Sign Painting  Second Year

MODERN AND SUPPLEMENTARY ALPHABETS
A look at finished and one-stroke alphabets commonly used in the sign trade, including proper usage, advantages, and disadvantages.

SIGN DESIGN I
A more in-depth study of layout, leading to better knowledge and adherence to specific sign industry layout requirements.

SHADE TYPES AND TECHNIQUES
The study of traditional shade styles and color techniques as well as modern types of shades used in more contemporary designs.

3-DIMENSIONAL LETTERING (Realism)
An introduction to all types of dimensional lettering: bevel edge, prismatic, channel, carved, shiny, wet, metal, wood, and more.

INTRODUCTION TO AIRBRUSH
The study of airbrush techniques used in sign design: frisket usage, proper paints, and actual application in conjunction with three-dimensional lettering.

MODERN MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES
The study of pressure-sensitive, magnetic, and reflective materials; transparent paints, and cut and roll (spray) techniques complementary to today’s sign shop needs.

BULLETIN AND PICTORIAL WORK
A complete analysis from scaled sketches to the execution of the actual bulletin, including customer relations, design presentation, and cost.

Computer I
Introduction to the computer as used in the industry; production of layouts and paper patterns. Also provides an introduction to desktop publishing. Students are introduced to many sign-related programs as well as Corel Draw and Adobe Photoshop. Students design and produce signs using pounce patterns and vinyl laminates. A knowledge of vinyl types, applications, and techniques used in the sign trade is taught, and students develop a proficiency that will help them in their career.

Truck/Van & Boat Lettering II
A complete study of the evolution of truck lettering from stagecoaches to corporate vehicle imaging.  Past and present techniques covering different types of gilding (gold leaf), shading, letter styles, and layouts are studied and executed.  Contemporary truck and van design concepts are taught using today’s airbrush techniques, lettering styles, and graphics.  A concise study of factory paint finishes, the preparation of vehicle surface, and paint compatibility gives students the necessary knowledge to ensure good paint
adhesion on any surface. Care and maintenance of van/truck and boat lettering are also studied.

PERSPECTIVE LETTERING AND SHADING
An in-depth study of perspective in relation to sign design.  Covers one-, two-, and three-point application of perspective regarding letter construction and shading realism.

PINSTRIPING
The study of the history, style, and proper usage of pinstriping, from traditional carriage and truck pinstriping to the more modern asymmetrical styles.

SIGN DESIGN II
Students carry out a layout from rough conceptual design through finished sketches to actual artwork for presentation to a customer. Students solve logo design and corporate imaging probelms. They also create a complete signage system to satisfy a particular customer’s needs.

SURFACE GILDING
The history and complete study of leaf types and sizes, and their proper application to all applicable surfaces.

GLASS GILDING
The study of all phases of glass work, traditional as well as contemporary.  This course includes the application of gold, silver, and other types of leaf used in reverse glass gilding, plus mother-of-pearl application, outline, shades, matte center, textures, and maintenance.

SCREEN PROCESS PRINTING
The study of screen process printing as applicable to the sign painter. Students apply
screening onto various materials, including their own t-shirts.

COMPUTER II
Students gain valuable hands-on experience with the computer. With daily usage, they quickly learn how to create a pattern from scaled sketches. They are also taught how to use the computer for advanced laminate cutting and mask cutting. Students are also kept up-to-date on new software programs available to the sign industry. Students become proficient in designing, scanning, and outputting within a varied group of programs. In addition, they are taught to handle a customer’s complete advertising needs – business cards, menus, t-shirts, signs, truck lettering, and overall design. Students learn how to develop a good client relationship based on this ability to understand the complete realm of computer design available. Students also develop a knowledge of digital printing and wide-format layout, design, production, and pricing.

SHOP SETUP
A complete review of pricing and bidding on sign projects. Students also review estimating, billing, shop advertising, and taxes.  The ethics of the sign trade as well as current regulations and any license requirements are reviewed.