What is dimensional lettering?

Dimensional lettering is signage made from individual letters that have real, physical depth, rather than letters printed flat on a surface. It is also called raised lettering or three-dimensional lettering. Each letter is cut or cast from a solid material and mounted to a wall or sign face, so it catches light and casts a shadow that gives a building, lobby, or storefront a finished, premium look. The team at Signarama  produces dimensional lettering for interior and exterior signs of every size. 

Dimensional lettering versus flat lettering 

The difference is depth. Flat lettering is printed or applied as vinyl directly onto a surface, while dimensional lettering stands off the surface as a solid object. That depth is what makes a sign read as higher quality, because the shadows and highlights make the letters look built rather than printed. 

• Reads as premium, since real depth and shadow signal a more substantial, permanent sign. 

• Holds up over time, because solid letters do not fade or peel the way a printed graphic can. 

• Works close up, where the detail of a raised letter rewards people standing near a reception wall or entrance. 

What dimensional lettering is also called 

The same product goes by several names depending on the industry and the look. They all describe letters with genuine thickness mounted to a surface. 

• Raised lettering, the most common everyday term for letters that stand off the wall. 

• 3D letters or three-dimensional letters, names that emphasize the depth. 

• Channel letters, a specific type of dimensional letter that is hollow and internally illuminated. 

Materials used for dimensional letters 

Dimensional letters are made from a range of solid materials, and the choice sets the look, weight, and durability. The right material depends on whether the sign is indoors or out and how formal the finish needs to be. 

• Acrylic, a versatile, cost-effective option available in many colors and thicknesses. 

• Metal such as aluminum, brass, bronze, or stainless steel, for a durable, high-end finish on building and lobby signs. 

• High-density foam, lightweight letters that can be painted or faced for large exterior sizes. 

• PVC, a rigid plastic that balances cost and a clean, modern look. 

How dimensional letters are mounted 

How a letter attaches to the wall affects both the look and the install. The method is chosen to match the surface and the depth of shadow you want. 

• Flush mount, letters sit directly against the wall for a clean, simple look. 

• Stud mount, letters are pinned slightly off the surface for a subtle shadow. 

• Standoff mount, spacers hold the letters well off the wall for a strong, dramatic shadow. 

Common uses for dimensional lettering 

Dimensional lettering shows up wherever a brand wants to look established and permanent. It is equally at home outdoors on a building and indoors on a feature wall. 

• Building exteriors, company names and logos mounted above entrances and on facades. 

• Lobby and reception walls, the first impression a visitor sees on entering. 

• Monument and ground signs, raised letters set into a freestanding base. 

• Retail and office interiors, wayfinding and brand walls throughout a space. 

Indoor versus outdoor dimensional lettering 

Indoor letters can use lighter materials and a wider range of finishes because they are protected from weather. Outdoor letters need materials and coatings that stand up to sun, rain, and temperature swings, which is why metal and sealed foam are common choices for exteriors. Signarama  matches the material and finish to where the sign will live. 

Choosing the right dimensional lettering 

If the sign needs to be lit, channel letters add internal illumination to the same dimensional look, and for sculptural or oversized pieces, 3D signs and lettering open up more options. Share the surface, the size, and whether the sign is indoors or out, and Signarama  can recommend the material, mounting, and finish to fit.