Dimensional Letters for Signs: Add Depth, Color, and Value to Your Signage Projects

Every sign serves a purpose! For example, a sign may exist to inform customers where to check-in, give directions to the restroom, warn pedestrians about dangerous elements, or communicate a boutique’s unique style. These are just a few examples of how signage is used.

To help achieve these signage goals, sign makers use one (or a combination) of four key design tools. The most common ways to add visual interest to a sign are color, pattern, texture, and shine. Fabricators may choose a brightly colored acrylic, like yellow, for a safety sign. Tactile texture is added to the restroom sign. A bridal shop may use a glitter acrylic, like ColorHues® Glitter, to communicate elegance on their sign. However, there is another simple way to increase the value and enhance the signage goal: dimensional lettering.

Incorporating dimensional lettering into your sign designs brings a level of depth and professionalism that flat signage just can’t match. Whether you're working on storefront signage, interior branding, or directional displays, dimensional letters increase the value of your product and in-turn, increase your profits.

What are dimensional letters?

Dimensional letters are individual letters, logos, or shapes that are cut from a material and mounted onto a surface to create a raised, 3D effect. They’re a go-to choice for permanent signage that needs to be both durable and attractive. You’ve likely seen dimensional lettering used for:

• Storefronts and retail signs
• Lobby walls and corporate offices
• Wayfinding and directional signage
• Event displays or tradeshow backdrops

How do you make signs with a 3D look?

Dimensional letters are often created using acrylic. Single-ply plastic, or flat acrylic, like Rowmark’s ADA Alternative, is a great option because of the wide variety of color options, sheet sizes, and material thicknesses available.

In addition to creating the letters themselves, using an acrylic backer with your vector cut dimensional letters applied to the face gives you unlimited versatility.

What's the difference between channel letters and dimensional letters?

While both channel letters and dimensional letters add depth to signage, the key difference lies in construction and illumination:

• Channel letters are typically made from metal or plastic and designed to house lighting, making them ideal for exterior signage that needs to be visible at night and are typically used for large exterior signs.
• Dimensional letters, on the other hand, are non-illuminated and usually crafted from materials like acrylic, metal, foam, or PVC. They offer a sleek, bold look perfect for both interior and exterior applications.

For most personalization businesses, especially those using laser cutters or routers, dimensional letters are easier to produce in-house—and with the right materials, the possibilities are endless.

Investing in equipment like the Vision engraver and the Beambox II is a strategic decision for anyone looking to create high-quality dimensional letters. These machines offer the precision and flexibility needed to craft custom signage that meets your clients' exact specifications. With the ability to effortlessly cut and shape letters, you can bring any design to life, ensuring customer satisfaction and expanding your creative possibilities.

Our sheet materials complement these machines perfectly. Available in a variety of sizes, they are specifically designed to be easily cut and manipulated, even with compact machinery like the Vision engraver and Beambox II. The quality of our materials ensures durability and an impeccable finish, making them ideal for crafting standout dimensional letters. By choosing our materials, you're not only investing in premium products but also guaranteeing that your signage will have the professional look and longevity that your customers expect.

Our Favorite Material for Creating Dimensional Letters

At JPPlus, our acrylic sheets are a customer favorite for fabricating dimensional lettering. Our collection features industry-leading brands like Rowmark and IPI so when you laser or router cut your letters, you’ll get clean, crisp cuts with ease.

Why use acrylic for signage?

• Durable and UV-stable for indoor or outdoor use
• Laserable for fine details and smooth cuts
• Available in multiple color combinations
• Ideal for layering and backer designs

A great way to add versatility and interest with dimensional letters is by using a clear or colored acrylic backer with vector-cut dimensional letters mounted to the surface. It’s clean, modern, and easy to personalize with your customer’s brand or message.

How do you mount dimensional letters?

There are several ways to mount dimensional letters depending on the material, surface, and design of your sign. We carry a variety of mounting supplies to help you get a clean, professional finish.

Popular mounting methods:

• Adhesive Tape or Glue – Best for indoor use or lightweight letters
• Stud Mounts – Metal pegs that secure letters slightly off the wall for a "floating" effect
• Standoff Hardware – Ideal for combining backers and letters or adding depth
• Magnetic Mounts – Great for interchangeable displays or modular signage systems

Pro Tip: Use a letter mounting template to make installation easier and more precise especially for multi-letter layouts.

Our top choice for mounting supplies is Gyford. They provide a range of American-made mounting solutions that cater to various aesthetics, styles, and trendy colors.

• Tamper Resistant options
• LED Standoffs
• Cost-effective choices
• Wire Suspension Kits for showcasing dimensional letter signs

Choosing the right backer, mounting materials, and material for your dimensional letters will help ensure your customer is happy and your value of your product increases! Here are some popular project ideas using dimensional lettering:

• Custom business nameplates
• Door and directional signs
• Personalized name signs for events
• Retail displays and menu boards
• Lobby signs for offices or clinics

With our broad range of sheet materials and equipment, you’re only limited by your creativity! Add dimensional letters to your next project and see your profits grow.