In a message dated 2/23/2006 6:08:05 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
Have any
of you restored ghost signs? Meaning, the painted advertisments
on
the sides of brick buildings which have faded over time. We are
researching three signs near our museum that we would like to restore, and
are being met with mixed reviews. Some feel we should leave them as
is,
others say we can restore them if the structure is not on any kind of
register, etc....
It would be a great help to hear if any of you
have gone through such a
process and how you went about it.
Thank
you in advance,
Holly North, Curator of Collections
The Grace
Museum
Abilene, TX
I would highly recommend that you obtain an opinion/consult with a
professional, Union signpainting shop. Ultimately, this is who you will want to
hire if you decide to restore the ghost...and will assist you in preserving it
if you decide to retain it as a ghost. And my opinion would be the latter 
.
Decades ago, when I was a teen I served as a pre-apprentice in a
Union sign shop. This was just shortly before vinyl lettering machines became
widely-used...so I had the opportunity to learn signpainting the old fashioned
way. Drawing lines and freehand lettering! (also found out that I couldn't draw
a straight line because of my astigmatism..so I had to learn to compensate for
this!)
Signpainter's are a dedicated lot and if you ask around, you'll
find the right one that will assist you in making an informed decision and
will also be able to do the work that needs to be done!
Also, although there were many signpainters who did work on their
own and freelance work too...many more worked in shops and/or were affiliated
with local shops (especially if there was a special paint, a brush or other
equipment that they needed). Some of these shops are still around today! If you
get lucky - you may find records pertaining to the original sign!
Good luck Holly!
Pam