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Life is Fun with Cohas Milestones and Memories!

Cohas Milestone and Memories is a complete line of products for your family. Because our customers were looking for a high quality product, we listened, and began manufacturing our unique and quality milestone boards.  Our in house artist, using real chalk markers, developed 100’s of illustrations, using ideas from our customers. Furthermore, being high quality, easy to use, and loads of fun, having one of our milestone boards at your next family celebration will result in making it a special occasion full of memories.

High Quality recycled wood are used when making Cohas milestone and memory boards.

Made out of recycled wood and are durable.

Additionally, all of our products are 100% made in America from the materials, to the original art designs, to the manufacturing. Our boards are made from sustainable recycled wood materials, durable,  and our inks are certified safe for hospitals and schools.

Many Different Milestone and Memories Themes! Many Coordinating Products to Choose From!

The Cohas Milestone Board line offers baby, birthday, back to school, wedding, and fur baby themed boards. Even more, some of the boards have two variations, one adult, one for a child, and are perfect to commemorate your family’s celebration photo shoots. In addition, we offer our customers the choice of different markers sets.  We also offer many coordinating products that use the same artwork, for instance; banners, fabric repositionable decals, and so much more!  Resulting in high quality products that your family can reuse for months or years.

Artwork on the Cohas Milestone and Memories family

Hand draw chalk art images created by Cohas in-house artists to celebrate family Milestones and Memories

Living in Tax Free New Hampshire.

We live, work, and play in the farms and foothills of New Hampshire, and are located just 45 minutes north of Boston. We are close to the seacoast, the mountains. Therefore with nature abound, inspiring viewsheds, and activities resulting in a spark in our imaginations, we thrive on giving our customers the best milestone boards available.

We have to admit, that the matrix of chalk art themes, along with the products we have developed, has caught us by surprise. Because it all happens day by day, one animal or illustration at a time. Additionally, the requests come in from all over the United States and Canada. In fact, with over 20 themes consisting of more than a hundred animals, illustrations, and accessories, Cohas Milestone and Memories will capture your milestone.

Check Out Our Social Media.  New Ideas and Products are Always Being Announced!

Let us help you make memories. Like our Facebook page and Instagram account as we continue to imagine and create the possibilities.

Watch our memory and milestone theme video.  We are sure that you’ll find a theme best for you.  Additionally, if you see something that is missing for your celebration, reach out and contact us.  We appreciate our customers, and we are here to help!

Most importantly, you pay no sales tax on orders from our Cohas website.

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Brewpub Slate Signs with Microbrew Label Dog Chalk Art

Knowing that the heart of chalk artwork started in pubs throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland, we were looking for inspiration close to home. While on a visit to a local microbrewery for a growler refill, we picked up a “passport” to New Hampshire breweries.  Just that spring we discovered roofing slate here in New England. Brainstorming on how they could be used, brewpub slate signs kept floating to the top.

Brewpub Slate Signs

One of the first stops on our New Hampshire Brewery road trip was to Throwback Brewery. It was an early spring day and unusually warm – especially since this old converted farm is so close to the seacoast.  While all the excitement and energy was outside, inside we were slapped in the face with what we saw.  Old roofing slate, likely from an old post and beam barn, was being used for brewpub slate signs of all the beers on tap.

Neatly formatted on the wall, they hung from hooks and as a tap ran dry, they would be removed and replaced with the next craft beer.  What an outstanding concept!  So we thought, “How could this be made better?”  The idea fermented as we continued our tour of more than 20 breweries and brewpubs during the summer of 2016.

 

Brewpub Chalk Art Slate Sign closeup of a Microbrew Label Dog

In an act of kindness, our daughter and her wife bought us a tour to the only brewpub in Manchester, New Hampshire.  While we had our passport “stamped” at this venue, the visit was not memorable.  It could be that we were fatigued from other visits at that point, or just not paying attention.  But everything happens for a reason, and Stark Brewing Company was going to get a second chance.

Stark Brewing Company

Researching the brewpub brought a surprise about the label designs on the cans.  We knew the original name of the famous venue down by the Merrimack river in Manchester was Milly’s.  What we did not know is that it was named after the owner’s favorite German Shepherd.

Stark Brewing Company new Can Lineup featuring images of dogs

With still no idea where the project was going, the path was going to be full of surprises.  Looking to another local business, “The Lazy Dog Beer Shoppe” in our hometown of Londonderry, New Hampshire, the call went out.  Well actually, in today’s modern world, the tweet went out.  We needed the can with Milly’s picture on it to create a brewpub slate sign.  The goal was to create a chalk art replica of the new labels used by Stark Brewing.

Zipping over to the beer shop, they had some of the oatmeal stout in stock.  Honey, the owner’s dog, gave us no more than a lift of the head, sunning herself in the front window that day.  They had singles, but we opted for the full 6 pack since, well, since we had to do a full review.

Our Budding Chalk Artist

Milly's Brewpub Slate Signs in production at the Cohas studiosWhen selecting interns here at Cohas Chalkboard and Marker Systems, we look for a broad set of skills. Often this includes an interest in the arts.  Melina Kae has done a number of chalk art projects for us including our popular pineapple welcome sign.  We know she loves to draw dogs. Though this was an adult beverage image, she had to be the one assigned to it.

Melina is a senior at our local high school with plans to attend a school for the arts next fall.

Working for the afternoon, Melina brought the Stark Brewing Company label to life on the slate.  “The thing I find amazing about this replica of the Milly’s Oatmeal Stout can label is that it was all done with chalk markers. Other than of course the fact that I love dogs, but everyone here knows that,” said Kathy Wagner in the studio while Melina worked. Melina had fewer words for us when asked about the project, “This has to be the most fun thing I have ever had to do here!”

Back to the Brewpub

Brewmaster Peter Telge believes in giving back to the community. As something we can appreciate, it is one of our primary goals here at Cohas Chalkboard and Marker Systems.  Each year Stark Brewing Company holds “Sip for Strays”, with the proceeds going to saving puppies. This is something we thought about while sipping our flight of Stark brews after our tour.

First Bottle of Stark Brewing Company Vodka Our tour would have ended then but one of the brewmasters was “taking the day off” and in house.  He had to show us the new distillery operation making vodka using distilled grain from the brewpub.  Made right here in New Hampshire, this was smooth but powerful when splashed over ice and sipped.  Truth be told, the fragrance of the aromatic still with a steady “drip, drip” may have made most of the impact on our palate.

Stark Brewpub has been in operation since 1999. If you are in southern New Hampshire looking for a good brew and a bite to eat, seek them out.  They even have a function and catering operation where they can seat 10-100 in a private area of the brewpub.  Looking to try your hand at chalk art on slate?  Be sure to order some markers and slate here on Cohas today!

While those vodka labels did not have the impact of the dogs on the company’s beer cans, we expect soon they will come up with something to capture your imagination.  If not, we are sure a young budding artist like Melina would be happy to help out.

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Guide to Chalk Marker Types used with Chalkboards

Secret world of the chalk marker exposed by our application analyst here at Cohas Chalkboard Systems.

The explosion of Chalkart used in Restaurants, Bars, Shops and even homes has Chalk Marker use growing at an exponential rate.  Often shop owners and artists will use what may be at hand.  Using the correct Chalk Marker can make the difference between a good display and a great one.  Not as simple as classroom chalk made from limestone, chalk markers come in several specific types.

Chalk Marker Pigment Powder shown dispensed from a screw top containerThe one thing all chalk markers do have in common, regardless of who manufactures the marker is the fact that they use pigment based ink.  Fine ground powder suspended in liquid solution makes pigment ink.  When dry this chalk liquid provides the characteristic look of chalk markers, resembling the look of chalk.  Pigment is good for many reasons, the greatest, but unseen one is that pigment is resistant to UV light.  For this reason they do not fade as fast as dye based markers.  Dye based markers include the classic whiteboard marker and permanent Sharpie brand marker.  Both work well for indoor applications they are intended for, they will fade quickly when exposed to the sun.

This pigment also makes the chalk marker ink very opaque resulting in a good covering over any color background including black.  In reality the fluid in the marker is closer to the paint family of products than the technology related to ink.

Chalk Marker Slang

Ever notice how when you give a nickname to someone it often sticks?  Over the years chalk markers have had this problem too!

Paint Marker, Chalk Ink, Chalk Pen, Bistro Marker, Paint Pen, Craft Marker, Poster Marker, Glass Pen, Liquid Chalk and of course Chalk Marker. The term “Chalk Marker” is a misnomer, not filled with chalk, it does make chalk like marks.  Regardless of the name you use you will see them in use everywhere!  A Manchester, New Hampshire company, “Adored” has even developed an app that pushes out local chalkboards to subscribers all across the country.   In a survey commissioned by this company they found Chalk Art motivated consumers to visit a business 46% more than print and 10% more than photos!

Our customers like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s have known this for years!  Visit these stores and you will find chalk art  beckoning you to your next culinary delicacy.  In most of those environments they use waterproof chalk markers, let’s find out why.

Waterproof Chalk Marker

These markers are most often used outdoors, as they will not come off in the rain. Use them on car windows, on the painted part of a car, plastic, glass, aluminum, steel and stone; any surface that is not porous will accept the marker. They work well on chalkboards and look like chalk when dry.

Windex used to remove waterproof semi-permanent Chalk MarkersEven though they make a strong bold mark, waterproof chalk markers are semi-permanent removed with Windex. The marks made are resistant to UV light, so they will not fade.  Both the Zig Posterman Waterproof and Markal Pro-Wash D (detergent) remove with high pH cleaners.  Though our testing has found that the Markal products, as industrial level markers tend to take a bit more effort to remove.

Typical Applications

  • Store Window Signs
  • A-Frame Signs
  • Sidewalk Signs
  • Police Markers (for parking violations or Marking a disabled car)
  • Decorating Car Windows or the Car
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Marking Glass or Ceramics
  • Home Decor
  • Fast Pitch Signs
  • Chalk Board Art
  • White Board for semi-permanent application
  • Skateboard Art Excellent on Grip Tape
  • Helmets, Headphones, Computers and Footwear
  • Canvas and Fine Art

The waterproof marker will not “lift” when you re-coat after drying. The same color or different colors are used next to each other with no bleeding or streaking. Just let the liquid chalk dry for 1-2 minutes before adding the next color.

On paper, canvas, cloth or other porous surfaces, the marker leaves a nice matte finish; an opaque mark that is permanent and light-fast. Artists will find they can create giant size calligraphy with the larger markers.

This type of marker only removes with Windex, many kitchen cleaners, Zig Posterman Cleaner, Cohas Cleaning Solution or most whiteboard cleaners. The Windex must have ammonia to work. The chemical properties needed in the cleaner for removal is a pH of 10 or higher.

They are compatible with dry erase and wet erase markers on the same board. When removing the dry erase marker with an eraser, the waterproof mark will not remove.

Shop Waterproof Chalk Markers and Chalk Paint Pots

Wet-Wipe

Used on glass, plastic, blackboards, stone, whiteboards and any non-porous surface, these markers will always come off with a damp cloth or sponge.

Wet-Wipe Broad Chisel 6mm Tip Marker The 27 available Colors in a Circle showing the tips

Click to Shop Wet-Wipe Markers

Often used for menus in restaurants or special boards, they are easy to change. Just wash away the item you would like to change.  The Zig Posterman Wet-Wipe and Markal Pro-Wash W (water) are removed with a damp cloth or wet sponge.

The marks on your board can not be removed by brushing or rubbing.  You must use water to remove the text or artwork on the board.

The majority of Chalk Markers on the market today will be Wet-Wipe style markers that are removed with water.  If you are in a situation where your chalk marker is being affected by nearby water spray, food or beverage contact, or rain outdoors, select the waterproof semi-permanent marker when ordering.

On porous items wet-wipe markers will be permanent.  Always test your surface and consider the application before use.

Typical Applications

  • Store Signs
  • POP displays
  • Table, Counter or Bar Top displays
  • Arts and Crafts on non-porous items when easy removal is required
  • Arts and Crafts on porous items when permanent marks are needed
  • Child artwork on counters or glass
  • Chalk Board Art
  • White Board for easy to use, “erase when dry” applications
  • Menu Boards
  • Wedding and Function Message Boards
  • Kitchen Menu Boards
  • Family Calendar and Activity Board

Most Wet-Wipe chalk markers will apply wet, then dry in about 1-2 minutes.  When dry they can not be rubbed off, this works well for many inside applications.

Shop Wet-Wipe Chalk Markers

Wet-Wipe UV Chalk Markers

Illumigraph is the same ink type as Wet-Wipe in how it functions. The colors will be very fluorescent, especially under black-light, lights at night and on LED boards. Dark surfaces look best with this product. The appearance can be described as a true neon line when on a lighted board like a back-lit menu board or a LED Flashing Board.

These chalk markers will not damage your acrylic menu board surface and are removed by rubbing with a soft cloth.  If the board has scratches or micro scratching, stubborn marks can be removed with a damp sponge or cloth.  With a very smooth surface Illumigraph markers will remove very well with a dry eraser made for use on a white board.  This is different than the Zig Posterman Wet-Wipe, Markal Pro-Wash W and most other brand Wet-Wipe markers.

Zig Illumigraph 15mm Chalk Markers in all 8 colors

When used on your boards, there’s no need to take them down to change them. Unlike the inexpensive markers, these high quality paint markers will not run when you load the tip. No more dripping and dribbling down the board!  If your LED Flashing board came with markers, you will not believe the performance of the Zig Illumigraph markers when you replace them. Not only are the marks cleaner and brighter, they are also available in wider sizes allowing for big bold messages!

Typical Applications

  • Blacklight Environments
  • LED Flashing Boards
  • Table, Counter or Bar Top displays on Black Backgrounds
  • Chalk Board Art
  • Blackboard Chalk Marker for Easy to Use, “Erase When Dry” Applications
  • Menu Boards
  • Wedding and Function Message Boards Super Bright on Dark Surfaces
  • Nightclub, Hotel, Restaurant and Lounge Displays

Once dry, the marks are easy to change; perfect for price changes or changing the special of the day on your message board.

Zig Illumigraph Markers should not be used outdoors, they will come off in the rain. Use care around energized electronic devices. Unplug your LED Flashing or Light Board before use and allow ink to dry. Follow the manufactures recommendation on your writing surfaces.

Shop Bright Ultra Violet Receptive Wet-Wipe Chalk Markers

Permanent Pigment Chalk Markers

While not often used for Chalk Markers the Markal Pro-Line made here in America has some unique features.  For chalkboard applications we find them useful for stone, glass, tile, metal and other outdoor installations.  Available in smaller extra fine and fine tips the Pro-Max is similar to the Zig Posterman 15mm Big and Bold marker.  The Pro-Max has a 14mm tip size.14mm Pro-Max Markal Permanent Chalk (Paint) Marker Shown just after priming and use. Chalk Marker is on a Cohas Chalkboard Systems ChalkFlex Eco Board

It is very important before you start your project to know your intended use and needs. Permanent Liquid Chalk, also called Liquid Paint Markers, can not be removed with water, Windex or detergent.  You may be able to remove them with a solvent.  It is important to note removal is not always possible even with a solvent.

Contact us to order Permanent Chalk Markers

Solid Markers

While not used as Chalk Markers, often we see our customers searching for information on this type of marker.  Solid Paint Markers are more like very large crayons than pens.  The modern ones like the Markal Quick Stick and Quick Stick Mini come in plastic containers that dispense the solid paint.  Some solid markers use a paper cover that is pealed off like a china marker exposing the solid ink.

Solid yellow Markal Paint Marker with an open cap on a Cohas Chalkboard Systems Eco Board

Solid markers provide a long lasting mark that is UV resistant, they can be used on wet surfaces.  Something not possible for most chalk markers.  Typical use is in metal fabrication, automotive marking, construction, welding and shipping applications.

Contact us to order Solid Chalk Markers

Marker Safety

Kuretake (Zig Brand) Manufactured Products

The water based pigment solution, has no odor, no VOC’s and are non-toxic.  The markers conform to EU product safety regulations for children.

Zig Posterman and Zig Illumigraph markers carry the AP Seal, all markers conform to ASTM D4236. This means that the products bearing the AP Approved Product Seal of ACMI are certified in a program of toxicological evaluation by a medic expert to contain no materials in sufficient quantities to be toxic or injurious to humans or to cause acute or chronic health problems.  This program is reviewed by ACMI’s Toxicological Advisory Board. These products are certified by ACMI to be labeled in accordance with the chronic hazard labeling standard, ASTM D 4236 and federal law, P.L. 100-695.  In addition, there is no physical hazard as defined within the 29 CFR part 1910.1200 (c).

All markers have the CE mark and comply with the CE legislation. This means that the products bearing the CE mark meet the Toy Safety regulation, EN-71, in the European Community for Standardization.

The marker caps also comply with the UK Safety Standard BS7272.  This relates to the design practices of caps to reduce the risk of asphyxiation to children.

As one of the largest stocking distributors in the world, we import the Kuretake Zig markers from Japan for individual sale and integration into our made in the USA Cohas Chalkboard Systems products.

LA-CO Industries (Markal Brand) Manufactured Products

All Markal products use Xylene-free paint reduces user health risks and eliminates California Proposition 65, EPA HAPS and SARA 313 concerns in the U.S.A..  Markal products not recommended in home environments, primarily designed and tested for industrial use.

Markal markers, made right here in America.  Sold individually here on Cohas Chalkboard Systems and integrated into our made in the USA products.

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Ever Wonder about Trader Joe’s Chalkboard Artwork?

A "Brighten bouquets for $4.99 hand painted Trader Joe's ChalkboardThe natural style food markets so popular today have plenty of full color old school displays throughout the aisles.  Trader Joe’s Chalkboard Art creates a 3D paradise pulling you into the shopping experience. You would think these detailed and colorful displays were created in some Madison Ave studio, you would be wrong!

Where and Who Makes Trader Joe’s Chalkboard Art

Stores like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, similar to many local markets use entry level help.  They hire high school and college students to stock shelves and run the cash registers.  They then seek out, or the young budding artists even asks, “Can I try making a display for the flower shop?”  Who says the job description has to be fixed to stocking shelves all day!

Popular at these type of markets are the metallic markers in both waterproof and wet wipe.  Providing great highlights, they lay down on the boards very well and are easy to remove when it is time to change.  The “Brighten bouquets” image shows a great example of how these pop.  This happens when the light hits the foil graphic created with the metallic marker.

Need some inspiration? Check out this remarkable artwork from “sueisem” who is an artist but has a day job at Trader Joe’s.

“The Trader Joe’s Chalkboard artwork is created between running the cash register and helping customers at the store.” she said when we spoke.  We asked if paint markers or chalk were used and the response was both! We love using a little mixed medium here at our Cohas Chalkboard Systems Studios nothing wrong with that.  Though all these designs could be created exclusively with our paint marker pens, plus you can always use a brush to blend colors.  You can see this in action here in our Cohas DIY section, read “Mixed Tools Chalkboard Art Using Brushes” to learn more.

Her Trader Joe’s Chalkboard Artwork

Check out the use of highlights, gradations and shadows to create a 3D effect in the video samples.  Lettering combined with bright colors with plenty of energy abound in her images.  So popular, people contact “sueisem” to see if she will create artwork for their store, market or event.

In the video you will see some outdoor images, no worries as the chalk markers offered here on Cohas Chalkboard Systems come it two styles.  Wet-wipe that can be removed with water and waterproof that can only be removed with a high pH cleaner like Windex with ammonia.  As a mater of fact most our Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s Chalkboard artists use the Waterproof versions. Used in the produce sections of the market standing up to the water spray used on the vegetables.  Use these links to buy our Waterproof Markers or Wet-Wipe Markers used at these markets.

Trader Joe's Chalkboard Artist, suisem

Try your hand at some “Old Style” artwork one of a kind promotion for your product or event. This artist, also places flower orders for Trader Joe’s not surprising what a great eye, and outstanding artwork!

Contact “sueisem” through the YouTube link or click on her image above to connect through Google Plus. 

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Removing Chalk Window Art, Tips for Chalkmarker Artwork

A new window with John Neal a professional chalkboard artist in the United Kingdom starts with him removing chalk window art from a Christmas storefront window.

“It is important to get the window quite clean, otherwise the ink will not adhere.” said John right before he starts. Here in the Zig Posterman labs we like to do our last clean on any surface with denatured alcohol. Matching the window to the shop sign he starts with a Zig Posterman waterproof Violet, or purple marker. The larger markers come in 21 different colors.

Details on Removing Chalk Window Art

We often take support calls, chats and emails on “How long will it last? Do I have to do my work inside the window?” John responds, “Not my preference at all. The ink is good enough to stay on the outside. It is too tedious for yobos (UK slang for a cruel and brutal fellow, in the US we call them pranksters) to scrape off with a finger. In fact one of my clients has a cafe in the town center & the message on his window was left on for 14 months. it just faded a bit but the main writing was still there. having said that, if you spray with a kitchen cleaner or in particular washing soda (sodium carbonate) it virtually runs off in front of your eyes.”

Once the window is cleaned by John removing chalk window art he is ready to get to work.

After the outline he adds layers of blue dark at the bottom and light in the center with white on the top of the letters, providing a nice cool reflective look to the text. After filling in the letters you just “neaten them up” by going over the edges again with violet. Zig Posterman waterproof markers will not lift when you apply them over dry marks. This provides a lot of flexibility in your artwork.

A John Neal Sign making tip and trick!

Use a Zig Posterman wet-wipe to create your guidelines. When done they can be removed with water and not affect your waterproof artwork! In the video he uses dots to provide his guide. You may want to do thin lines if just starting out with window art.

The bottom text “Finish” get’s a similar design with white highlights solid in the center and dashed radiating out the the top and the bottom. To the eye this provides a letter that pop’s out from the glass. Finishing off the letters he uses a 6mm light blue. If you pause the tape at 7:03 you will notice the tip does not have a chisel tip but a flat tip with slightly rounded edges. What John likes to do is pull out his Zig Posterman 6mm tip and turn it around. This provides a more stable 5-6 mm line as compared to trying to hold the edge of the chisel flat.

Removing Chalk Window Art, when done sign painter using a homemade compass to make a sign in a window. Circle is half done, with nice blue text above

Another trick, a homemade compass with a marker taped to one tip and a nail on the other side. This along with a suction cup makes neat little circles on the window! Something you may find doing your window artwork, people will stand and watch both inside and out of the shop!

Watch in this video as John Neal mixes font types for interest in the window, but not to much that it is confusing. Be sure to check out his website for a full length downloadable video of how to create signs and artwork with Zig Posterman markers.

Markers used in this video were both 6mm and 15 mm

All in stock orders ship in 12 hours or less!

2 mm Zig Posterman Waterproof

6mm Zig Posterman Waterproof

15mm Zig Posterman Waterproof

Try our new “Paint Pots” use with any standard brush or foam brush, available in 12 unusual colors.

What is the secret of this marker, why does it remove with Kitchen Cleaner or Windex?  According to our in-house technical expert hasaukee this is simply due to the chemical structure of the pigment based solution.  This chalk ink that makes up the fluid in the marker is safe and water soluble.  If and only if the cleaner has a pH of 10 or higher does it take action on the graphic.

This unique option perfect in preserving or removing chalk window art is not available in many markers on the market today.  Mr. Cohasaukee’s Guide to Chalk Marker Types Used With Chalkboards is helpful in making your selection.  The information is applicable to window art demonstrated in this video too.

 

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Create Professional Chalkboard Signs for Your Business

Help your products sell with these versatile, waterproof and easy to use markers! Zig Posterman markers help you create unique and eye-catching professional chalkboard signs for your business that are sure to draw customers in. Signs can be as simple or complex as you’d like, just follow these easy instructions!

Simple Steps to Professional Chalkboard Signs

  1. Plan your sign. Take some time before drawing with the markers to plan what your sign will say. Also imagine what images you might like to include. Simply sketching in pencil on the sign can help you get a feel of how your finished sign will look, while ensuring letter sizes, spacing and design are symmetrical.
  2. Plan which markers you will use. This will allow you to decide if letters, numbers or designs should be thick and bold, or simple and slim.
  3. Prepare the markers. Shake the markers for about one minute each, then press the tip of the marker against a hard surface, to bring the color to the tip of the marker.
  4. Start simple. Begin writing the letters and numbers on the sign, creating the basic outlines. You can add more details once the general design of the sign is completed.
  5. Create your images. If you’re going to add pictures to the sign, start with the basics. Draw the outlines and shapes of the images, then add more details as the design takes shape.
  6. Remember to add small details. If you’re writing on a blackboard, create a simple outline of the letters in white. If you’re creating a sign related to the winter season, add dots of white for snow or sprigs of holly berry.
  7. Don’t worry if you make an error along with way. Simply wipe off the marker before it dries, or use a dab of cleaner on a paper towel to erase errors.

Take a look as professional chalkboard artist shows you more tips and techniques when he creates a sign advertising cocktails using Zig Posterman markers!

Easy to Change Frames

Once you have mastered the art of creating professional chalkboard signs for your business, why not look at the industrial quality Cohas Chalkboard Systems Tabletop or A-frame signs?  With easy to change inserts you can remove and replace them at a moments notice.

Tabletop Displays feature an easy to change chalkboard system, perfect for breweries, bars, wedding venues, restaurants, and even at home. The unique system features a chalkboard that removes easily from the frame. This allows the artwork to be changed quickly, then dropped back into the frame!

Large Displays are perfect for use outside businesses and feature the same easy to change chalkboard system.  This makes for a quality solid wood and steel A-frame sign made right here in America.
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Simple Text, Dramatic Results with Zig Posterman Signwriting

Learn how to make “Chalkboards” out of Masonry paint, according to John Niel Sign Writer in the United Kingdom this works much better than chalkboard paint. In a hurry just use a hair dryer to dry the board before you start.  Several of our application stories here on the Cohas Chalkboard Systems website review Zig Posterman Signwriting techniques and tips.

Sign painting is not only fun it can even be something you can turn into a home business.  Something many call a cottage corporation!  With just a few tools some training, imagination and Zig Posterman chalk markers you to could have a profitable enterprise.

Getting Started with Zig Posterman Signwriting

Using a soft pencil the first step is to put a border around the board that you can use as a guideline. In this video John dispenses the Zig Posterman marker “ink” or “paint” on to a pallet and uses a classic wide brush.

Lettering is done with the brush held at a steady 45 degrees to the board. This provides a calligraphy look to the sign. This is for the first word on the sign “Bahai” the second line of text is done in a block bold, sans-serif style with the brush at 90 degrees to the edges of the board. This would be a great time to switch over to the Zig Posterman 15mm if you are not as artistic as John Niel.

That simple text gets a surprising affect by dragging the letters down with his thumb. We have had this conversation with many that call or chat with us here at Cohas Chalkboard Systems. “Why do I need a black marker? I am going to work on a black board!” Watch in the video where with a straight edge our chalkboard artist creates a reflective look to the sign. Like magic the simple font is now sitting on the water!

Details Make The Difference

Layering a second coat with the fluid from the Zig Posterman marker puts a highlight in white on the letters. This segment of the video has been compressed so you only get a few seconds of it. Get a better view, pause at about 9:30 to take a look at how it’s done.

A quick lay down of red gives the main text some depth and a nice drop shadow. Using his pallet he mixes a little red with pink and creates highlights on top of the letters. One of the big advantages of the Zig Posterman Waterproof is that it will not lift once it has dried. Color layers are easy for the pro or first time user with waterproof Zig Posterman.

John shows us some canal boat and fairground lettering that gives inspiration to the sign in this video. Be sure to watch to the end where you learn how to make starbursts on your promotional signage.

Be sure to order his full length video HERE, for ideas tips and guidance on sign making with Zig Posterman markers!

If you are not quite up to the challenge of painting a board with roofing paint, consider Cohas Chalkflex.  This amazing plastic chalkboard with a textured easy to apply surface can make your Zig Posterman Signwriting easy to create and enjoy.  Don’t want to create your own chalkboard surface?  The Cohas Eco Chalkboards are ready made right here in America and available in standard sizes to fit most frames.

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