We sit down with Danger sign

Some of you know him as Matt but most will recognise him as Danger sign.

Matt Marson will paint pretty much anything. From pinstriping to signwriting, he’s keeping the spirit of old-school custom hot rod shops alive. Here is a quick look into his world of high-speed paint and low-ten gassers.

When did you first pick up the brush?

For my 30th birthday, friends bought me a ticket to a class. I wasn't in the right headspace then and kept putting it aside, unhappy with my work. Nine years ago, I finally decided to give it a proper go, took to it really well, and haven't stopped since.

Did you ever think you'd be working on cars like the ones behind you?

No way. I still have to pinch myself. It keeps you humble, but it’s strange waking up to lay paint on a car that does 200 mph down a drag strip, a Gasser running low tens, or a one-of-a-kind build that made the cover of Kustom Car magazine.

What are you working on today?

I’m two and a half days into painting Bob Main's 'Challenging Times' Funny Car. He wants a look inspired by the edge of the 1970s. It’s a big old lump of a car so it’s slow going, but it’s a brilliant project because I get to use a lot of different styles.

Where did the inspiration for these graphics come from?

Bob shared a photo of a car he liked, though it was a completely different color. We collaborated on a fresh design based on that image. The final look has a little bit of that original car, a little bit of Bob, and a little bit of me in it.

What’s your favorite part of this build so far?

Definitely the massive lettering across the side—it’s going to be about 89 inches. Big scale pieces have so much impact. It’s a fun challenge because you're too close to see the whole thing while painting, so you have to keep stepping back to check it.

How can people get a hold of you for a quote?

Go to my website, dangersign.co.uk All my social media links run off it. Or, if you see me working at a show, just stop me for a chatter. I love what I do and I love meeting people, so don't be shy.

Any advice for someone looking to get into the custom paint scene?

If you're willing to pick up a brush, you're good enough to start. You won't like your first shaky lines, but practice is everything. I've been doing this nine years and still consider myself an intermediate. Don't get disheartened—just have a go, you won't regret it!