Side-Lit Channel Letters

Side-lit channel letters use translucent acrylic returns so light escapes through the sides of each character. The face can remain opaque, light independently, or use a contrasting metal or acrylic finish. This construction emphasizes the depth of the letters and produces a different effect from both face-lit and edge-lit channel letters.

angles. The face, returns, and LEDs can use different colors—for example, an opaque metal face with blue illuminated sides, or a white illuminated face with red returns. Internal diffusion has to prevent individual LED modules from showing through the acrylic. Side-lit letters are used for retail stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and architectural signs. See our edge-lit vs. side-lit comparison for the construction differences.

Side-Lit Channel Letters FAQ

How is side-lit different from edge-lit channel letters?

Side-lit letters use translucent acrylic returns so light shines through the sides of the letter body. Edge-lit letters instead illuminate through a thick acrylic face, with light refracting along the outer edges — a different construction for a different effect.

Can side-lit channel letters combine multiple colors?

Yes. Businesses can select different colors for the face, returns, and LEDs independently — for example, an opaque metal face with blue-illuminated sides, or a white-illuminated face with red returns.