How to paint your first sign, Part 1, hand lettering beginning to end! What you need!

What you need to get started in the sign game.
I couldn't figure a way to post the photo of the aloha letters!
Ask, and I will email one to ya!
I am just making references to Amazon so you
can see the photos of this stuff…
Local stores will have lots of these things!
-10 Hex Head self tapping lag-screws
#14 x 1” long zinc or stainless (found mine at Ace Hardware) any self tapping screw that size will do, I just like these!
-3 One shot paint
www.amazon.com/One-Shot-Lette...
www.amazon.com/1-Shot-Letteri...
www.amazon.com/Shot-Letter-En...
-2 Pencils white and blue www.amazon.com/dp/B000WGRYOW/... (I don’t see a blue one on
Amazon… your local art supply will have it!
-1 Oderless Mineral Spirits www.homedepot.com/p/Klean-Str...
-2 Brushes.. #8 & #3 …. www.coastairbrush.com/proddet...
-1 Brush Oil www.coastairbrush.com/proddet...
-1 box Dixey Cups www.target.com/p/dixie-everyd...
-1 magazine… (I use a phone book.)
-4 baby food jars.. 2.5oz. (just buy the food, and feed it to your cat!)
-1 Smoothie… you CAN wait on this stuff, I rarely use it, but when I need it, (ugh!) I need it extremely! www.amazon.com/Marson-20234-S...
-1 Masking tape www.amazon.com/Scotch-General...
-1.. 1/4” Vinyl tape www.amazon.com/Custom-Shop-Fi...
jg3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTk3NTE3MjlIQVlFU1BZRlk5ViZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwODcwNzQ0MjEzTTBJUDlIUUZEUCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
-1.. (or 2) 22gauge sheet metal 12”x24” (I get them at Ace Hardware about $14 each)
-2 cans of spray paint, I really like the Rustoleum 2X (don’t get any metallic at first!) One red, and one Black.
I know this is a lot to get… but You are going to need all of it to play along
with what I am painting. Yes, you can buy different stuff and just make it
work for you and follow along your own way.. perfectly fine. It is just that
this stuff is very cool, and very workable!

[@elijaw6746]

"my custom light table" his window lolll

[@cainestyman1404]

That screw is a game changer ! I use to just pop a small hole in the spill area for it to drop back in but your way is even better !

[@RJ_Groot]

that screw trick is brilliant. So tired of that messy skin on the top. Good tips!

[@MLMguitarguy]

Love those light tables. I have one big enough to walk through. It's even on a set of runners so I can move it to the side.

[@tauruschorus]

That screw tip is final boss vibe.

[@tnastyartdaddy3127]

That was awesome lol. I like that dude's energy

[@hammeringhankaaron7468]

I am thinking what could I do for a hobby that is a bit of a lost art. This is the first video I watched and I'm glad I did! Straight and to the point this guy is.

[@renegenung2027]

Hi! Max! Excellent video! Loved the screw in the paint lid! Makes good sense and will use it on my next purchase of One Shot!

[@audreyl.8366]

Damn that screw n the lids brilliant. Great idea, helps a ton!

[@seanoflinn1]

This is amazing ! Super well done!

[@dcpowerenglish7579]

I'm a sign painter in Mexico. I love your video. great job!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Gracias Senor

[@pinknado]

I haven’t watched this video completely but I think you’re awesome and you haven’t even started painting!

[@douglasgovan6640]

Thanks for the Screw tip. You just aved me a lot of money, and time not having to get paint off my hands. Thanks again

[@brookemaniel6835]

Super helpful, this is the most knowledge in one video I could find. Thanks!

[@isaaccruz6021]

That was absolutely awesome

[@grimdrops]

You're a great teacher - thank you!

[@sarahwade9797]

Great tip with rhe screw!!

[@cindybeckwith1533]

Max, you rock! I love your presentation style, and no BS approach. I even get a kick out of your personal notes next to the list of supplies! Your vid is refreshing and fun. Something we all need-especially now. I watch an hour or two of KZbin "school" every day, you're a natural teacher. Just subbed the Chanel.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

You are awesome Cindy!

[@sylviateters-mccrae7331]

Really really glad to find your videos you’re absolutely awesome! Hope you are well 🙌

[@ivana.s.1469]

Thanks for sharing you knowledge MASTER!

[@DitchFisherBengal]

Thank you for this I really want to repaint my friends old sign for their business!

[@dixiew3505]

Excellent tech tips 💯

[@collinwestendorf5014]

Thank you for all the knowledge

[@SaintBuick]

The screw spout is really cool.

[@tessyts]

Brilliant. Thank you for the tips.

[@tommyrocker33]

Thank you kindly sir, that screw trick is a damn game changer! Appreciate it, cheers 👍

[@Lunarnightfury]

Hi Max its been along time! Its so awesome to find your channel! You inspired me to paint some signs.

[@tracysartyfartypage]

Loved all 3 parts of these videos your personality shines through an kept me watching, I'd a fair idea what to do but your tips and tricks are great thank you iv just subscribed and 👍🏼 because your so fun to watch you and are amazing at what you do 😊

[@DustyCrates81]

Good tip on the screw in the can great content

[@moemizrachi9313]

Absolutely love the paint-saving idea and of course all of the other tips on painting letters... Nice work!!!

[@earth-warrior]

I have perfected my “scrawl” or handwriting from these type of videos😁

[@FernandezCycles]

This is exactly the video I have been needing to letter up my metal flake paint work

[@ramontorres2647]

Thanks for charing your knowledge, RT from Venezuela

[@beab.5149]

You’re a genius! Thank you!!!!

[@JunkWorkshop]

Great overview! Thank you for sharing 🤙🏻

[@garyedge7093]

New hobby now tattooing is my trade but your vids have inspired a new outlet for my art brushes in the post

[@2degucitas]

I learned calligraphy in high school. In college I studied art, but had a job as a student assistant in the graphics dept., which wasn't a course, but painted signs for the college. My boss taught me so much. I earned money painting signs for a grocery store.

[@mikecondoluci53]

MAX YOUR A GREAT TEACHER THANKS

[@Silentmanu]

Hey! its awesome your work in this video, that is realley helpfull to initiate in this world of paint signs, thank you so much!

[@jakewilliamson9389]

Awesome tip on the screw! Would of never that of that. And here I’ve been breaking up stir sticks for no reason! 😏

[@Pauleazy420]

Wow I just started my pinstripe journey and I wanna try the bolt in the paint can. 🔩👍

[@dannyorsello8668]

The screw in the lid is genius! I've lost so much paint over the years trying to teach myself this trade.

[@michaelweymouth4015]

I started out on part two. Saw that and a comment about a person buying all the stuff from part 1. Mainly because I wanted to see what that witchcraft was that allowed paint without opening the can!

[@pirakoXX]

That sure IS an awesome trick!!! Thank you so much for all the info and inspiration in this video! (y) Greeting from a new sub from Denmark (y)

[@hollywalksdogs]

dude you rock! thanks for passing all this info forward. the screw top is clever

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Cool Man.

[@retroredo9850]

Im a year behind the comments. Im trying to learn lettering for craft upcycles so I dont have to buy expensive stamps and stencils. Then I just have a design everyone else has! The best tip was the screw in the can! I buy primary colors and black and white in house paint samples. I think I can still do your screw metod starting a hole with a drill. I'll be watching part 2. And I subscribed!

[@IslandPearl73]

GREAT SHIRT!!

[@arlenmargolin4868]

I like the idea of putting oil in your brushes to keep them soft but if you're using any rubber based paints or latex believe it or not rubbing in a little gojo hand cleaner works pretty well at keeping your brushes from getting hard

[@mrkrause3]

Great tips!

[@doubtfuldog]

Very helpful thanks. New subscriber!

[@frankrizzo7781]

That screw trick is the pro tip saves you a lot of paint.

[@cordelldarkling3190]

Been watching your videos all night! You’re a great teacher man! I thought I’d suggest maybe making a Facebook page, just an an option for sharing work. Thanks!!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I would love to.... and an Instagram too! I just don't have the time!

[@ramontorres2647]

I'll be honest the screw tecnique is a very good idea.

[@MillionPM]

Awesome. I am soooooo happy i found your channel.

[@pippashaw8224]

Hi Max some guys drop a large bolt into the can to help mix the paint, like a rattle can.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Oops.. i know that trick for other things like inks that I use. And never once thought of putting them in paint. Excellent tip, I will start now.

[@tr7198]

For sign lettering on an immovable object do you recommend a pounce pattern and a perforator and a mall stick ? Great idea with the screw in the paint can.

[@johnny5fingers0966]

You an get carbon paper and spirit transfer paper at hobby lobby or online for really cheap. Makes transferring your design much easier

[@dominiquefrancois3419]

merci !!

[@dohctorzc]

Your the man screw in the can is gangster 😎

[@woogdesigns]

This is amazing man. Thanks so much. Love the screw in the lid idea. I’m assuming it will work with latex/acrylic house paints as well.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Seems like it will work! You will need a big assed screw I suppose! Interesting!

[@woogdesigns]

@@maxkilbourne3142 for clarification I use it to print window splashes and I get some primary/secondary colors for mixing and it’s a mess trying to pour out of those cans. That will help a lot. a lot of times I’ll get the pint or quart mistints too. Gonna try that one shot on glass and see how it does for more permanent signage.

[@douglas9811]

thank you so much!!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

You bet!

[@thedarkside_ofmartha]

❤️

[@rsanders219]

I use transmission fluid for brush oil

[@bee-u-tifuladventures4771]

Great video to get started. I do have a question though. First, I've tried all of the local art supply stores around me to find the things on your list. Noone around here carries brushes (lettering and/or pinstriping) locally. I always try to shop and support local businesses first. So, now I am online looking at supplies. The various lettering brushes alone leave me more confused than when I even started. All the different model #s and different names. I am guessing that some of the names maybe stem from famous artists that use them? Okay, my question is....would you be interested in doing a video explaining the various brush types and how they are used for different reasons? This may help clear up things for new users like me.

[@AbC-hh8vg]

Every time you squeeze your pushing paint and air out. When the can retracts it sucks a bit of air back in. Maybe it’s not exposed to as much oxygen so it limits the amount of hardening.

[@jaked9191]

Subscribed!

[@timheller5929]

ok man! I just ordered all that stuff! lol I hope to be painting soon! one question, when you cut the paint are you using the mineral spirits? thanks for the videos

[@ramontorres2647]

Baby food jars, old school just like my dad used to work!

[@isaaccruz6021]

My life has changed forever

[@audieriomarinho]

❤

[@bustinclouds2007]

Miss jumpin with ya old friend....Timmy

[@graememorgan1926]

I use olive oil on my brushes. Works great.

[@heyb6268]

If you have large cans of paint that you won’t be getting into frequently you can use bloxygen. It’s Argon gas that sits on top of the paint and creates a barrier between the paint and the air (oxygen) - the screw tip is a good idea though. But air definitely still gets in there

[@bobrocco4218]

Not enough air gets in to create a skim if done right. Follow Max's directions and you're good to go.

[@arlenmargolin4868]

I knew plenty of football players that never owned a football the boss always seem to have one on the job

[@Dano86]

Does 1-Shot paint work well as a base? I figured I could use 1-Shot as a base instead of a spray can so, if I F it up, I can just come back with my base color and fix the edges or just paint over a whole word.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I can see that as a way of fixing mistakes..... in other mediums! Rarely ever considered it in sign painting. (If I understand what you are thinking). In short; the way to fix mistakes (edges) is to wipe them back, and then restroke them. And in the case of a total fuck-up, to wipe the entire word (or section) and start over. Does this answer your question? (One Shot 'could' be used as a base... But I would never do that due to drying times, and some other things).

[@jeffdeluca1153]

Is there a reason you recommend blue vs black stabilo pencils? Thx

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I never used a black one before. Sometimes blue is a little difficult to get clean. I imagine it would be worse with black. Whatever works best for people is the best for them.

[@williamcollins2051]

Sorry if I missed this, but what do you use to attach the D rings/hangers to the back of the metal?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I should have said that in here! I use JB Weld! I used to use Gorilla epoxy... but it started coming undone on some of my stuff!

[@williamcollins2051]

@@maxkilbourne3142 Thank you sir!

[@donmarchini43]

Looks like smoothie was taken off the market-do you recommend a substitute?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I haven't used Smoothie in so long.. didn't know it was gone. I rarely every did need to use it! But, when I did, it was pretty important. I won't be doing the homework on the substitute till I need some. So... to answer your question: No.

[@sharonrearick2704]

I am a decorative glass painter. Wine glasses, salt, pepper, creamer, sugar, butter sets. I am trying out the 1 shot lettering enamel. What do you suggest would be the best brushes.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

For OneShot, I am a big fan of the Mack 179L series... But for painting the little stuff that you will be painting on... hmmm... Not sure what the best would be!!! I guess it would depend on the type of stroke/look you are going for.

[@sharonrearick2704]

@@maxkilbourne3142 I can email you pictures of a few of things i’ve painted if that would help

[@maxkilbourne3142]

I would love to see them! [e-mail] break 'em out!

[@billemery9547]

Loved the video Max. Bought everything on the list. What is the best way to break in the new brushes?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

You may have to check out some other videos for this... Because the only way I can think of breaking in a new brush is to use the S#I+ out of it!!!!

[@billemery9547]

@@maxkilbourne3142 T hats the plan. I am having trouble with the both the #3 and #8 bulging up in the middle and wont lay flat. I thought this was due to them being new.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

What you are describing, sounds like it may be normal! Have you painted anything with them yet??? Because a new brush looks goofy new, but once you wet it and paint, it works fine. If you'd like, send me a photo! ([e-mail]).

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Or, something is wrong with them... (uncommon).

[@billemery9547]

@@maxkilbourne3142 Thanks Max, I think it may be I still need to learn to load the brush better. I will play with it.

[@parabellum1130]

I have oil based enamel laying around that is rustolium brand ... would that work the same as 1shot till i get that

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Nope! It will not work well, and then eat up your brushes. Be patient and wait for your one shot. Learning to paint is hard enough. Don't make it more difficult using poopy stuff.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Nope! It will not work well, and then eat up your brushes. Be patient and wait for your one shot. Learning to paint is hard enough. Don't make it more difficult using poopy stuff.

[@mikecoe720]

Really enjoyed your tutorial. Dumb question. I tried using 1 shot over rustoleum flat spray and the paint ran, seeped beyond the letter. So, I should be using gloss paint? Again, truly liked your demonstration and explanation and helpful hints. Thank You!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Real good question Mike!! I've seen what you are talking about. I need to know, What is the Rustoleum painted on to? Metal? wood? Usually when paint runs like that, it is because the paint itself is going on to thin for what you are painting on, and/or there are tiny grooves in the substrate! I am really curious what you have going on there! Curious because I have a car coming up that I will be pinstriping, and it is painted with a 'semi-gloss' paint, (and it is white!). So I am excited to learn what has happened to your job........ let me know!!!!

[@mikecoe720]

Hi Max. The surface I am using is metal from Lowes, identical to what you are using, but 24 x 36 inches. Lettering is FIREWOOD with the phone number below. The paint bled, ran almost immediately. Its possible my paint was too thin, but I think the flat paint had something to do with it. My surface was not as smooth as it should have been. I finished one letter and decided to resurface, so I wiped the letter off and let it dry. Today I have re-sanded and repainted both sides with white semi gloss rustoleum. I am lettering both sides of the metal. I will also be more mindful of my paint. Hope to know if this has a good result within a couple of days, though I do expect it to be fine. As soon as I know I will advise you. I hope this is helpful.

[@maxkilbourne3142]

@@mikecoe720 It really is helpful! And I would appreciate a photo too!!!

[@mikecoe720]

@@maxkilbourne3142 Max, I have one side lettered. The semi gloss rustoleum paint took the 1 shot paint well with no issues. The surface was very smooth so I think that made the difference, I think the flat paint was the problem. I worked on a flat table, not verticle at all. I need to let the one side cure before I can letter the reverse side. FYI, my sign painting days were in the early 70s mostly for friends who had businesses. I think the 1 shot paint I used back then had lead in it and it did a great job on exterior work. It was just a hobby for me, but it gave me some extra spending money. The sign I'm doing now is for my son in law, so I had to refresh my skills (plus my eyesight isn't what it used to be). I still enjoy doing it. I really admire your work and skills (and your tattoo work is awesome). Not sure how I can get a picture to you... when I figure it out, I will. Thanks for your comment. Again, you should have no problem working with the semi gloss. Good Luck!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Awesome Mike, thanks Pal.

[@BeckyAngelix]

Where do you find all these supplies? A regular art store or a hardware store?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

My favorite places to shop are Amazon and Coast Airbrush. (Coast sells lots of sign stuff).

[@BeckyAngelix]

​@@maxkilbourne3142 Thanks for the answer! I ordered everything through Dragging the Line :) I was happy to find a small Canadian sign painting supplier.

[@tekkhadka6861]

Hello sir I am frome nepal what is name of brush oil plz help me

[@christopherjones6016]

I have a job painting logo on a storefront window. Inside, is an obstacle making it difficult to paint in reverse. Is it ok to paint the logo on the outside of the window pane?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Yes, it is okay to paint on the outside.. BUT! Now the logo will be subject to anyone who comes along and wants to mess with it. If it is higher, (out-of-reach), not so bad. But if you are going to spend a lot of time on it... it needs to be inside. There are lots of things to consider when doing windows. Does it get direct sunlight, does the business stay open after dark, stuff like that. One thing to consider is doing the logo on a thin piece of plex, and hanging it just inside glass. Lots of options. I personally never did many business windows. If I did now, I would tell the client to think about a vinyl sticker. Lasts longer, and sticks better. Though hand painting is extremely cool, it doesn't always work best in all situations.

[@christopherjones6016]

@@maxkilbourne3142 So, they have vinyl, and hate it! It's in direct sunlight (2) existing logos. One in white the other painted with gold leaf paint. I'm testing out now on a pane to see if laying down white and going over with gold leaf paint will work better than the gold leaf paint straight on the glass.Your vids are really good full of valuable tips. THANKS!!!

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Wow! Okay. We are both learning here! Please let me know how it comes out.

[@trungnghia7]

I can not find any Oneshot paint in my place, is there any alternative one?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Not that I know of. But I have been out of the game for a long time. I do know that you can buy some from Amazon.

[@laurenenglish6573]

What a brilliant idea ... screw it x

[@johngriffon2118]

what kind of hangers do you use?

[@maxkilbourne3142]

Hey John. Here are the hangers I use for the metal signs. I am going to do all of this in a video soon, but simple enough! It won't let me post photos in here, so I am sending links so you can see...www.amazon.com/FUCAS-Picture-Hangers-Hanging-Double/dp/B077LNYCMK/ref=sr_1_18_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=frame+hangers&qid=1609415183&sr=8-18-spons&psc=1&smid=A2AHU1VYRZS7AW&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNU9SNVlGVUZZU0Y3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjQ0ODkyMkZHS1RTU0ZBMzk0RiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwOTEzNjMwMkVLN0s1M1lUMjJMUCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= they come in different sizes... I just get little ones. and I glue them to the metal using J-B WELD. I tried other glues, they made me unhappy !

[@johngriffon2118]

@@maxkilbourne3142 Thanks. Recently made my first sign as a gift for my in laws to hang on there mailbox after watching this group of videos. Getting a pinstriping brush in the mail this week after watching some other videos of yours and others. Great stuff and alot of fun to learn.

[@dannywells8427]

I was with you until you started shouting at the end, man that was horrible