Exhibitors to catch on the final day of The Sign Show
In our final roundup article for 2026, we spotlight some of the key exhibitors you shouldn’t miss while attending the last day of The Sign Show this year
In this article, we highlight the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass, a special area at The Sign Show 2026 which allows attendees to try their hand at methods including signwriting and leaf gilding
For the second consecutive year, The Sign Show will play host to a unique feature that pays tribute to the rich history of iconic techniques within the signage sector.
Taking place in Hall 1 of Birmingham NEC until October 1st, the exhibition will play host to a plethora of leading names in sign-making technology, as well as a broad selection of specialist suppliers.
Alongside the core exhibition, the returning Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass allows those in attendance to experience and try their hand at some of the most celebrated sign-making methods – from signwriting and screen printing on a flat table and on walls, to water and transfer leaf gilding.
Once again the area is led by David Mearns, a leading expert in traditional signage from Signmode, who is showcasing his own skills and passing on his wisdom to visitors trying out some of the techniques themselves.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chris Davies, event director of The Print Show and The Sign Show, said: “We’re delighted to welcome David back to The Sign Show and to host the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass for a second time. This was a hugely popular feature at our debut event last year and we expect the area to be just as busy this time.
“When we came up with the idea to launch The Sign Show, our focus was on delivering an event that not only showcased the latest in signage technologies and solutions but also celebrated the art of signs and allowed visitors to experience sign-making in motion. This is exactly what attendees can expect again at the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass at the show this year.”
During The Sign Show 2025, visitors were invited to help decorate a large, white background that took up two sides of the feature area. Mearns got things going by demonstrating various ways of signwriting, with visitors adding to this design under his guidance.
One of the highlights of the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass in 2025 was a hand-painted copy of The Sign Show’s logo, which, created on-site by Mearns, took pride of place at the centre of the area’s backdrop.
“David is one of the best of the business; visitors will be able to learn more about the history of the methods that are still used to create signs today,” Davies said, adding: “On top of this, the fact attendees will get the opportunity to try some techniques themselves – and leave their own mark on the show – will be an added bonus.”
As was the case in 2025, the Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass is free to attend for all visitors across both The Sign Show and The Print Show, with attendees able to drop in at any time to experience some of sign’s most celebrated crafts in action.
The Traditional Sign-Making Masterclass can be found at Stand S265, near the rear of the hall.
