UKSB member launches their own sign making book

[.News]

Written with the complete novice in mind, here is the ultimate beginners guide to setting up and running a small sign making business. Starting off with the very basics, this book will guide you through the latest computer aided design and manufacturing process used in modern day sign production.
For someone interested in setting up and running their own Sign business venture, this book is for you!

Amongst the many issues covered are:-

* The equipment, tools and software used in signmaking
* The types of materials (substrates and vinyls) used to create signs
* Practical advice and instructions on how to weed, tape, and apply vinyl
* Working with multiple colours in your designs
* Advice on sign design and layout
* How to go about designing and applying vehicle liveries
* How to make and install flat cut lettering
* Advice on marketing your business
* How to price your work
* A model for your business plan
* How to build a signframe
* Practical instructions and plans showing how to build a work bench

Book Details:-
Printed: 176 pages
6" x 9"
Perfect binding
Cream interior paper (60# weight)
Black and white interior ink
White exterior paper (100# weight)
Full-color exterior ink

This book is available to purchase Online:>>

Amazon Kindle:
Kindle :- £9.37
Paperback :- £20.73
Click Here and Buy this book from Amazon now::

Paperback:- £23.03 + P&P
Click Here and Buy this book from Lulu now::

Phill and his wife Alison have 13 years of experience in setting up and running a sign business.

So why did he write this book? – The reason is simply in order to help new starts to get into the industry but more so to encourage them to do it properly.
His belief is there are too many people just dabbling in this type of business, doing it part time or as a hobby. Many would like to take it more seriously but are perhaps unsure as to how to progress beyond “hobby” or part time work. Phill believes that there will always be new people attracted to and moving into the industry, thus creating greater competition for those already in the industry. There is nothing that existing signmakers can do to prevent this. So rather than resist it, he believes the best course of action is to encourage newcomers in the belief that we actually all share the same long term needs (i.e. to run a viable and sustainable business). He also believes it is better to share knowledge for the overall betterment of the industry.

Phill says:-
"I am very proud of the work we do and the services and products we provide. For that reason, I would prefer to see it full of dedicated people that are busy producing the best work they are capable of. A book like this would have prevented me from making many of the mistakes I did when first starting out".

Testimonials by uksignboard.com members that have read this book:

Roger Clements
"I must say. What a little gem it is. I have read, re-read and re-read it"

Tim Cockings
"An honest and representative profile of what it is actually like to start a new business"

John Callaghan
"Its a great read and your advice is second to none"

Kenny Ramsey
"A few different pointers and techniques I haven’t thought of before. Seems so simple yet they make all the difference"

Andrew Bennet
"I found it very inspiring and thought provoking"

Adele Brennan
"It’s a definite must have book for anyone starting out from scratch"

.

[Harry Cleary]

Many congratulations Phill

[Robert Lambie]

and from me too, a great achievement Phill !

[Nicola McIntosh]

well done phil and alison 😉

[Lynn Normington]

same from me well done Phill & Alison, that must have been some task.

Lynn

[Glenn Sharp]

All the best Phil & Alison

I hope you remember us all when the film comes out 😉

[Richard Urquhart]

Well first things first, at first I looked and thought it was a wind up ! but I guess not the case. Phil and Alison a very well done!!!!! This is something that is needed and with all your experience will make for a great book.
All the best with sales and I’m sure it will be very successful. If there is a chance of a signed copy I would be very interested as long as it the same price.

😀

[Andrew Blackett]

Well done Phill, all the best with that matey!

Andy

[Martin Cole]

quote signextra:

The reason is simply in order to help new starts to get into the industry but more so to encourage them to do it properly.

That can’t be a bad thing,

Congratulations to both you and Alison

[Paul S Martin]

Well Done Phill & Alison

My Order has been placed & sure it will help me to understand the trade that much much more, and will also be a good investment.

All The Best
Paul 😀

[John Wilson]

Did you copy and paste the lot from here? ? ? :lol1: Only joking 😎

Congrats to you both 😀

ps how do we get a signed copy then?

[Phill Fenton]

Thanks to every one for the good wishes – and thank you Paul for actually buying a copy 😀

Any copies bought come directly from the printers and do not pass through my hands (so no opportunity to sign it 😎 😕 )

[Shane Drew]

Well done Phill.

[Jason Xuereb]

Well done Phil. Great achievement and thanks for contributing tutorials to the site also.

[Duncan Wilkie]

Very impressive project Phill. I’d be curious to hear about how you went about creating the content and the time you spent on it.
I’ve written a few magazine articles in the past year and I really enjoy the process. SignCraft magazine has asked me for a few more, I just need to find the time to do it. Sites like this one are a great opportunity to explore and hone your writing talents and bounce ideas off some really top notch people. Rob deserves a lot of credit in giving me the confidence to do just that. He encouraged me to upload my tutorial on creating a Traditional looking sign…
http://www.uksignboards.com/viewtopic.php?t=24176
Since then I’ve done an article in our local Chamber of Commerce News, three articles in SignCraft magazine and a TV appearance. I encourage you all to giver-a-go. If you’ve never started a Topic here, that would be a good place to start. Everyone has something useful to share, and Rob has given us a perfect outlet for our creativity.
Good luck with your book Phill.

[Shane Drew]

I agree Duncan.

I’ve written a few articles in my time, but my newsletter gives me a great outlet to express myself.

I’ve been approached to write a book, but baulked at the process because I only do a good job if its in my own time (no deadlines)

Not sure if my readers agree, but I get calls about when my next one is due if its late 😳

[Adrian Yeo]

Well done Phil, great achievement :appl:

Ordered myself a copy! Looks a good read. 😀 😀

[Shane Drew]

quote Shane Drew:

I agree Duncan.

I’ve written a few articles in my time, but my newsletter gives me a great outlet to express myself.

I’ve been approached to write a book, but baulked at the process because I only do a good job if its in my own time (no deadlines)

I write in a very casual style usually, but found the end product to be very therapeutic.

Not sure if my readers agree, but I get calls about when my next one is due if its late 😳

[Shane Drew]

😳 😳 double post…. corrected a spelling error….. didn’t realise you couldn’t edit 😳 sorry 😳

[George Elsmore]

Fantastic Phill :2thumbs:

Where did you find the time 😕

[Derek Heron]

:yeeha:
hats off too you both mate well done will be ordering a copy asap

Derek

[Gary Birch]

I’m with Richard in thinking it was a wind up but well done for doing it!!

HTF did you find the time though.

Hats off to the pair of you and good luck with the sales.

Cheers

Gary

[George Elsmore]

I hope you can keep up with this best selling book Phill

🙄

😀

---

Attachments:

[Cheryl Smith]

Nice one Phil…every reason to be chuffed….a published author!!

Cheryl

[Jill Marie Welsh]

Way to go, Phill!
Love…Jill

[David Rowland]

On Lulu, click on other books by author… lol

[Shane Drew]

quote George Elsmore:

I hope you can keep up with this best selling book Phill

🙄

😀

Ivor Rabbitcutter :lol1: :lol1: 😮

[Phill Fenton]

"Helped by Isacc Hunt" is genius :lol1: :lol1:

[Neil Davey]

Well done and congrats Phill & Alison.

By the way……..

when is the film coming out?? 😀

[Warren Beard]

Well done guys and all the best with the sales 😉 :thumbup2:

Warren

[Marcella Ross]

many congratulations Phill! 😀 Didn’t you write a book before?

[Faisal Ali]

thanks for taking the time to write this book Phil, have placed an order and looking forward to reading it

Well done!

[Neil Speirs]

way to go Phil :appl:

[Angelique Muller]

Congratulations! I will order a copy today!!!

[Mike Grant]

I just bought a rip off copy from fleabay for £2.50 :shutup:

:lol1:

Well done laddie I tip my hat to you. :clap2:

[Otto Peltonen]

Well done, congratulations.

I just couldn’t help wondering if there is a writers’ forum somewhere? I can imagine the debate; "How do we know this guy is really a writer, not just a cowboy who’s coming to take the bread out of our mouth…" eh, nevermind. 😀

[Peter Normington]

Well done and congratulations,

Will you now be considered a supplier?
as you have sold quite a few of your books via the site?

Peter

[Richard Urquhart]

Hi Phil
I have just ordered my copy and look forward to the read.
Rich

[Phill Fenton]

Otto, Mike :lol1: :lol1:

My thanks to everyone for all the good wishes – I really do appreciate the support shown and to everyone that has bought a copy – thank you – I hope the book lives up to your expectations.

Marcella – thanks for remembering – I wrote about a kit car called the Nova a few years ago. It has been moderately successful and during the summer months interest in the Marque is raised by examples seen at Kit Car Show events – this in turn generates a few sales over the internet. But it’s really more of a hobby (writing) than an occupation. My real job is signmaking :lol1: :lol1:

[David Rowland]

this be ur and ali’s 4th book according to lulu.. thats what i was getting at

[James Martin]

I’m well impressed Phill

‘The Dream’ is a favorite of mine which I had forgotten.

[Nigel Hindley]

Nice one Phil – well done – and the very best of luck with the sales!

[John Harding]

defo a wind up :shake:

im buying georges book 😀 looks right up my street

[John Callaghan]

Well done Phil and Alison – looking forward to the Times Literary Supplement review! :lol1: You have been most generous in passing on your experience, knowledge, wit(??) and wisdom to us all here. You have played no small part in helping me move from the spare room to the workshop. Thanks Phil, the least I can do is to order a copy. Good luck.

[Hugh Potter]

quote Richard Urquhart:

Well first things first, at first I looked and thought it was a wind up ! but I guess not the case.

😀

that was my first thought too!

well done Phill and Alison, hope it’s very successful for you.

Hugh

[Phill Fenton]

I neglected to mention my thanks to John Childs, Warren, and Rob who all provided me with valuable advice and feedback based on the initial draft. Their feedback and comments were invaluable allowing me to make changes to produce the current version.

Thanks guys :2thumbs:

[John Childs]

quote Phill:

Their feedback and comments were invaluable allowing me to make changes to produce the current version.

Bugger, does that mean my copy is out of date? I’d better buy another. 😀

Seriously, no problem Phill. It was a privilege.

[John Childs]

quote John Childs:

quote Phill:

Their feedback and comments were invaluable allowing me to make changes to produce the current version.

Bugger, does that mean my copy is out of date? I’d better buy another. 😀

Seriously, no problem Phill. It was a privilege. I was flattered that you should value my opinion.

[Gareth Hankinson]

Congratulations mate i will be ordering my copy soon. 😎

[JohnMoyles]

congrats phill, i just placed my order with lulu. will give you some feedback when i have it. a great achievement, keep up the good work!

[Arslan mostefa kara]

congratulation where were you when I needed this book 2 years ago I looked every were for a training But after this time I think I will still need this book as I never know to-much

good luck

Aslan

[Craig Brown]

Hi Phil – as I now feel partially responsible for you going down the road of setting up on your own (especially after what you told me in the car park after the Uksignboarders meal) can I buy a copy and post it up for you and Alison to sign (and no I’m not taking the juice) 🙂

[Adele Brennan]

Congrats on the book…just ordered myself a copy. Sounds just like the kind of book I could have really needed 18months ago and I’m sure I will learn a lot more still from it.

Hope the sales go well for you ..I’m sure they are already.

[Phill Fenton]

Craig – I have sent you a pm.

Adele, Arlsan, John, Gareth, – thank you for your support 😀

[Craig Brown]

quote Phill:

Craig – I have sent you a pm.

Thanks very much Phill you are a star 🙂

I’ve emailed back as pm is not available (note to self, talk to Rob about full membership) 😉

[Graeme Harrold]

Top tastic Phil, will be ordering a copy later this week

When is the audio book coming out, as Ive heard Mr Connery is interested in narrating!!!!

[Andrew Bennett]

I’m just waiting for my copy to get posted through the door.
Having read Georges Dummies Book inside, outside back front and upside down I believe I am ready for the next level 😀
I have always wanted to see what a P.O.D. Book was like so there’s two goals with one purchase.

[Phill Fenton]

I’ve just received an email from Lulu who produce the books. For a limited period they are offering 10% off the purchase price. All you have to do to get the discount is enter this code at the checkout:-

JUNECONTEST10

If you do not enter this code – the normal price will still apply.

(Sorry anyone who has already purchased a copy – this offer has only just become available, is for a limited time only, and is completely beyond my control.)

[Gary Birch]

Phill
Just been on to buy a copy, says it is an invalid code 🙄 but have bought a copy anyway at the proper price.

I look forward to a good read 😉

Cheers

Gary

[Phill Fenton]

Thanks Gary

I tested the code myself before posting it here (without completing the transaction – but enough to check that the discount really would apply) and have tested it again now in response to your post. It is working for me. Did you copy and paste the code exactly as above?

i.e.

JUNECONTEST10

[Phill Fenton]

Just discovered it’s case sensitive – so you must enter it all upper case with the last digits being One and Zero. Easiest way to ensure you get it is to copy and paste my previous link 😀

[Gary Birch]

Phill
Yeah I copied and pasted it. I tried it twice but same happened both times. Strange how it worked for you.

Never mind tho, I don’t mind donating to your retirement fund :lol1:

Was going to buy one at the start of week but didn’t have my credit card with me.

Cheers

Gary

[Phill Fenton]

I have no explanation – I don’t know why it is only working for me 😕

[John Gregson]

Well done Phill – Hope its a success for you 😀
John

[Hamish Paterson]

Great achievement. There was a few books out in the 1980’s – The Hawes Sign Guide and a few from the neon companies, but nobody has ever shown how to do this from scratch – that’s very impressive.

Have a look at the following link:http://londonshopfronts.tumblr.com/ I hope your book helps new sign makers understand that when we are designing signs/shopfronts that we show some empathy towards the building and its surroundings.

Well done – like other comments don’t know how you found the time!

Hamish

[Paul S Martin]

Hi Phil

Are these books printed to order, still no book this end after 5 days and even paid £7.30 for the express service, bit poor on Lulu’s part 😥 dont you think M8.

I know it’s not under your control M8.

Paul 🙂

[Phill Fenton]

Hi Paul

Yes they are printed to order. I ordered a copy on Saturday which was sent out yesterday. They usually say allow 3 to 5 working days. If you ordered yours on Monday it should be getting sent to you today. Lulu will send you an email notifying you when it has been shipped.

[Paul S Martin]

Thanks Phil

:funky: :dance2: I Cant Wait To Read It :dance2: :funky:

Paul 😀

[Richard Urquhart]

Still waiting for mine, thought I would have something good to read this weekend !!!!!

[Brian Hays]

quote Richard Urquhart:

Still waiting for mine, thought I would have something good to read this weekend !!!!!

You mean you aren’t going on holiday this week? 😮 most unusual. :lol1:

[Peter Normington]

Got mine!

Peter

[Paul S Martin]

quote Peter Normington:

Got mine!

Peter

Lend it to me M8 😉

[Richard Urquhart]

6 weeks to go mate
😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀

[Peter Normington]

quote Paul S Martin:

quote Peter Normington:

Got mine!

Peter

Lend it to me M8 😉

Nope I’m not letting it go till I have my new sign business up and running

Peter 😉

[Joseph Helm]

quote Gary Birch:

Phill
Yeah I copied and pasted it. I tried it twice but same happened both times. Strange how it worked for you.

Never mind tho, I don’t mind donating to your retirement fund :lol1:

Was going to buy one at the start of week but didn’t have my credit card with me.

Cheers

Gary

You need to make sure theres no space at the end when you paste the code in.

First time I did it, I didn’t take it… then I deleted the space on the end.

😛

Just put my order in!

Congrats Phil!

[Phill Fenton]

Thanks Joseph – and thanks for solving the mystery about the discount coupon :thumbup2:

[Martin Kennedy]

Hi Phill

Just bought my copy with the discount code – worked first time.

Looking forward to learning something new.

Congrats on your efforts!!

Martin

[Neil Speirs]

Just ordered my copy & looking forward to speeding up my learning process 🙂

Hope you’ve included your dad’s work bench in the book.

[Phill Fenton]

Thanks Neil and Martin. Yes there is a slightly revised set of plans for the workbench included in the book. 😀

[Graeme Harrold]

quote Phill:

Thanks Neil and Martin. Yes there is a slightly revised set of plans for the workbench included in the book. 😀

couple of questions:

There is a discount code box on the checkout……….what is it :lol1:
Whats the commission rate for punting your book? :lol1:

[Phill Fenton]

1/ JUNECONTEST10
2/ You get my undying affection (puppy-eyes)

[David Rowland]

so who’s gonna have their’s on ebay soon? 😮 😀

[Graeme Harrold]

quote Dave Rowland:

so who’s gonna have their’s on ebay soon? 😮 😀

There are 2 copies there already……. 😳

[Lorraine Clinch]

quote Graeme Harrold:

quote Dave Rowland:

so who’s gonna have their’s on ebay soon? 😮 😀

There are 2 copies there already……. 😳

NO!? Really?

Maybe Phil’s got them on-exposure etc..

[Graeme Harrold]

Nah just kiddin………how many people looked…………..

Sorry 😮

[Lorraine Clinch]

Graeme, you…person, you!

[Paul S Martin]

No discount coupon 😥

No Book 😥

6 Weeks 😮

Paul 😀

[David Rowland]

im waiting for the English version to come out 😉

[Paul S Martin]

No English 😥

Paul 😀

[Andrew Bennett]

Ordered mine Monday and paid express, received the order advice but as of yet (Saturday) no shipping advice.

I can only think that they have had more orders than they anticipated and have been caught on the hop.

As it’s the weekend I hope to get my shipping confirmation come Monday.

[Neil Speirs]

Sounds like it would be easier to get a copy of Fly Fishing by J.R. Hartley 😉

[Brian Little]

well done Phill all the best mate 😀

Regards Brian

ps sent you that letter you asked for

[Martin Pearson]

Congratulations Phill.

[Karl Williams]

Nice one Phill. 😉

[James Martin]

where have you been Karl

[Karl Williams]

Just been busy mate. why…..have you missed me? 😀

[Robert Lambie]

I received my copy of your book this morning Phill, thank you very much!

[John Childs]

Mine arrived on Saturday morning. 😀

[James Martin]

Certainly did Karl.

How ya been?

I got my book today, fed ex as well.

[Paul S Martin]

No Book Still 😥

[Richard Urquhart]

Must be a Croydon thing
Paul the vans probably been nicked mate knowing Croydon and someone has 2 books and now were have even more competition.

[Paul S Martin]

quote Richard Urquhart:

Must be a Croydon thing
Paul the vans probably been nicked mate knowing Croydon and someone has 2 books and now were have even more competition.

😮 "DOH" 😮

😥

[Andrew Bennett]

I got my shipping confirmation last night 😀

[Mike Rawlings]

Just placed an order. Looking forward to learning something I dont know I dont know 🙂

Grats on the book – must have been a lot of work for sure!

[Andrew Bennett]

cor blimey.
12 o clock on the dot today and the book arrived. Didn’t expect it for a couple of days so that was a pleasant surprise.

Book itself is very nice and I look forward to a jolly good read.
Congrats Phil.

[Richard Urquhart]

Ah I have THE book !!!!

[Richard Urquhart]

meant to say in the above but cant edit, away on holiday in 6 weeks and want to save it for a holiday book to read, not sure I can wait, looks good….

[Adrian Yeo]

got mine this morning, looking good! 😀

[Paul S Martin]

quote Richard Urquhart:

Ah I have THE book !!!!

Richard You Must Have Mine 👿 😥 Still No Book 😥

That is some Express Service From Lu Loo 😕

And I was thinking E-Bay sellers ship slow.

Paul 🙂

[Derek Heron]

Hi Paul
ordered mine last night and the Mrs has just rang
they tried to deliver this afternoon and they have just re delivered
as he was on his way home 😉

Dex

[Paul S Martin]

quote Derek Heron:

Hi Paul
ordered mine last night and the Mrs has just rang
they tried to deliver this afternoon and they have just re delivered
as he was on his way home 😉

Dex

😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥

😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥 😥

[Kenny Ramsey]

Just about to order this Phil. I learned from a guy, who learned from a guy etc etc and I think that shows in my basic techniques sometimes. 😳

Congratulations by the way 😀

[Derek Heron]

😳
oops sorry paul it was the tesco shopping i ordered and was delivered
i ordered the book last week and am also still waiting so chin up

Derek

[Craig Brown]

Hi Phill…book arrived this morning… 😀

[Robert Lambie]

This thread was loaded 10 days ago…
Posted: 31 May 2009 15:12

it is just approaching 5000 views in that time, thats something like nearly "500 vies per day!"

has to be one of the top 5 most viewed signextra posts yet…
i know there are others with many more, but they have been loaded for months now… 😀

.

[John Harding]

thats a lot of people waiting for Phil to post somthing stupidly funny 😀 😀

[Paul S Martin]

quote Robert Lambie:

This thread was loaded 10 days ago…
Posted: 31 May 2009 15:12

it is just approaching 5000 views in that time, thats something like nearly “500 vies per day!”

has to be one of the top 5 most viewed signextra posts yet…
i know there are others with many more, but they have been loaded for months now… 😀

.

4990 Was me looking to see who got the book 1st 😀 😀 😀

[Paul Hughes]

hi Phill

well done, i for one know how much effort must have gone into putting it together 😉

looking forward to reading it.

Paul

[Phill Fenton]

Your pricing guide does get a mention Paul. 😀

[Paul S Martin]

:funky: :pink: :dance1: IT’S HERE :dance1: :pink: :funky:

Thanks Phill for all your help.

Paul 😀

[R.Lamerton]

Hi looking forward to getting your book, ordered it on the 1/6/09 haven’t received it yet. 🙄

[Phill Fenton]

Check the books status with Lulu (you should have received an email when you ordered with a link allowing you to check it’s progress). It should say either fulfilling or shipped. If it’s been shipped you will have been sent an email. If it’s still fullfilling then it should be sent out any time now. Paul ordered his on the 30th and received it today – so hopefully you should get yours tomorrow.

Thank you for ordering it. 😀

[R.Lamerton]

Thankyou, just recieved email confirming despatch. Looking forward to reading it. Well done. 😛

[Martin Pearson]

I suppose I had better start saving for a copy of Phills book so I will know what everyone is talking about when they start quoting from it !!

[Paul Hughes]

:thanks2: for mentioning the guide, feel like i have arrived now it is mentioned in a reference book (!) 😀

looking forward to reading it

Paul

[Gary Birch]

Mine has just arrived so it has taken just a week.

Now all I need to do is find the time to read it.

Cheers

Gary

[Adele Brennan]

My copy arrived the other day and I have to say it’s clear, easy to read and very well put together.

Some interesting points mentioned too, which have been issues I have been pondering over lately – like working from home and the disadvantages.

It’s a definite must have book for anyone starting out from scratch.

Well done Phil

[Phill Fenton]

Hi Adele

I just wanted to say thank you for buying the book and for the positive comments you made about it.

Kind regards

Phill

[R.Lamerton]

Just arrived today, nicely presented looking forward to reading later. :lol1:

[Gordon Forbes]

Got mine today Ewe must be makin a fooorrttuuuunne

Look forward to reading it Phill

[Harry Cleary]

Is it true that it’s been shortlisted for the Booker Prize and Linda Nolan is on the judging panel……….or was that a dream? 😮 😀

[John Callaghan]

Book arrived yesterday, had a quick flick through – its a great read and your advice is second to none! Like learning to drive with your father I seemed to have picked up a lot of bad habits through the self taught trial and error method – thanks for the clear cut advice & tips on the basics, Phil! Your encouragement to newbies in the trade is most refreshing. New talent is the lifeblood to any industry. As someone who is still learning 2 years after buying my first cutter I would say to all the lurkers here (at the moment there are 10 registered users and 15 guests) – sign up to UKsignboardsand get a copy of Phil’s book – could be a real jump start to your career!

Harry C – as a fellow Irishman I have had many dreams featuring the Nolan sisters – but never involving cut vinyl!

[Harry Cleary]

quote John Callaghan:

Harry C – as a fellow Irishman I have had many dreams featuring the Nolan sisters – but never involving cut vinyl!

you haven’t lived John!!! 😀 😀

[Steve Goddard]

I’ve just ordered the book, it looks pretty awesome so I can’t wait for it to come 😀

[Joseph Helm]

Lulu doesn’t seem very fast considering they say 3-5 days for delivery (11 days later)

I’m sure the wait will be worth it in the end 🙂

[Kenny Ramsey]

Been going through mine. Great job Phil. A few different pointers and techniques I haven’t thought of before. Seems so simple yet they make all the difference.

Definitely happy with the purchase 😎

[Lorraine Clinch]

Just now ordered a copy Phil, looking forward to discovering what I’ve been doing wrong all these years! 🙄

Lorraine

[Graeme Harrold]

Just ordered mine on "mega super fast" delivery, so will see you this afternoon Phill with my signed copy…………….. :lol1: :lol1: The personal touch is worth the little extra.

Its the only way I think they could justify £98 for delivery :lol1:

Sorry Im a Tight Ar$e and went for standard postage…………just got to wait for a postie…..

[Lorraine Clinch]

Well, I have no complaints on delivery Phil-ordered Monday, delivered 10 minutes ago! (£7.50 Fed-Ex).
So far looks good, I look forward to a good read. Very tempted to forget the customers and do it anyway!

[Graeme Harrold]

Happy camper too…………..ordered Monday and delivered at 10 this morning…….

[Scott.Evans]

congratulations Phil

I have just placed my order and iam sure i will lean some things from it.

just looking 😮

Lulu Sales Rank: 6,545
6,545 x £23.02 = Millionaire
well not quite yet, you wont need to work now phil, have a early retirement
:lol1: :lol1: :lol1:

[Scott.Evans]

quote Scott Evans_21:

congratulations Phil

I have just placed my order and iam sure i will lean some things from it.

just looking 😮

Lulu Sales Rank: 6,545
6,545 x £23.02 = Millionaire
well not quite yet, you wont need to work now phil, have a early retirement
:lol1: :lol1: :lol1:

lean wont back to bed i think

[John Childs]

quote Scott Evans_21:

Lulu Sales Rank: 6,545
6,545 x £23.02 = Millionaire

I’m sure Phill will correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think he gets all of the takings, and a bit goes on production and distribution.

Keep working Phill. Won’t be long though. 😀

[Graeme Harrold]

Also I dont think ranking equates to actual sales, the more he sells the lower his ranking will be………………untill it hits bestseller No 1 :lol1:

[Roger Clements]

Just recently joined the site but before that I had ordered your book Phill…looking forward to the postie dropping it through the letter box….I am in serious need of edification….so :thanks2:

[Tim Cockings]

Have just received my copy and read it already!!

Phill’s book is full of useful information. We have been in business for nearly two years now and a lot of useful information has been gleaned. A lot of the book confirms that most of the time we are doing it right.

But a lot of it just shows how green we actually are at this stage of growing our business. The article on pricing is particularly interesting as is marketing.

Well done to Phill for an honest and representative profile of what it is actually like to start a new business.

Thanks

Tim

[Roger Clements]

Well Phills’ book arrived, very promptly I must say. What a little gem it is too. I have read, re-read and re-read it.

Many thanks Phill for the effort and time put in producing this little gem.

[Graeme Harrold]

TYPO on page 70 :lol1: what is gluel ??

See I have read it………thanks Phill :lol1:

[Phill Fenton]

phew – if that’s the only typo error you’ve spotted I’m quite releived :lol1: :lol1:

I’ll be updating the text shortly to deal with these errors 😕 😳

[Graeme Harrold]

quote Phill:

phew – if that’s the only typo error you’ve spotted I’m quite releived :lol1: :lol1:

I’ll be updating the text shortly to deal with these errors 😕 😳

Too busy taking in the raw data to spot the rest :lol1:

[Roger Clements]

quote Graeme Harrold:

TYPO on page 70 :lol1: what is gluel ??

See I have read it………thanks Phill :lol1:

I was too much of a gentleman to mention it….. :wave:

[Chris Walker]

Bought book a few weeks ago, still using it all the time, great buy!
Has real insight and is of great relevance to my company in its infancy! Cheers Phil!

[Andrew McCreadie]

10% Discount back

JULYCONTEST10

Sorry Phil if this affects your profits 🙂

Andy

[Phill Fenton]

Thanks for discovering that Andrew. (it doesn’t affect my royalties)

I think I’m beginning to detect a pattern here and would suggest in future entering the code ""currentmonth"contest10" in future for anyone buying a copy in future months. 😀

[Arslan mostefa kara]

I like the book Phil! when I started my company in 2007 I was looking for a book like this or a course to have some knowledge about the industry
That really came very handy

thanks

Arslan

[Steve Pugsley]

Just ordered this looking forward to reading it.

[Lee O’keefe]

Hi phil

Looks like a great book. "Well done to you both". I will have to get hold of one soon.

Just out of interest how many copies have you sold

Regards

Lee

[Phill Fenton]

quote Lee O’keefe:

Just out of interest how many copies have you sold

Given that the subject matter has quite a narrow field of interest, in the general scheme of things, not that many 😀

[Karl Williams]

quote Phill:

quote Lee O’keefe:

Just out of interest how many copies have you sold

Given that the subject matter has quite a narrow field of interest, in the general scheme of things, not that many 😀

I’ll wait till I can get one from the car boot sale for 20p 😉 :lol1: :lol1: :lol1:

[Neil Speirs]

quote Phill:

quote Lee O’keefe:

Just out of interest how many copies have you sold

Given that the subject matter has quite a narrow field of interest, in the general scheme of things, not that many 😀

Just wait till Amazon list it on there top 10 chrimbo presents 😉

[Shaun Cleary]

Just placed my order.

[Paul Humble]

Finally got round to ordering the book, does it need translating from Scottish to Mackem English?

[Andrew Bennett]

quote Paul Humble:

Finally got round to ordering the book, does it need translating from Scottish to Mackem English?

Unfortunately yes!
Send me £200 and I’ll do it for free 🙄

[Clive Martinez]

Just ordered a copy – Well done!

Clive

[Paul S Martin]

Hi Phil

How many copy’s sold now M8 must be in the hundreds, Good on ya.

Paul 😉

[Doug Pulver]

Just ordered a copy, thanks

[Clive Martinez]

Today has been a month since I ordered the book… and still no sign of it.
Has it taken anyone else this long?

[Phill Fenton]

Orders placed at this time of year do take a bit longer.

Here is Lulu’s FAQ page for orders placed in the run up to Christmas
http://www.lulu.com/en/help/shipping_faq

Have you checked to progress of your order with LULU? – They will email you once it has been sent out.

[Clive Martinez]

Phil,

The truth is I didn’t think it had been a month already so I haven’t done anything about it until today.
I have emailed them, so I’ll just wait for their reply….

Regards

CLive

[Harry Cleary]

You know Lulu, Phill? Coooool!

[John McCrorie]

quote Clive Martinez:

Phil,

The truth is I didn’t think it had been a month already so I haven’t done anything about it until today.
I have emailed them, so I’ll just wait for their reply….

Regards

CLive

I ordered my book last Sunday and it arrived on the Friday

[Clive Martinez]

Got my copy today, after 33 days since placing the order…
Better late than never!

Regards

Clive

[Peter McGarry]

Finally back on the forum after 5 months thanks to Sky broadband messing my account up after moving home and have ordered Phil’s book. Looking forward to getting some expert advice.

Incidentally, entered the discount code hohoho and received 20% discount, so those without a copy have no excuse now

Peter

[David Rowland]

quote Harry Cleary:

You know Lulu, Phill? Coooool!

Born at Lennox Castle! just up the road from some of you and where my gran met my grandfather!

[Robert Lambie]

Dave, that being the case, she might have run around with your gran mate, similar ages? :lol1:

mind you, wish my gran looked like that! 😕 :lol1:

[Peter McGarry]

Just a quick update…….

Placed my order 27.12.09 and received it 10.30 am today !!

Considering Xmas period delays, selecting standard delivery option and the lousy weather we are currently experiencing, that’s pretty good going.

[Richard Martin]

I ordered my copy today, but I hope I don’t have to wait a month for it. Looking forward to reading it.

[Richard Martin]

WOW that was quick, ordered monday delivered wednesday. Looking forward to reading it now.

[Graham . Shand]

Great Read, very handy, fast delivery too !

[Stu Gardiner]

Just downloaded this book on Kindle, and as someone who is just starting out in the Industry have found some very valuable advice, the first thing realising that I have by far been undercharging for the services I offer due to not having any real pricing strategy.

Thanks Phil…….please keep writing

[Martin Pearson]

Stu, when it comes to pricing a lot of people have problems because a lot of what we do is based on time rather than material costs, there are aids to help like the price it guide but I find the best way to check my prices is by what the other local sign companies in my area charge. I get on well with a few local companies so it’s quite easy to just ask but if you don’t know anyone local then you can either just phone and ask for a price or get someone else to. Also if you see a new sign going up don’t be afraid to ask the owner how much they paid for it.
If you win every job you quote for you are either very lucky or your prices are far to low.

[Stu Gardiner]

Thanks Martin……some good advice there, i just need to get the bottle to call some local signmakers but feel bad as i will be wasting their time.

[Richard Martin]

quote Stu Gardiner:

Thanks Martin……some good advice there, i just need to get the bottle to call some local signmakers but feel bad as i will be wasting their time.

If your nervous about calling local signmakers (i.e covering the same area) then call some that are close by but don’t cover your area. Be upfront and genuine about why you are calling them, it’ll go one of two ways, they will either tell you to F off or they maybe inclined to offer some advice. Worse thing they can say is NO.

[ThomasYaxley]

Having just read this whole thread it seems it would be silly for someone in my situation not to buy this. Ordered through amazon this morning – cant wait to have a good read of this 😀

[Lorraine Clinch]

I bought my copy when Phill first released it-I still haven’t had the time to read it…..same as my copy of Mike Stevens ‘Mastering Layout’! 😥 Maybe I should take them on holiday 🙄

Lorraine

[Martin Pearson]

I would definitely take Mike Stevens book and try and have a read if you get the chance Lorraine, in fact Phill has done a couple of tutorials based on it for the forum so you may already have read a bit of it.

You could also take Phills book with you to read if your having trouble sleeping :lol1: :lol1:

[ThomasYaxley]

2 days to arrive – thanks Phill for getting it out so quick 🙂

[Robert Lambie]

quote Lorraine Clinch:

Maybe I should take them on holiday 🙄

Better ask Alison first Lorraine, if Phill goes on holiday shes going to be well p*ssed off without an invite! 😉 :lol1:

[Iain Sinton]

Hi Phil. Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your book and how good your book was in inspiring myself to get my finger out and get working for myself.
I have been in the sign industry since 1992 and have contemplated going self employed on many occasions but have always had an excuse not to, Family. Security. Bills to pay etc etc. but after finishing the book I feel inspired to get the business plan finished and handed in.
Although I would be mostly concentrating on vehicle graphics I still found all the book relevant.
I’m a local lad too ( Bathgate ) so may try and get in touch to pick your brains.
Thanks again
Iain

[Phill Fenton]

Thank you for the kind comments Iain,I’m glad I have helped to motivate you.

Feel free to drop by sometime if you’re in the area – but probably best to phone first as I’m often out and about leaving Alison in charge :nag2:

[James Parry]

Hi Phil,

Here’s another message from someone who found your book useful. Wanted to say thanks for all of the advice written in the book, and I’m impressed with the service Lulu offer! Speedy delivery!

I too am also in the industry and as the chap above said in his post, there has always been a reason not to start my own business. I believe the time is around the corner as your book has answered a couple of questions I had and also gave me a few bits of knowledge I hadn’t considered before which is great. I’m sorting out possible premises at the moment, and will be following your guide on building a workbench as it is simple but effective. I’m young and have a bright future ahead of me in the industry, many thanks for taking the time out of your schedule and putting some of your advice into writing!

[Lorraine Clinch]

quote Robert Lambie:

quote Lorraine Clinch:

Maybe I should take them on holiday 🙄

Better ask Alison first Lorraine, if Phill goes on holiday shes going to be well p*ssed off without an invite! 😉 :lol1:

Lol Rob, never saw this (or Martin’s) comment before!

Still haven’t read either book – does that make me a bad signmaker? 😳

[Phill Fenton]

quote James Parry:

Hi Phil,

Here’s another message from someone who found your book useful. Wanted to say thanks for all of the advice written in the book,

Thank you James – and good luck with your new business. 😀

quote Lorraine Clinch:

Still haven’t read either book – does that make me a bad signmaker? 😳

Of course not – But may I suggest that if you haven’t read it, it can still serve a useful purpose, perhaps propping up an uneven table leg in the pub? 😕

[Robert Lambie]

Just spotted this thread has well over 54 thousand views and nearly 200 replies. Great stuff Phill… so when does your next best seller "50 Shades of Vinyl" come out? 😉