An Evening with Dumfries Women’s Signwriting Squad

Join the Dumfries Women’s Signwriting Squad for an evening in the Museum exploring signs in Dumfries old and new with photographs from the museum collection and around the town. The evening will include a look at ‘ghost signs’ (old or fading signs from previous businesses which are still visible), and some examples of historic hand painted lettering present in the museum collection itself. There will be lots of opportunities for discussion and interaction throughout the evening, which will also include a hands-on introduction to hand drawn letter construction taking inspiration from the historic examples we uncover.

The Dumfries Women’s Signwriting Squad (or DWSS) have been working in and around the town since 2018, hosting monthly meet ups to share skills and work together. The group also take on commission-based work for local businesses and organisations taking on a wide variety of projects from shop front facia boards to A-frame menus and even an ice cream van!

The first part of the evening will be an informal presentation, sharing images and discoveries locally and within the Museum itself, the second part of the evening will include a hands-on introduction to lettering design and layout, taking inspiration from the pre-digital era. All materials will be provided, and no experience is necessary. If you have any examples of old signs that you would like to share as part of the event please do bring along images and photographs.

NB While the Signwriting Squad are all women, this event is open to anyone aged 12 or over.

Free event but booking required. To book your place, please email [email protected] or phone 01387 253374.