Kartel Hand Lettering

Custom watchmakers, Kartel, sought a traditional look for their shop signwriting in St Andrews.

Before Kartel began trading, I applied large vinyl graphics on the shop windows. The graphics introduced Kartel to the St Andrews community. Once the shop opened to the public, hand lettering the fascia sign immediately signalled permanence.

Scaled artwork was provided before paper patterns were made to transfer the design onto the shop fascia. This method is necessary for positioning the design exactly. The line drawn patterns were then perforated so I could transfer the lettering accurately onto the fascia.

Kartel wanted a satin finish for the lettering, which was a challenge to match. Not all paints are suitable for hand lettering nor last in the cold Scottish environment. The paint merchant closely matched Pantone references and I knew that the lettering would require more than one coat. To cover solid on black and dark backgrounds, most paints will require at least two coats.

The shop fascia was reached with my scaffolding, on a cold Sunday morning in November. This time of the week was chosen to avoid the busy street’s shoppers. Our time on site was around four hours from start to finish.

Searching for a signwriter in St Andrews? Contact me to discuss your project.