Since a few guys have asked, here is a step by step tutorial on how I restore the faded lettering on vintage brushes. First, let me make it clear that I did not come up with this method on my own, I simply used the knowledge and experience of other guys that have been doing this a long time. So that's who the real credit goes to, not me.

Here is an Ever-Ready 300N nylon brush that I've removed the old knot from and am waiting for a knot to come from TGN to install. Since the lettering is spread out on this one I'm just going to do one section at a time, just so there's less wet paint to mess with each time.



The first step is to saturate the lettering with paint, in this case it's Testors flat black model car paint, $1.59 a bottle at Hobby Lobby. I applied the paint with a Q-tip, making sure the word NYLON is completely covered.



I then wiped of the excess paint with a couple small piece of newspaper, going from left to right. Paper towel or a cloth works as well, I just tore off a few pieces of the newspaper I had the handle setting on.



After allowing it to dry in the bright sun we're having today I applied a second coat of paint and wiped it off going right to left to make sure the letters are filled in completely.



After letting it set in the sun and dry thoroughly I then used Simichrome and Q-tips to polish off the excess.





I'll finish it up over the weekend doing each section individually. I have had a couple that have had little scratches or gouges, there's one on this one right above the Y that the paint gets in. You can see it in the third picture. I clean those out with a toothpick or a pin if they don't clean up with the Q-tip and polish.

Hope this helps!

Motion has been made to add this to our Tutorials.

Can I second that? If so I second it.

HT, this is a great thread. I hope you will post pictures of the completed restore.

Thank you for the great info.

GREAT info Tom thanks for sharing.....I'd also like to see this post added to the Tutorials..... After all you can simply "NEVER" have to much info about razors, blades,soaps/creams,technique,pre/post shaves and repairing/restoring......

Pssst. Take a look at what forum you're in

I never look before answering.....

Thanks Tom!! Very nice. Now I see the missing pieces from the ideas I was having about doing it. Off to the hobby store!

Glad to be of help.

I started working on a couple of brushes that just arrived. The work is in progress, but so far, so good.

ics:

Great Tutorial, I will try your method.

So far, I am working on 3 handles. They are not yet done, but here they are, as works in progress.

I think the "Made Rite" is taking paint better than the others. But all are easier to read than before.

I finished the brushes. Here they are;

Purdy good.

Very nice!!

Super job!!!

Thanks guys. I was also wondering what (if anything) you can use as a sealant, to protect the newly restored lettering.