Andrew Lawrence started Gentleman Scholar Signs to preserve the art of sign painting. The shop focuses on traditional techniques honoring the past while pushing the craft forward into the future. Located in a private studio on the cusp of San Francisco’s Mission and Potrero Hill neighborhoods, Gentleman Scholar Signs strives to uplift the aesthetic value of the community. Andrew typically works with local, small businesses but has also worked few corporate and private clients as well. Feel free to reach out to Andrew for any work large or small where fine hand lettering is desired.

Notes & FAQ

Notes: I only use sign grade MDO (Medium Density Overlay – a type of exterior grade plywood) for signs that will be outdoors and One Shot sign paint. This means that your signs should last for years and age gracefully. Interior signs vary in material depending on the clients needs. I can paint on anything including paper, board, glass, stucco, rough and smooth brick or walls, plastic (usually) and metal. For Gold Leaf Gilding I only use American and imported leaf from reputable suppliers and with proper care, a gild (gold leaf sign) can last for decades.

FAQ

1. How do I order a sign?

First, you get in touch with me at gentlemanscholarsigns@gmail.com or simply call 415-724-9512 (if I don’t pick up right away feel free to leave a message or text me). Please look at #2 before you call though…

2. What information do I need to give you in order to get an estimate or a bid?

Size (dimensions), colors, design, font or text type, copy (words on the sign), materials, deadline and budget help me get an idea of what you need and then I can give you an honest estimate. If you have a design, great! If you don’t then we can work together to come up with something to meet your needs. Knowing your budget is very important because then I can work within it and come up with a sign that everyone is happy with. (see the checklist below)

3. I don’t know where to start in regards to design, can you help me?

Sure! Just describe what you want and send over a few photos or links to signs that you like.

4. I don’t own a business, will you still make me a sign?

Of course! Refer back to #1 & #2 to get started.

5.How long does it take to get a sign?

Well, that really depends. If it is onsite and I have the time on my schedule and you have the design, then fast! If we are starting from scratch with no design, then typically a week or two. If you have a rush job, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Just remember, every letter takes a few strokes to construct and that each sign is crafted with care. Quality work takes time, but a quality sign can last for years and far outlast a quick cheaply produced sign.

6. I’m not located in San Francisco, can you still make me a sign?
Yes! Shipping can be tricky, but it can be done.

7. What are these gold leaf signs that you do? Are they expensive?

Placing Gold Leaf on a sign or object is referred to as gilding and was brought to America via England by a man named John J. Edward in 1849. Today, gilders still use the same technique of laying gold leaf as they did back then. Nothing says more about achievement, success and elegance than a gold leaf window or sign. Due to the recent spikes and price fluctuation of gold, yes, it has become more expensive in recent years however it is still affordable for many businesses.

Checklist

-Size/Dimensions
-Color
-Design
-Font or Type
-Materials or Surface
-Budget
-Deadline

(If you don’t have all of these, then don’t worry. I’m here to help!)

Feel free to reach me at

gentlemanscholarsigns@gmail.com

or call 415-724-9512

Or just fill out this simple form to get in touch!

[contact-form-7 id=”105″ title=”Contact form 1″]

Taken from a turn of the century sign catalog