courses and workshops now available.

Gilding and gold leaf. Box of tools and materials

GILDING & GOLD LEAF

Gilding is the process of applying metal leaf to give a mirror or matt sheen finish. It works well for windows, mirrors and shop/pub fascia signs, giving a traditional and 3D finish for specialist projects.

23ct Gold is a popular choice for outdoor signs with lower carat metals including gold, silver and copper which are suitable for indoor use. Dutch leaf is another cheaper alternative that is suitable for interior use over larger areas.

If you like shiney things as much as we do, please get in touch for further information and a free quote.