Rather than bombard you with information, I have listed below the principle categories of my work alongside a brief description of its methodology and application. You will find more detail in FAQs and additional photographs on the Portfolio page but if you have a question that is not covered on the site then just get in touch on 07739 460 162. Sound design principles underpins all my work and it is true that the best materials and workmanship could not compensate for poor layout, composition or typographical choices. In some instances the customer may already have existing artwork which may be reproduced exactly or adapted to better suit a sign format. Alternatively I can work in consultation with a client to get the design element right. Following an initial discussion this may include hand rendered or computer generated artworks from which a design can be adapted and developed.
GOLD GILDING ON GLASS
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This is perhaps the work I find most rewarding to undertake. Gold is often used in conjunction with signwritten and dimensional lettering - this is called surface-gilding and is quite different to the method on glass known as water-gilding. When used on glass, gilding methods can take signs to the highest visual plane. Well executed signs on windows and glass fascias can be truly beautiful and demand the attention of even the most jaded eyes. Gold was used for shop signage before the advent of electrical illumination for its reflective properties with natural light. 24-carat yellow gold, white gold, platinum and other precious metals in leaf form are applied to the reverse of glass using minute quantities of gelatin dissolved in boiling water. This forms a complex compound producing a strong, permanent and invisible bond to the glass, There are huge varieties of techniques which can be employed to enhance this class of work. Walk around central London & other European and American cities and it is not uncommon to see examples of this work dating back more than a hundred years. As the materials and processes used have not since altered, work completed now may also be expected to last for many many years.
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DIMENSIONAL LETTERS
These are letters (or shapes) cut out from wood, metal, plastic and other materials. They may be flat-cut or feature very deep returns (the latter are known as built-up letters). There are many fabrication and finishing options. Once produced manually, I now use a flat bed computerised router (CNC). Metal letters are generally cut by laser. Dimensional letters can be spray-painted to any colour or finish. Gold leaf can also work very well as a finish. I find that dimensional lettering is usually most effective used on short inscriptions and with some restraint to maximise its impact. |
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HAND LETTERED SIGNS
Hand lettering is usually rendered with sable brushes using One-Shot sign enamels. Other brushes or paints might be used depending on the surface e.g. wood, glass, masonry and metal. This class of work has many applications and is particularly suited to shop fascias, windows, doors, walls & pavement signs. In essence, this is how signs were produced before plastic, vinyl and digital imaging came to dominate the retail landscape. |
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PICTORIALS & DECORATIVE
Pictorials & decorative work comprises all non-lettering elements from scroll work to murals and includes pub signs, gold leaf and paint effects in interior design, Islamic geometry and other types of work. I would include Arabic calligraphy in this section as I love painting it even though I do not read Arabic - yet. Virtually any project involving paint can be handled in-house but I also have colleagues with particular specialisms that can be called on if required. |
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VINYL LETTERING
You may have noted already that this is not a medium that makes my heart sing. It is however the perfect solution for many sign applications. With good decisions in regard to type, layout and colour, excellent results can be achieved at very affordable prices. There are also many types of vinyl that can be creatively employed including metallics, frosting and etched. A rainbow of matte and gloss colours are always available.This has been Diane's department since 1998 - although I am usually the one sent out to install it. Self application can also be undertaken with supplied guidelines. Vinyl is the go-to product for vehicle livery although I might try to persuade you to have your vehicle sign painted instead.
You may have noted already that this is not a medium that makes my heart sing. It is however the perfect solution for many sign applications. With good decisions in regard to type, layout and colour, excellent results can be achieved at very affordable prices. There are also many types of vinyl that can be creatively employed including metallics, frosting and etched. A rainbow of matte and gloss colours are always available.This has been Diane's department since 1998 - although I am usually the one sent out to install it. Self application can also be undertaken with supplied guidelines. Vinyl is the go-to product for vehicle livery although I might try to persuade you to have your vehicle sign painted instead.
OTHER
Over the years I have been engaged in many ways in projects beyond my immediate remit as a signwriter and have worked alongside some very talented people in the process including woodworkers, shop-fitters, architects and graphic designers. I also have many associates in allied trades. So whatever you have in mind your enquiry will be welcomed. If it is obscure or difficult so much the better!
Over the years I have been engaged in many ways in projects beyond my immediate remit as a signwriter and have worked alongside some very talented people in the process including woodworkers, shop-fitters, architects and graphic designers. I also have many associates in allied trades. So whatever you have in mind your enquiry will be welcomed. If it is obscure or difficult so much the better!