History of Letterheads – Worldwide:  The Letterheads movement began in Denver, Colorado, when a group of sign painting apprentices first united, since then sign painters worldwide have convened at Letterheads meets, exchanging traditional techniques and fostering a culture of mentorship and collaboration. These gatherings have been vital in preserving the craft, with countless events held across the globe.

Even today, the movement thrives on newcomers to the trade, fostering an open exchange of knowledge, skills, and time among like-minded craftspeople—often in a lively atmosphere with drinks and refreshments.

These gatherings, known as ‘Letterhead meets’, vary in size and format, ranging from small shop meetups over a few beers to large, multi-day events with hundreds of international attendees.

Known as ‘The Keepers of the Craft’, those attending are dedicated to sharing tips, techniques, ideas, and friendships. Letterheads meets have no fixed agenda, but a cherished tradition is the ‘panel jam’, where participants create small signs and panels purely for the joy of the craft—free from client demands. These pieces, often humorous and imaginative, are often exchanged among attendees or auctioned for charity at the event’s conclusion.

Letterheads in New Zealand: The Letterheads movement has become well-established in New Zealand, with the first meet held at Field Sign Co. in Auckland in November 1998. Since then, it has alternated annually between the North and South Islands.

Attendees travel from across New Zealand and are joined by Australian counterparts. Apprentices, are encouraged to participate and receive mentorship and support from experienced painters, ensuring the craft is passed down to the next generation.

While panel jamming and hands-on projects remain the heart of the gatherings, these meets also feature a number of structured workshop including gilding, caricatures, sign aging, and layout, along with the traditional pin-striping competition.

Traditionally letterhead meets undertake a community project such as community murals or community play equipment.

Many participants arrive with items to letter and decorate, including old fence posts, letterboxes, bar signs, and skateboard decks. In addition, a variety of materials are available on-site for creative expression.