Sign Writing, Shop Fronts and Gold Leaf

I have been sign writing for 29 years. Examples of recently completed shop front signs can be seen at Fred J. Malcolm Diamond Merchants, Belfast, Robinson’s Bars Belfast, and The Empire Bar Belfast. Many other examples are shown in my portfolio.
The Victoriana sign shown in the video, was sign-painted in the traditional way, and then gilded with 23.5ct. gold leaf. Using this technique, a very impressive sign can be produced which will make your business stand out from the crowd. A genuine gold leaf sign in sunlight will light up in an exceptional way, and at night under lights, the same brilliance can be achieved.
Gold leaf, applied correctly, will outshine and outlast any vinyl or plastic imitation, and doesn’t cost the earth.
If you are on a budget, ask for a quote for a traditional enamel sign, they usually take no more than one day to complete and the design consultation is free.

Presidents’ and Captains’ Boards

Various golf clubs, bowling clubs, rugby clubs and societies have honours boards dating back for decades. These valuable pieces are usually up-dated every year with new Captains and prizewinner names applied using 23.5ct. gold leaf. If this is what you are looking for then you have come to the right website – I currently update boards for many of Northern Ireland’s top golf clubs, as well as overseeing restorations and bespoke replica boards. The Royal Belfast Golf Club, Shandon Park Golf Club, The Royal County Down, Bangor Golf and many more, have been satisfied clients of mine for many years. Further examples can be seen in my portfolio. For a quotation give me a call or drop me an e-mail… and keep your Captain happy!

Painting - original art

Long before I got into sign writing, I was drawing and painting just for the love of it.

To day it has become more of a vocation. Art is one of those things that if you love it and keep doing it, you just keep getting better at it with age. Nearly everything I paint these days – whether it is a family portrait, dog portrait, a landscape, seascape or a 90ft wall mural – is painted to order. Examples can be seen in my portfolio. Prices range from around £200 to £5,000. I tend to specialize in large pieces, so if you are interested don’t be shy and ask for a quotation – you might be pleasantly surprised! Likenesses of people and pets are guaranteed or you have nothing to pay.

  • Gary Orr was contracted to gild the hand carved wooden lettering on the front of our Edwardian, listed, city centre shop front.  It was important that the sign reflect the prestigious nature of our business.   As we open in a busy city centre six days a week   Gary worked outside of business hours to accommodate us and was   extremely timely, efficient and tidy in his working practice.     The effect of the letters covered in 23.5ct gold leaf was outstanding and represented excellent value for money.   I would not hesitate to employ Gary Orr again and would highly recommend him for any sign writing and gilding.

    Neil Watt
    Managing Director,
    Fred J Malcolm,
    Diamond Merchants,
    Belfast
  • On behalf of Down District Council and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Gary Orr Signs delivered a large scale mural at Downpatrick Racecourse depicting the key attractions along the St. Patrick’s Trail driving route between Bangor, Newry, Downpatrick and Armagh.

    Gary’s enthusiasm for the project was echoed in his professional approach, dedication and sharp eye for detail.  Gary is inspirational and very professional and can be relied on to deliver a quality product.

    Stephen Bill, BA Hons, MBA, MTS
    Regional Manager Tourism Northern Ireland