Custom house name signs
For a long time I was reluctant to do custom house name signs, for a pretty silly reason - I was worried about the substrate. Preparing wood for exterior use takes a lot of time and preparation - multiple coats of primer and top coat, sanding in between to ensure a smooth surface. I simply don’t have the space in my micro workshop to dry signs in various stages of preparation and also have room to paint. The preparation can be outsourced, and I do use this option from time to time, but it is (rightly) expensive and often the cost is prohibitively high for customers. Enter aluminium composite, stage names: Dibond and Alupanel. Of course, I’ve been aware of aluminium composite for years but I was worried about a load of sensory issues that felt like deal breakers (the smooth texture of the surface, the spiky edges, the weight v thickness). I know, I know - no one else cares about these things, much least my customers - but the shiny texture really sets my teeth on edge.* So what changed? I found a decent supplier who will cut to size (with rounded edges and specified drill house and EVERYTHING) for a reasonable cost and I developed a way of preparing the surface that made it nice to paint on and achievable in my small space. Et voilà! Custom house name signs for all!
I’m going to preempt some of your questions:
Q: What sizes do you offer? A: Within reason, any size. I order the panels cut to size so I can work to your specifications.
Q: How much does a custom house name sign cost? A: Custom house name signs start at £100 plus p&p. The price is determined by the size, the length of the name, the complexity of the design and whether you would like gold leaf.
Q: What styles do you offer? A: Each custom house name sign is entirely bespoke and designed from scratch by me. You can get an idea of my general style as a design from browsing my website and my instagram page. I’m always happy to try new styles too! On the rare occasion that your preference doesn’t match my skillset, I have a wide network of signwriting friends and I will refer to someone who can better meet your requirements.
Q: How long does it take? A: Lead times depend on how busy I am, but usually 1-2 months. I’ll do my best to accommodate rush jobs, but please let me know your deadline upfront.
Q: Do you install the sign? A: No, I don’t do installations - I’m too busy painting! I’m happy to offer advice where possible.
Q: How do I order? A: Send me an email with an outline of your requirements and we’ll go from there.
Q: I’m ready to order a custom house name sign, what happens next? A: Send me an email with your ideas for the sign and I’ll give you a quote. If you’re happy to go ahead, I’ll send you an invoice for a deposit (usually 50% or £100 - whichever is least). Once this is paid, I’ll begin the design. I’ll send you a digital mock up and photos of paint and gold samples. When you’re happy, I’ll start painting. I’ll send you photos of the finished sign along with an invoice for the final amount. When this is paid I’ll send by courier or you’re welcome to collect from Leighton Buzzard.
*Incidentally, this is the same reason I don’t like doing painted mirrors.