Graham’s Lettering Block

The scale is based on the fact there are but five variations in the width of the letters of the alphabet. The first space on the left represents the space between the letters.  The second letter I, the second and third the letter E and so on as shown.

In Fig. 2, A represents the center line and B.B. the line drawn to define the position of the center of the circles to be struck, the point of the compass rests on C.

 Used for hand lettering

 Source: Marble & Granite Workers Guide

Spacerite revolutionized lettering.  Metal letters are placed in a clamping board.  Each letter has notches on it to space it correctly according to the letter next to it.  Using tracing and carbon paper, a rubbing was made of the projecting letters and transferred by hammering onto the stencil sheets.  A perfect letter, perfectly spaced.

This system is still used today in many shops.

It was modernized in the 1960’s with the introduction of the stencil press.  A reverse of the letter fits in a similar tray and is pressed by compressed air into sheets of stencil.  Now the letter was spaced correctly and cut out correctly. The press is common in most shops.

A computerized system is now available to cut lettering and designs but high cost and limited capabilities have kept usage to only the largest shops.

Source:  The Dallett Company, Philadelphia, PA, sales literature