Open Topper Painting

Brian Robertson (my dad), has been coach painting in Dundee since the 1960s. He taught me how to paint and from a young age, I was always around buses and lorries. We worked together to refurbish Dundee’s open topper double decker.

Taybus Vintage Vehicle Society approached us in 2012.  The group are the proud guardians of Dundee’s famous open top double decker. The Volvo Ailsa bus was operated by Tayside Regional Council since 1979 and ended in the loving care of Taybus. The enthusiasts wanted to restore the double decker to its former glory so, shortly after we met, the team at Taybus got to work sanding the entire bus’ panels.

Previously painted by Brian years earlier when he was employed with Tayside Region, the bus deserved a refurbishment. Over two to three weeks, the coach painting of several layers of paint was added before the recognisable stripes. All paint used was coach enamel which helped the opacity of the colour. We also trusted the paint’s durability and knew it’d last for years.

The bus artwork

The artwork was supplied for us to ensure we would replicate the livery as it was originally. This involved the painting of the outlined ‘Tayside’ lettering all around the bus. We also supplied and applied legal lettering, all carefully designed by Andrew Macintosh. These finishing touches make the livery authentic and essential for the double decker’s character and heritage.

The bus is still used and enjoyed. It’s driven to open days and events, bringing a sense of nostalgia and winning awards.

Interested in discussing how I can help you with coach painting and vehicle graphics? Get in touch to find out more.