Traditional Signwriting Course
Learn the basics of traditional signwriting at Joby's workshop in Street, Somerset. From layout and design, to shading, lining and brushwork. Joby teaches using the traditional methods that were taught 100 years ago without modern shortcuts such as using masking tape or computers.
At the end of the week, you’ll leave with your own hand painted sign which you will have drawn, laid out and painted using skills you perfect and practice throughout the week.
What will you learn on the course
- How to scale up and draw letters correctly by hand (no computers used)
- How to lay letters out in relation to one another (in typography and printing it’s known as kerning, in signwriting we call it spacing) and understanding the negative space created between the letters
- Composition within your sign or board and where your lettering should sit to make best use of the space
- When it’s ok to break ‘the rules’ to adapt to your letters to fit and suit their surroundings
- Choosing the right professional tools, including how to look after your paint brushes and prepare them for use, how to store them correctly and how to grease them up
- How to work paint on your palette and apply it with the correct viscosity
- How to use a mahl stick to assist you with smooth movements while painting your letterforms
- Colour selection and contrasts to make your lettering have impact
- How to layout block using the triangle trick
- How to layout a shadow correctly (often something even experienced signwriters get wrong)
- An understanding of the best fonts and alphabets to use for hand painted lettering and how they relate to each other (it all starts with the Roman font)
The course gives you the full understanding of drawing and painting letters by hand which you can then refine and perfect in your own time.
Course location
The courses are held in Joby's workshop in Street, Somerset. You’ll be able to see examples of Joby’s signwriting as well as any current signwriting projects Joby is working on.
Please be aware that Joby’s dog Goofy is usually in the workshop while Joby is hosting a course. If you have any concerns regarding this please contact us as soon as possible.
Address:
Unit 18 Rockhaven Business Centre, Gravenchon Way, Street, BA16 0HW
Parking
There is limited parking at the workshop, and we prioritise disabled parking. Please get in touch if this is you.
Please be aware that all neighbouring units are occupied businesses, so do not park in their allocated spaces. Parking is available in the surrounding area, but we kindly ask that you park considerately and avoid blocking entrances, access or other businesses.
Travel and Accommodation
Students travel from all over the world to attend Joby's courses.
See the FAQs below for guidance on where to stay and how to get here (including nearest airport and train station).
Who teaches the course
This course is taught by Joby Carter, a leading expert in traditional signwriting. Joby has over 30 years experience in signwriting, fancy lettering and fairground art and is a highly skilled decorative artist.
Via virtual and workshop courses he has taught thousands of students how to signwrite.
His practical, real-life experience as a signwriter and his approachable explanations of professional tips will give you the confidence to learn and perfect your skills.
Who is this course for
This course is designed to appeal to those interested in learning the basics of signwriting with the aim to continue it as a creative hobby, passion project or business.
All students must be over the age of 18.
All skill levels are welcome: you do not have to have previous signwriting experience to take part.
If you already have some signwriting experience, (perhaps you have self taught from books or videos online), the course is an ideal way to perfect your skills and pick up tips from an industry expert.
We are often asked if it matters if you are left handed and want to learn to signwrite. Rest assured, Joby has taught many left handed students over the years.
Courses & Open Days
