Gold Leaf Wooden Sign for Leviticus Tattoo, Loughton
Traditional Signs Of London was commissioned directly by Leviticus Tattoo to complete the decorative finish for a bespoke carved timber sign at their studio in Loughton, Essex. Having undertaken numerous commissions for the business over the years, this project combined traditional signwriting with genuine gold leaf gilding to create a distinctive entrance sign befitting the studio’s established identity.
Project Brief
The client supplied a CNC-machined Accoya timber panel with V-carved lettering and the principal artwork already established. Traditional Signs Of London was responsible for preparing the panel for exterior use before applying the painted finish, surface gilding the carved lettering and adding bespoke scroll embellishments to complement the overall design.
As an exterior sign, durability was just as important as appearance, requiring a carefully built-up painted finish before any decorative work could begin.
Preparing and Gilding the Carved Panel
Although the panel had already been machined, substantial preparation was required before the decorative finishes could be applied. The Accoya timber received two coats of primer, two undercoats and two topcoats in a rich burgundy colour selected to complement the studio’s established branding.
The V-carved lettering was then surface gilded using genuine 23-carat gold leaf, allowing the bevelled edges of the carving to catch the light and create a striking contrast against the painted background. Hand-painted ivory scroll embellishments were added to frame the design before the entire sign was protected with a high-gloss exterior varnish to enhance durability and preserve the finish.
Completed Gold Leaf Wooden Sign
The completed sign provides a bold and elegant focal point at the entrance to Leviticus Tattoo, combining precision-machined timber with the warmth and character of traditional signwriting and genuine gold leaf. The contrast between the burgundy background, bright gilded lettering and hand-painted ornamentation creates a timeless appearance that reflects the craftsmanship invested in every stage of the project.
Traditional Signs Of London undertakes specialist signwriting, carved timber sign finishing, genuine gold leaf gilding and bespoke decorative lettering for businesses, heritage properties and private clients throughout London and the surrounding counties. To learn more, visit our Specialist Signwriting page or Contact us to discuss your project, or email info@traditionalsignsoflondon.uk.