Fading signs of the times

Patience and careful sanding can bring an authentic, weathered look to wall advertisements. Michael Tylick

Technique notebook

• Cut the sign with a sharp razor blade and steel rule for straight edges, or scissors for curved signs.
• Put masking tape on the center of the back of the sign before sanding (as recommended by Charlie Getz of Classic Signs Ltd.) This way the edges of the sign can be sanded without wearing through the center.
• Use very fine sandpaper (400 grit) to sand the back of the sign in one direction only, stroking the paper away from you. Practice on scrap paper first.
• After the edges are thinned, remove the tape and sand the center.
• On the front side use light vertical strokes to remove the shine and layers of color. Work slowly until the desired effect is achieved.
• To further tone down the sign, use a wash of two teaspoons of India ink into one pint of rubbing alcohol. Cut the ink in half for a less weathered, lighter appearance. Always test the wash first, as some inks and toners may dissolve and run.
• Glue the signs to the wall with full strength white glue. Squeeze a glob of glue on the back of the sign and spread it to coat the entire surface.
• Use tweezers to position the sign, pat it down carefully, then allow it to set for a few minutes. Make the sign conform to the wall by forcing it into the mortar lines or other surface features with your fingernail. Working from the center toward the edges minimizes pulling and stretching on the sign.