We often use a precise CNC router to create our signs. Most sign makers I know, whether they do things by hand or with a similar machine, do their absolute best to be as perfect as possible. The result is then sanded smooth to take away any remaining bits that are handmade. The result is often beautiful but without much character. We instead purposely introduce character and texture. I program the CNC router to add surface texture, like the woodgrains, to both the front and back of the sign. The fonts are manipulated to make them appear hand-drawn. I don’t care for straight lines, and our work embraces this philosophy. Once the signs are routed and glued up, we then bring the woodgrain texture around the edges of the signs. As I studied the ’finished’ signs, I decided the lettering needed one more bit of texture. I spent a few minutes with our air-powered die grinder, taking off a teeny bit of the surface. The results added the perfect amount of hand finish. The process of hand-painting and glazing will add more character. Stay tuned…
