I have a design that I would like to use smalts on. How should I get started? This is my first post!
Posted by Kissymatina (Member # 2028) on :
Call Letterhead Sign Supply, Ron & Kristi and get a sample pack of colors. Great people, very helpful and merchants here. www.letterheadsignsupply.com
The colors on the screen aren't exactly what they look like in real life.
Posted by Kristi Percell (Member # 255) on :
Hello Jonathan,
We would be happy to send you a smalt color sample pack, and answer any questions you might have.
You can call us at 800-531-3359 or email your address to custserv@letterheadsignsupply.com
Have a great day!
Kristi
Posted by Matthew Rolli (Member # 4089) on :
Definetely Call Kristi,
They were gracious enough to allow the Tomahawk, WI meet to have a sample packet of the different colors. I'd always suggest a sample be made prior to experimenting on a customer. Unless they're made aware of your newness. Nothing wrong with being honest. Some of our customers are fascinated with the process.
Here's a basic explanation: 1. mix 50/50 lettering enamel (same color as smalts) with Smith's Cream 2. evenly coat the surface to be smaltzed (Nice and Thick!) 3. Shake on 2-3' from sign (we just use a coffee can with holes in it) 4. Allow to dry overnight 5. Flip sign and tap back (save that good stuff to reuse) 6. Stand back in awe.....
Sometimes we follow-up with a sprayed coat of frog-juice, or touch up any missed spots.
GOOD LUCK, it's a great finishing technique to have your customers gain stopping power!
-matthew
Posted by Kissymatina (Member # 2028) on :
To add to what Matthew said, don't try to do a large area at once. Until you get used to the working time of the paint/smith's creme mixture, it's best to take your time. Say you're doing a sign 1'x3'. Coat the first foot of the length, sprinkle smalts on say 10" of that, now coat 2nd foot, sprinkle smalts, staying couple inches from the edge of your coating. Coat last foot & finish putting smalts on all of it.
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
PS.....DON'T add smalt right up to the letters!!!!! Leave at least 1/8 inch arond the letters smalt free.
Easy way is to outline all the letters with a thick outline and let it dry...then do the smalt.
Posted by Jonathan Stumbo (Member # 4245) on :
Thanks for everybody's help on smalts. My materials came in yesterday and I'm going to start working on some samples. Wish me luck!
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