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This is an interactive Bulletin Board on the topics of Sign making, design, fabrication, History, old Books and of coarse Letterheads, Keepers of the craft. The Hand Lettering Forum features links to resources, sign art history, techniques, and artists profiles. Learn more about Letterheads at https://theletterheads.com. Below you'll see Mchat has been added as a live communication portal for trial, and the Main forum Links are listed below.

Search found 123 matches

by Robert Schwieger
Wed Jan 23, 2008 12:46 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: La Azora Cigar sign Step-by-step...
Replies: 33
Views: 39272

Great work and excellent examples illustrating the process. Do you use a drying agent in your "booth"? Previous posting indicated that a drying agent was available through Home Depot ("Dry Out" I think). I have been unable to locate this or similar agents at the home improvement ...
by Robert Schwieger
Sat Jan 19, 2008 12:55 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Restored glass signs for pub
Replies: 24
Views: 18562

Hello,

Great work and visuals as usual. Do you airbrush the blend?

Keep up the great postings.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Jan 16, 2008 12:42 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: La Azora Cigar sign Step-by-step...
Replies: 33
Views: 39272

These postings are extremely helpful. The information is invaluable for those of us who are unable to attend the fine workshops that are available. Keep up the postings and the examples of the outstanding work being done today.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Jan 08, 2008 12:32 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Gold leaf sign
Replies: 20
Views: 14965

Gold Leaf Sign

Simply beautiful work and an inspiration for those of us in the field. As an independent artist who does not have access to computer cut masks I have recently noticed differing approaches to the "Black" used in postings. I have enjoyed success with screenprinting and gilding (on glass) and...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Dec 18, 2007 6:06 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Robert Mitchell Book
Replies: 1
Views: 2135

Robert Mitchell Book

A copy of the Robert Mitchell book on Glue Chipped Gold Leaf signs (1984) is listed on ebay with a $9.95 starting bid. Seems a good price as two copies are listed on Abe Books for $75.00 and $114.00. Bidding ends soon. Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Sun Dec 09, 2007 5:53 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Waterslide Transfers for glass
Replies: 8
Views: 5481

I am sure that someone out there has the complete information. I do recall some 50 years ago that I was informed that waterslide decals were essentially screenprinted using lacquers. The inks were not soluble in water and the lacquer was quite tough. It seems to me that the initial layer was clear l...
by Robert Schwieger
Thu Nov 29, 2007 6:01 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Gorilla Glue on Glass
Replies: 0
Views: 2799

Gorilla Glue on Glass

Recently while reclaiming screens I noticed an area with a photo stencil that begged to be printed before stretching new fabric. Without any guidance I squeegeed Gorilla Glue, in the traditional manner for screenprinting, onto a piece of scrap glass. It dries fairly fast and does expand slightly but...
by Robert Schwieger
Mon Nov 19, 2007 5:40 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Glue chipping tempered glass.
Replies: 5
Views: 4119

Glue chipping tempered glass.

Robert Mitchell's book on glue chipping (c.) 1985 mentions that he had not tried glue chipping tempered glass. I know that I can try this on my own but I would appreciate experiences on glue chipping tempered glass. One glass contractor stated that ( aside from the chipping) the tempered glass is ac...
by Robert Schwieger
Thu Nov 08, 2007 12:57 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Gold leaf sign
Replies: 24
Views: 15595

Gold Sign

Thanks for the informed input regarding the Woolworth glass sign. It is also interesting that the same piece went last week for over $400 and the seller noted that they would only accept money order as payment and there would be NO return privileges. Ouch.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Oct 30, 2007 11:51 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Gold leaf sign
Replies: 24
Views: 15595

Gold leaf sign

I am curious about a listing on ebay that pictures an F. W. Woolworth glass sign identifying a store's entrance. It is listed as turn of the century glass gold leaf sign. I am wondering about the word "ENTRANCE" which is done in Optima font. Optima was created in the l950's. Any thoughts? ...
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Oct 24, 2007 5:08 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Sandblast hazard
Replies: 6
Views: 5260

Hello Mike,

Thanks for the information. I have been using aluminum oxide. Did I read your note correctly that the aluminum oxide is heavier than the silica therefore it is the better choice?

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Oct 24, 2007 1:17 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Sandblast hazard
Replies: 6
Views: 5260

Sandblast hazard

Yikes! Saw an item on the web regarding the hazardous practice of using sand to blast surfaces presumably also including glass prior to glue chipping. The warning included the risk of silicosis regardless of measures taken to prevent inhalation, namely respirator and an enclosed blasting cabinet. Ne...
by Robert Schwieger
Mon Oct 22, 2007 11:57 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Bar Panels
Replies: 14
Views: 8989

Truly remarkable and an inspiration to all of us. Continue to post these images so that we can all enjoy this work of a master.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Fri Oct 19, 2007 11:45 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Glue (chip) prep
Replies: 23
Views: 14728

Glue (chip) prep

Just curious about the better course in preparing hide glue for glue chipping. Which is better? Using mocrowave, overheated or underheated without relying on thermometer. Currently allowing the glue to "bubble-up" but not over. Sometimes small particles remain. Is it worthwhile to continue...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Sep 25, 2007 5:02 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Compressor system
Replies: 3
Views: 2802

Compressor system

Having used an airbrush and aluminum oxide for etching glass prior to glue chipping I would like to graduate to a less labor intensive and more reliable system. Since I am not interested in descaling ships this needs to be a practical compressor that provides air supply that is consistent, fits into...
by Robert Schwieger
Fri Aug 24, 2007 11:42 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Steel wool and black outlines
Replies: 1
Views: 2086

Steel wool and black outlines

Previous entries indicated that back-up black enamel plus 5% hardener when used as the black outlines prior to gilding (on glass) was burnished down with #0000 steel wool (to soften the edges prior to gilding and thus avoid the "bridge" which refused the gold). This assumes that the black ...
by Robert Schwieger
Sun Aug 19, 2007 4:57 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Black on gold jobs
Replies: 4
Views: 3355

Thanks for the advice. It will ease the strain down the line. It reminds me of my old friend and mentor Glenn Thomspson (Steve Parrish era) who used brushing lacquer for quick jobs. They always came out GREAT. By the way, since I have been out of the mainstream for several decades, what is the "...
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Aug 15, 2007 5:00 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Black on gold jobs
Replies: 4
Views: 3355

Black on gold jobs

Avoiding varnish on glass backup makes sense and also produces a cleaner appearance. Having used a mixture of 1-Shot Black and Japan Black for drop shades and also for outlining, does this mixture weaken the black? I have heard of concerns with new formulas. The Japan is used to provide a more opaqu...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Aug 14, 2007 11:49 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Glass gold sealer
Replies: 4
Views: 3724

Glass gold sealer

With information bouncing around regarding blistering and other failures of gold on glass I am wondering what IS the recomended final clear sealer. Years ago I was advised ( and used) DuPont DUCO Clear Automotive for the final sealer. It held up well but unfortunately it is no longer available. Your...
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Jul 04, 2007 10:10 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Glue chip: heat vs cold
Replies: 2
Views: 2352

Glue chip: heat vs cold

Having had reasonable success with glue chipping, still experiementing, I still seek guidance regarding a step in the process: Working in high humidity area. Glass is blasted and glue ( best grade) is prepared using 1:1 up to 1:2 (glue/water by volume). Heated and applied to warm glass. 2 to four ho...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Jun 19, 2007 9:14 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Mask(s) for glass glue chipping
Replies: 5
Views: 3682

Mask(s) for glass glue chipping

For an "old timer" who still uses handcut masks for glass glue chipping please advise as to the preferred mask for chipping. Contact paper works OK but I am assuming that vinyl works as well if not better. My main concern is ease in removing the mask if its tack is too much.

Thanks

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Wed May 23, 2007 11:52 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Rick Glawson & the candy store
Replies: 8
Views: 5224

Rick Glawson Goldwork

Hello Roderick,

I don't know if this is the kind of the image or format you are looking for but Rick Glawson's P. J. Copperpot Confectionery is featured in color in Kent Smith's Gold Leaf Techniques, Fourth Edition. A full shot and a closeup of the pictorial are included.

Good Luck.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Sun Apr 29, 2007 11:11 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Glass preparation for gilding
Replies: 4
Views: 4382

Glass preparation for gilding

Having been away from glass gilding for some years but having success with current gilding I am wondering if there are any updated methods of preping glass for gilding. Have used Prep-sol, Bon Ami, Cerium Oxide. I have also used the flourescent mineral light to detect "tin side". What can ...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Apr 03, 2007 4:26 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Etching cream vs sandblasting on glass
Replies: 11
Views: 47938

Yes, I forgot to mention that the use of the etch cream was a prelude to the glue chipping. I would agree, after trying some side-by-side tests that the etching cream produces a smooth ( and frosted) surface and does not provide adequate abrasion for succesful chipping to follow. It does chip but on...
by Robert Schwieger
Tue Apr 03, 2007 11:04 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Etching cream vs sandblasting on glass
Replies: 11
Views: 47938

Etching cream vs sandblasting on glass

How come glass etching cream does not work reliably when used in place of sandblasting the glass? The etching cream is nice for small quick jobs but I have found that it is not as reliable in producing a consistent chip. Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Mon Mar 26, 2007 10:09 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Silver on Glass Variation
Replies: 2
Views: 2440

Hi Mike, Sorry I left out the part that the silver is overcoated with copper to protect it ( this appears to be the standard in commercial mirror production) thus the perchloride attacks the copper and lifts the silver in this operation. I look forward to your product for silver removal. Stay well. ...
by Robert Schwieger
Fri Mar 23, 2007 11:57 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Endeavour to Persevere...(it's done)
Replies: 37
Views: 32923

Larry,

Simply "Beautiful" work, as usual.

I am curious about the flitter/glitter. Years ago I tried this and discovered that the glitter tarnished badly. Does the shellac you used seal and prevent future tarnish?

Thanks and continue to amaw us with your talent.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Thu Mar 22, 2007 5:14 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Silver on Glass Variation
Replies: 2
Views: 2440

Silver on Glass Variation

This might interest artists who wish to achieve silver on glass with a subtractive approach. It starts with a standard mirror. Remove protective enamel with tradtional removers(s), use gloves. After enamel lifts, clean thoroughly with Greased Lightninng or Wisk detergent. Use cotton to avoid excessi...
by Robert Schwieger
Fri Mar 16, 2007 11:46 am
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Plumley's Bar Glue chipped sign
Replies: 6
Views: 4405

Great job.

Is the pictorial painted?

Enjoy your work and appreciate the photos.

Bob
by Robert Schwieger
Wed Mar 14, 2007 4:45 pm
Forum: The Hand Lettering Forum
Topic: Plumley's Bar Glue chipped sign
Replies: 6
Views: 4405

Hello,

Where on your site is the Plumey's Bar glue chipped mirror glass sign?

Bob