Open Topper Painting

Brian Robertson (my Dad), has been coach painting since the 1960s. He taught me how to paint and from a young age, I was always around buses and lorries. That’s why these type of projects are always enjoyable.

We were approached in 2012 by Taybus Vintage Vehicle Society.  Proud guardians of Dundee’s famous open top double decker. The Volvo Aisla was operated by Tayside Regional Council since 1979 and ended in the loving care of Taybus. The enthusiasts wanted to restore the double decker to it’s former glory. So, shortly after we met, the team at Taybus got to work sanding the entire bus panels.

Previously painted by Brian, years earlier when he was employed with Tayside Region, the bus deserved a refurbishment. Over two to three weeks, the careful coach painting of several layers up to gloss finish, was added before the famous stripes. All paint used was coach paint enamel which helped the colour look solid and we knew it would last for years.

Artwork was supplied so that we could replicate the livery as it was originally. This involved the painting of the outlined ‘Tayside’ lettering all around the bus. Also supplied and installed was legal lettering, carefully formatted to look original. These finishing touches make the livery authentic and important to the heritage.

The bus is still used today and driven to open days and events, bringing a sense of nostalgia.

Interested in discussing how I can help you with coach painting and vehicle graphics? Get in touch to find out more.

Artwork recreated and photographs by Andrew Macintosh.