For the second consecutive year, The Sign Show will play host to a unique feature that pays tribute to the rich history of iconic techniques within the signage sector.
Located within the hall, the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass will once again allow those in attendance to experience and try their hand at some of the most celebrated sign-making methods – from sign-writing and screen printing on a flat table and on walls, to water and transfer leaf gilding.
Once again, the area will be led by David Mearns, a leading expert in traditional signage from Signmode, who will showcase his own skills and pass on his wisdom to visitors trying out some of the techniques themselves.
“We’re delighted to welcome David back to The Sign Show and to host the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass for a second time,” says Chris Davies, event director of The Print Show and The Sign Show, adding: “This was a hugely popular feature at our debut event last year and we expect the area to be just as busy this time.
“When we came up with the idea to launch The Sign Show, our focus was on delivering an event that not only showcased the latest in signage technologies and solutions but also celebrated the art of signs and allowed visitors to experience sign-making in motion. This is exactly what attendees can expect again at the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass at the show this year.”
During The Sign Show 2025, visitors were invited to help decorate a large, white background that took up two sides of the feature area. Mearns got things going by demonstrating various ways of sign-writing, with visitors adding to this design under his guidance.
One of the highlights of the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass was an incredibly copy of The Sign Show’s logo, which, created on-site by Mearns, took pride of place at the centre of the area’s backdrop.
“David is one of the best of the business; visitors will be able to learn more about the history of the methods that are still used to create signs today,” Davies says, adding: “On top of this, the opportunity to try some techniques themselves – and leave their own mark on the show – will be an added bonus.”
As was the case in 2025, the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass will be free to attend for all visitors across both The Sign Show and The Print Show, with attendees able to drop in at any time to experience some of sign’s most celebrated crafts in action.
