Painting letters?

[alex grams]

I am making a sign to hang on our front door with the family name out of mahogany. However I have noticed that with the direct light the sign will get and a direct angle that the lettering will not have much shadow contrast, so I am considering painting the letters black for some better contrast.

What is the best type of paint to use? Just a simple standard exterior latex? I plan on oiling the wood with some BLO then a coat of shellac followed by some target interior/exterior EM2000 varnish.

Thoughts? Other types of paint?

[Steve. Purcell]

My own experience would point towards using a high quality spar varnish (or an Awl Grip, if you're equipped to use it). Don't use the shellac.
And I'd recommend an oil enamel for the lettering like a One Shot or Ronan.

I think that, for contrast, you want to go with a lighter color, not darker - or even gold leaf.