What does a traditional signwriter do?
Typically, a traditional sign writer offers a range of services that can vary based on their experience, skills, and resources. If you're looking for someone to create a sign for your shop, design a logo for your small business, or develop packaging for your products, you might be unsure if the sign painter you admire on Instagram can assist you with one or all of these things.
Alternatively, let's say you've come across a lettering artist whose style would be perfect for your unique custom wedding gift, but you've only seen examples of their work on shop signs from their website.
In most cases, the sign writer you're considering will likely be able to help you with various aspects of your branding. They might even be excited about the opportunity to take on an unusual custom project or something that falls outside their usual work.
To give you an idea of the range of services offered by a sign writer, I'll outline the work I personally do as a sign writer and designer at Small Type Studio.
1. Hand painted signs
Most traditional signwriters share the commonality that hand-painted signs are our most unique offering when comparing us to other sign shops. This means that instead of producing our signs with computer-aided design and printing machines we use our hands, paint and paint brushes.
Some traditional signwriters use a computer to design their signs and some will design them completely by hand.
At Small Type, wherever appropriate, I prefer to use traditional methods from start to finish. This means I will produce the design with a pencil, transferring it to the final piece using a pounce pattern and finally paint the letters by hand.
To me, the beauty of a hand-painted sign is enhanced by the care, skill, knowledge and connection needed to produce the design by hand.
Hand-painted signs can span a range of applications from shopfronts, fascias, swinging signs, window displays, house numbers, door plaques, directional signage, furniture and lampshade fittings, truck lettering, awnings, art for the home, vintage suitcases, the list goes on. Honestly, if you can touch it I can probably paint some letters onto it!
Gold leaf and reverse glass gold leaf signs
I can also produce any of the above using gold leaf instead of or in addition to paint.
2. Sign Fabrication - building signs
Now I can’t really take credit for this one but I work closely with a joiner, Henry from Gestalt joinery who can build anything you may want me as the sign writer to put lettering onto.
To date, the most ordered examples of this are swinging signs in all shapes and sizes (thanks to our amazing CNC machine, more on that later) shop fascias, small plaques to hang from ceilings, a-boards and multi-directional signage.
Because I can get a joiner on board with your project, anything is possible here really. Do you want a custom sign/ chair that looks like the Eiffel tower? Let’s talk!
3. CNC routed Signs
CNC stands for Computer Numerical control. This option is great if you want to bring in a 3d element with layers or carvings to your signs or a particularly fiddly shape for your swinging sign as we can program the machine to cut or carve anything.
We can still produce the design by hand, combining the quality of traditional techniques and the speed of modern technology.
4. Logo design
As well as specialist hand painted signs I also create digital brands, designs and illustrations and I know what it takes to make a business stand out online and in print (for the right reasons).
I can even make your logo design match your hand painted sign.
If you are looking for a complete visual makeover for your business you are in the right place.
5. Design elements
As part of my branding packages you can have design elements made up that will enhance your brand recognition across your social media, website and everywhere else that you are visible.
I’ll always start with paper and pencil but the final product will be up to the highest digital standards and available in a range of formats.
6. Custom Gifts and Signs for the home
I touched on this in hand-painted signs but if you are looking for something unusual and/ or specific for a loved one using any of the above methods then I would love to hear your ideas. It can be a carved letter covered in traditional fairground art or maybe a custom script describing something special about a loved one.
Honestly, the more unusual the better, these types of commissions are my absolute favourite!
7. Murals
Anything I can do for a sign I can do bigger for a mural. I’m more suited to big typographic pieces but pattern and ornamentation are also my thing!
In conclusion, working with a sign writer can offer you a wide range of creative possibilities for your branding needs. Whether you require a captivating shop sign, a distinctive logo, eye-catching packaging, or a one-of-a-kind custom project, a sign writer with the right skills and experience can bring your vision to life.
At Small Type Studio, I take pride in providing personalised signwriting and design services. If you're seeking a professional who can handle various aspects of your branding, I would be delighted to discuss your specific requirements and create something special for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with me, using my contact form and let’s talk!