Sign writing has changed considerably since I entered the trade in 1979. Hand-painted lettering has largely made way for computer-cut vinyl, digital printing and modern sign-making materials, but the principles of good signage remain the same.

A sign still needs to be clear, well designed and appropriate for the business it represents.

I’m Leigh from Sign Art in Newton Abbot. With 47 years of experience in sign writing, design and print, I help local businesses create professional signs and vehicle graphics that get them noticed for the right reasons.

What does a sign writer actually do?

Traditional sign writers were best known for painting lettering by hand. Today, the work covers a much wider range of services, including:

• Shop signs and fascias
• Van signwriting and vehicle graphics
• Magnetic vehicle signs
• Pavement signs and A-boards
• Printed banners
• Business cards and promotional print
• Replacement and updated signage

Modern equipment makes production faster, but it does not replace experience. Good spacing, suitable colours, readable lettering and a balanced layout still depend on having an eye for design.

Van signwriting and vehicle graphics

Your van is one of the most visible advertising spaces your business owns. Once it has been signwritten, it promotes your business while you are working, travelling or parked outside a job.

Van graphics do not need to cover the entire vehicle to be effective. A simple layout featuring your business name, services, telephone number and website can provide everything a potential customer needs.

For businesses wanting a stronger visual presence, a more complete graphics package can incorporate branding, larger lettering and printed images. Every design should suit the shape of the vehicle and remain easy to read on the road.

Magnetic signs for flexible vehicle branding

Magnetic signs are a practical option when permanent vehicle graphics are unsuitable. They are particularly useful for taxis, private hire vehicles, temporary businesses or anyone using the same vehicle for work and personal journeys.

They can be fitted and removed quickly without permanent alteration to the vehicle. Both the sign and the vehicle surface should be kept clean and dry, and the magnets should be removed regularly to prevent dirt or moisture from becoming trapped underneath.

Signs for shops, offices and local businesses

Your main business sign is often the first thing a customer sees. It needs to identify the business clearly while creating the right impression.

At Sign Art, we produce signage for shops, offices, restaurants, trades and other independent businesses across Newton Abbot and the surrounding areas.

Options include aluminium composite signs, sign trays and traditional wooden boards. The most suitable choice will depend on the building, required appearance, available space and budget.

The materials may have changed since I started sign writing, but good lettering and layout remain just as important.

A-boards and pavement signs

Not every business has a large shop frontage. An A-board can help cafés, shops, salons, market traders and other businesses make better use of the space outside their premises.

Pavement signs are useful for displaying:

• Opening hours
• Daily offers
• Directions
• Menus
• Special events
• New products or services

The message should be brief and easy to understand. People walking past rarely stop to read a large amount of text.

Printed banners for events and promotions

PVC banners provide an affordable way to advertise temporary events, sales, open days and seasonal promotions.

They can be produced in a range of sizes and used both indoors and outside. A good banner should have a clear headline, strong contrast and only the information needed to prompt the next step.

Trying to fit too much onto a banner usually makes it less effective, particularly when it needs to be read from a distance.

Business cards and printed marketing materials

A business card may be small, but it still represents your business. Poor design, tiny text or overcrowded information can make even an expensive card feel unprofessional.

A successful business card normally includes your name, business name, telephone number, email address and website. Additional information can be added where useful, but the design should remain clear and easy to read.

Different card stocks, laminated finishes and folded formats are available depending on how the card will be used.

Choosing a sign writer in Newton Abbot

When choosing someone to produce your signage, look beyond the lowest price. Ask to see examples of completed work and make sure they understand design as well as production.

An experienced sign writer should help you decide:

• What information needs to be included
• Which type of sign is appropriate
• Which materials will suit its location
• How large the lettering needs to be
• Which colours will provide good visibility
• How to achieve the best result within your budget

You do not need to understand sign-making terminology before getting in touch. A large part of my job is helping customers work out what they need and explaining the available options clearly.

Fifty years of sign writing experience

I started sign writing in 1979, when lettering was drawn and painted by hand. Today, I combine that traditional understanding of lettering and layout with modern sign-making and printing methods.

Whether you need straightforward van lettering, a new shop sign, magnetic vehicle signs or printed promotional material, the aim is always the same: clear design, sound advice and a professional finish.

Sign Art works with businesses throughout Newton Abbot, Torquay, Totnes, Teignmouth and the surrounding areas of South Devon.

If you have a sign or vehicle graphics project in mind, contact Sign Art to discuss the options.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a sign writer and a sign maker?

A sign writer traditionally painted lettering by hand. A modern sign maker may design and manufacture vehicle graphics, shop signs, banners and other printed signage. In practice, the two terms now overlap considerably.

Is van signwriting worthwhile for a small business?

Yes. Even a simple design can display your business name and contact details wherever the vehicle travels. It also helps a working vehicle appear more professional and established.

Do vehicle graphics need to cover the whole van?

No. Clear, well-positioned lettering can be highly effective without covering the entire vehicle. The right approach depends on your budget, branding and the impression you want to create.

Can magnetic signs damage vehicle paintwork?

Properly used magnetic signs should not damage sound paintwork. The vehicle and the back of the magnet must be kept clean, and the signs should be removed regularly so moisture and grit do not collect underneath.

Which type of shop sign should I choose?

That depends on the building, available space, required appearance and budget. We can explain the different materials and recommend an appropriate option after discussing the project.

Can you help if I do not already have a design?

Yes. You do not need to supply finished artwork. Sign Art can help organise the wording, colours and layout so the finished sign is clear and suitable for your business.