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Flat Brush Chisel Writing

with Jon Bocksel of Hand Signs

 



WhenMar 28 – 29, 2026
10AM – 4PM

Tuition$530 
WhereIn Person at 
New York Sign Museum

2 Full Scholarship Seats Available


The Workshop

Join us for a 2-day weekend workshop on Flat Brush Chisel Writing with Jon Bocksel of Hand Signs at the New York Sign Museum!

This hands-on experience will be led by renowned sign painter and artist, Jon Bocksel (@handsigns.info). Flat brush writing has roots in antiquity some of which was preserved in sand or pumice in places like Pompeii and Syria. Preserved examples detail a rich history of muscle memory and practiced forms that still relate to both calligraphic and typographic forms today. Sometimes called Chisel, Shaded Writing, Truck Lettering, Brush Writing, or a myriad other terms, flat brush lettering is a classic choice for sign painters as it can be quickly written rather than rendered laboriously. With extensive experience including projects like the Chaim Soutine Exhibition lettering design (2015) and ongoing work for Lucia Pizzeria (2021-Present), and a construction truck or two floating down I-95, Jon brings a wealth of practical expertise as well as a keen interest of brush lettering throughout history. Over the course of the workshop, you'll delve into the foundational techniques of flat brush writing, and learning essential skills to create the distinctive chiseled stroke. Through practical exercises, this workshop will not only provide you with solid flat brush writing skills but also enhance your overall understanding of this powerful lettering style and include some basic layout techniques.

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your sign painting craft, or seasoned painter looking to delve into quickly written styles this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from an industry professional. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your brush skills and network with fellow sign painting enthusiasts at NYSM. 


Learning Outcomes

After spending two days with renowned sign painter and lettering artist, Jon, you’ll leave with:

  • A solid understanding of flat brush writing fundamentals and chisel stroke techniques including but not limited to NY truck style and English foundational hand.
  • Practical skills in handling a lettering brush, including proper grip and creating clean, consistent strokes.
  • A comprehensive slideshow detailing the nuances of flat brush lettering and their historical counterparts local and far.
  • The confidence and ability to produce sharp, impactful letterforms using the flat brush.


Audience and Format

This class will be held in person at the New York Sign Museum, which is housed in the working design studio and workshop of Noble Signs. It is open to all levels, beginner to advanced. This class is for those who want to brush up on their "single stroke brush writing skills."


Materials Required 

All necessary materials like paint and other tools will be supplied. Please just pack a lunch with you on both days so we can keep painting as much as possible.


Dates

Day 1: Saturday, March 28, 10AM – 4PM
Day 2: Sunday, March 29, 10AM – 4PM

Scholarship 

We are offering 2 full scholarship seats for this workshop. We’d like to reserve these spots for those passionate about typography and signage who might not be able to attend due to financial constraints. We would also like to offer the spots to those who grew up in or live in our studio’s neighborhood, East New York/Brownsville. Please fill out this Google Form to let us know why you’d like to be considered for the scholarship.The deadline for entries is January 31st at 11:59PM. Applicants will be notified 10 days before the start of the workshop. 


Policies 

  • Minimum Enrollment Policy: This workshop has a minimum enrollment. If this minimum is not met 2 weeks before the workshop start date, the workshop will be canceled, and all payments will be fully refunded to students, subject to no fee.
  • Waitlist: If the workshop is sold out, we do not offer a waitlist. Tickets will be released for sale if anyone cancels their participation. If the workshop is sold out, you can opt to get an email notification when new tickets are back in stock directly from this page.
  • Refund Policy: Full refund up to 14 days in advance of first class start date, subject to $25 administrative and processing fee.



Photos Courtesy of Jon Bocksel





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