The Learning Curve

[Paul Jukes]

Hello to all.

This is my first post and I'm very excited to have come across this forum.

I have quite a bit of experience in the post vinyl sign industry creating designs and layouts (both by hand and with various computer programs) as well as working with all types of printed and cut vinyl films, plastics, wood, sheet metal etc. both in and out of the shop.

I am extremely interested in practicing hand lettering and have heard that it takes several years before becoming any good. I am wondering how that learning curve breaks down. Is all of that time just about learning brush control or does it assume you know nothing about the materials, layout or letterforms? How long did it take before you were happy with the work you were producing? Maybe you never are.

I'm very interested in hearing about other peoples experiences learning this beautiful skill.

[erik winkler]

Paul,

Others on this forum can tell you exactly how to learn this trade.
But since you live in Canada, you may be lucky enough to be in the neighboorhood of Piere Tardiff.
He gives courses in handlettering in Quebec.
Erik

[Paul Jukes]

Thank you for the response Erik.

It is my hope that I will learn much from others on this forum. I had not yet heard of Piere Tadriff, thank you for mentioning him. I've since visited his website. I like his weathering style.

Unfortunately Canada is a very very big country and Quebec City is in my neighborhood in the same way that Salzburg is in yours. It's a ten hour drive though I'm sure I have many long travels in my future pursuing information and talent on this subject. I see you were at the Classic Design Studios workshop this year. I'd love to do that if I ever can.

[erik winkler]

It is not a wish, but a must.

[Paul Jukes]

I'll be sure to tell my wife you said so...

[Doug Bernhardt]

Welcome Paul.....You've found your way to a great forum filled with actual signpainters to help you along the way. It would be well worth while to snoop through old posts on the topics you're most interested in, using the search button contained here-in ;=)

[Paul Jukes]

Thank you Doug.

I will continue to search through. Are there any threads in particular you feel I would benefit from?

[Bob Sauls]

Paul I would love to talk to you or E-mail back and forth. My website is www.saulssigns.com
there should be enough contact info within it if you are interested. I have visited your site and it is filled with superior work you can be proud.