Global origins and ethos
The Letterheads, self-styled “Keepers of the Kraft,” began in the mid-1970s when a handful of sign-painting apprentices in Denver got together to learn traditional signmaking and exchange tips. Over the ensuing decades, the movement has expanded organically: aside from one annual International Meeting, numerous regional gatherings and countless informal meet-ups carry forward the spirit of sharing skills and techniques. There is no formal membership or proprietary structure—anyone with a passion for hand-crafted signage is welcome, and many gatherings don’t even use the “Letterheads” name yet uphold the same ethos of “live and let live” and mutual learning. (theletterheads.com)
supporters and sponsors
Format of Letterheads meetings
Frequency: One main international gathering each year, plus regional and smaller local meets.
Format: Typically a three-day workshop-style event where participants demonstrate and practise skills, swap hints and tricks, and build industry connections—often accompanied by social events.
Emphasis: Hands-on demonstrations and peer-to-peer learning in traditional crafts still critical to the sign industry. (theletterheads.com)
Letterheads Australia
History
The Australian branch dates back to 1994, when the first meet was held at SmartArtz in Wagga Wagga, NSW, under host John Rigby. Since then, the meet has travelled state to state—Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and beyond—always guided by a local host.
Purpose and community
An informal annual gathering of signwriters and craftspeople from across Australia and abroad, united under the banner “The Keepers of the Craft.”
Aims to share ideas, tricks and friendship while preserving and advancing hand-crafted sign methods.
Skills and workshops
Australian meets consistently feature live demonstrations and hands-on sessions in:
Traditional signwriting (brush lettering, sign layouts)
Traditional gold leaf application
Pinstriping and scrollwork
Airbrushing and faux marbling effects
Ticket writing and alphabet work
Sandblasting techniques and other decorative finishes (wideformatonline.com.au, imagemagazine.com.au)
Recent and upcoming events
28th Annual (October 13–15, 2023): Held at RETROLINE in Girraween, Sydney, hosted by Roger & Felicity Warsop. Drew attendees from Australia, New Zealand and the USA, with international tutors including Gustavo Ferrari (Argentina), David Kynaston (Wales), Todd Hanson (Ohio), Jasper Andries (Netherlands) and Adrian Marchio (Sydney). Sponsors included Andrew Mack Brush Co., Anest Iwata Australia, Airbrush Megastore, ASGA, Butterfly Gold, Colourmaker Industries, Hare & Forbes Machinery House and Signrite Online.
Letterheads 2024 (October 24–26, 2024): Took place in Mandurah, WA, over three days of traditional signwriting, gold leaf, pinstriping, airbrushing, lettering and sandblasting.
30th Annual (September 11–13, 2025): To be hosted by Danielle Corti, Head Teacher Signs & Graphics at TAFE NSW Wollongong Campus (Block O), Foleys Lane/Lysaght Street entry. Will showcase top Australian and international craftspeople in signwriting, airbrushing, gold leaf, pinstriping, marbling, faux effects and more. Sponsorship packages were available until June 27, 2025, with contact Danielle Corti on 0410 235 480.
How to get involved
Facebook: Join the Letterheads Australia group for announcements and registration forms: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LetterheadsAustralia/ (wideformatonline.com.au)
Hosting: Any signwriter or studio with suitable facilities can host a meet; guidance is available through the global Letterheads website’s “How To Host A Meeting” section. (theletterheads.com)
Participation: Open to anyone—from first-year apprentices to industry veterans—who owns a basic sign kit and is keen to learn or share techniques in a collegial environment.
Whether you’re looking to refine hand-lettering finesse or delve into decorative finishes, Letterheads Australia offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the custodians of signwriters’ craft and keep these traditional skills alive.