Virtual London Type Safari
Route 2: Crafted by hand

Learn why you judge a shop by its sign. Discover the influence of sign writers, secrets & DIY.

Discover London’s secrets. This is the second of two different virtual tours that explore the stunning signs and intriguing social history of Dalston, a vibrant area in East London.

Discover that signs are the voices of the high street; from DIY lettering, secret in-the-know symbols, to the craft of the sign writer. This is part of a two-part series of virtual tours exploring Dalston, a vibrant area in East London.

Sarah's virtual type safaris have been a huge hit in 2020 at virtual events including Lockdown Letterheads and Adobe MAX.

New smell along feature. 
When you book your ticket you'll receive a list of easy-to-source items to gather up in advance, many of which you should be able to find in your own home. 

😀“That was really cool. thank you. I woke up at 1.30am to watch”
 Vicki

😀“Such an amazing tour, thank you!” Montse

😀“That was so much fun” Christine

😀“Thank you for the virtual type tour of Dalston! I never noticed the beautiful signs and pieces of history when I was there before.” Radina

A Type Safari with a sketchbook challenge is available for colleges and universities, contact Sarah for details.


About Sarah's Type Safaris
Type Safaris are suitable for all. No prior knowledge (or interest in) fonts is needed. They are delivered live via Zoom so you can join in and ask questions.

• Compare East London with your local neighbourhood
• Discover clues to spot quintessential businesses from the past
• Explore ornate signs previously hidden from view
• Find out whether you judge a pub by its sign
• Revisit iconic Dalston signs that have since disappeared

Routes 1 and 2 follow on from each other and can also be enjoyed as separate, stand-alone events.

Hello, I'm Sarah. I'm the author of a number of books including 'Why Fonts Matter' and 'How to Draw Type and Influence People'. I'm a TEDx speaker, a regular guest on BBC Radio 4 and I sometimes appear on TV on shows like Channel 4's Sunday Brunch.

I make typography exciting for everybody, not just experts. Have you ever wondered whether you judge a shop or pub by its sign? Or why you judge a product by its packaging? Over the last seven years, I've welcomed thousands of people to my events and workshops. Now I'm excited that I can bring these experiences directly to you wherever you are in the world.

Download a free set of ‘Greetings from London’ Route 2 postcards to print out and colour in here.

Would you like to know more?
Sign up to the mailing list here. Find out about all virtual events here. Arrange a private tour for your group here.