With over 40 years of experience, our team delivers specialist historic painting and signwriting services for heritage vehicles.
We restore the classic beauty of locomotives, carriages, traction engines and other vehicles with the care, skill, and historical accuracy they deserve.
Whether you’re a heritage railway operator, museum, preservation group, or private collector, we offer expert repainting and traditional signwriting tailored to the needs of historically significant rolling stock.
We offer space and housing to undertake your project at our site or alternatively, our MotionWorks experts can come to you!
Our Services
Authentic Repainting
We recreate original paint schemes using traditional methods and finishes. Our process begins with thorough historical research to ensure accurate colour matching and livery detailing. We offer traditional brush coach painting honouring the original style of the vehicle.
We prepare every vehicle with attention to detail, ensuring a flawless base for long-lasting results.
Traditional Hand Signwriting
Our skilled signwriters recreate historic railway lettering, numbering, insignias, and lining by hand using period-correct techniques and materials. From railway company crests to detailed lining and gold leaf work, we pride ourselves on true craftsmanship and historical fidelity.
No shortcuts. Just traditional signwriting – the way it was meant to be done.
Protective Finishes
To ensure your rail vehicle withstands the test of time, we apply durable clear coats, varnishes, and weatherproof finishes while maintaining the traditional look. Every job is completed with preservation in mind.
Past Projects
From full trainsets to individual coaches, we’ve worked on a wide range of heritage vehicles across the UK. Contact us to learn more.
Why Choose ELR MotionWorks?
Historically Accurate Workmanship
Hand-Painted & Signwritten Finishes
Custom Colour Matching & Livery Recreation
Experienced in Traction Engines, Steam, Diesel and Carriage Restoration
