3D Letters Melbourne: Materials, Depth and Installation Guide
3D letters are individual letters and logo shapes with real thickness, fixed to a wall, fascia or sign. They look sharper than flat vinyl, throw shadows, and can be lit. This guide explains what 3D letters are made from, how much depth you need, the difference between illuminated and non-illuminated letters, and how they are installed.
If you are ready for a price, go straight to our 3D lettering service page. If you are still working out what to buy, read on.
What are 3D letters?
A 3D letter is a letter, number or logo shape cut from a thick material, so it stands out from the surface behind it. Unlike printed vinyl, which sits flat on the surface, 3D letters have an edge you can see and feel. They are used on shopfronts, office fascias, reception walls, event installations and sports venues.
You may also see them called dimensional letters, built-up letters or 3D signs. In this guide, “3D letters” means the letters themselves. For the full process of quoting and ordering them from DSS, see our 3D lettering page.
3D letter materials
| Material | Look and feel | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Available in 3, 6, 10, 20 and 30 mm | Smooth, clean edges, many colours, gloss or matte | Offices, reception walls, indoor and sheltered outdoor use | Gloss can scuff; thickness affects depth |
| Foam-based board (such as PVC foam) Available in 10 and 20 mm | Light, painted or wrapped finish | Large letters, events, installations, short to medium term | Less tough than metal |
| Aluminium Usually 0.6 mm sheet | Crisp, can be painted or brushed | Outdoor fascias, long-term signs | Heavier; needs suitable fixings |
| Aluminium composite Available in 3 mm | Flat, smooth painted finish | Flat cut-out letters and signs, indoor and outdoor | Not as deep or heavy-duty as solid or fabricated letters |
| Stainless steel Usually 0.6 mm sheet | Premium polished or brushed finish | Premium fascias and lobbies | Highest material cost of the common options |
| Fabricated (built-up) letters | Hollow letters with a face and returns | Illuminated letters and larger signs | Made to order; more labour |
We cut letters using our CNC and laser cutting capability and fabricate built-up letters in our workshop. Material availability changes, so confirm at quote stage.
AAMI Park 3D metal letters and logo on a red wall
How deep should 3D letters be?
Depth (thickness) changes how the letter looks and how it is fixed:
- Thin (around 3 to 10 mm): a subtle raised look, often cut from sheet. We cut acrylic in 3, 6 and 10 mm and aluminium composite in 3 mm. Good for indoor walls and glass-side signs.
- Medium (around 10 to 25 mm): a clear step off the wall with visible edges. We make acrylic in 10 and 20 mm and foam board in 10 and 20 mm. A good all-round choice for reception and shopfront use.
- Deep (25 mm and more, or fabricated returns): strong shadow and presence from a distance. We make acrylic in 30 mm, and fabricated letters for illuminated and large fascia signs.
These are rough ranges, not rules. The best depth depends on viewing distance, letter size and lighting. Tell us where it will be seen from and we will recommend one.
Illuminated vs non-illuminated 3D letters
Non-illuminated 3D letters rely on daylight and shadow. They are simpler, cost less, and need no power. Illuminated 3D letters add LEDs so the sign can be read after dark.
- Face-lit: the front of the letter glows. Brightest and most readable at night.
- Halo-lit (back-lit): light shines behind the letter onto the wall for a soft glow.
- Edge-lit: light shows through the sides or edges of the letter.
You can combine methods. See illuminated signs for how illuminated 3D letters compare with lightboxes and neon, or read our blog post on 3D illuminated letters vs lightbox, LED and neon. For a freestanding sign on a post, see our pylon signs, and for lettering on an office or reception wall, see our reception signs.
FAC illuminated 3D letters at night
Indoor or outdoor 3D letters
Indoor letters can be made from lighter materials with delicate finishes. Outdoor letters face sun, rain and wind, so use weather-rated materials, paint or finishes and proper fixings. Tell us if the letters will be outside, near the coast or in direct sun.
How 3D letters are installed
- Direct fix with studs or pins: letters are drilled and mounted on pins through a template, leaving a small gap from the wall. Common for acrylic and metal.
- Adhesive: suited to light letters on smooth surfaces.
- Mounted on a backing panel or raceway: the letters go onto a panel that is fixed to the wall. Useful for brick, cladding or when you do not want to drill many holes in the building.
- Free-standing or supported letters: for events and installations, such as the AHOY letters we installed for an event.
The wall surface decides the method. Brick, render, timber, glass and metal cladding each need different fixings. Send a photo and we will advise. Installation can be arranged through installation services.
AHOY 3D letters installed for an event
Choosing between 3D letters and other sign types
- Want an even glowing panel? A light box may suit better.
- Want something warm and decorative for a bar or café? See custom neon signs.
- Need changing messages? See LED and digital signage.
- Not sure? Our signage Melbourne guide covers all the main sign types.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 3D letters and flat vinyl letters?
3D letters have thickness, so they stand off the wall and cast shadow. Vinyl letters are flat on the surface. 3D letters look more premium and can be lit.
What are 3D letters made from?
Common materials are acrylic, foam-based board, aluminium, aluminium composite and stainless steel. Illuminated letters are usually fabricated with a face, returns and LEDs.
Can 3D letters be used outside?
Yes, with weather-rated materials and fixings. Tell us where the letters will go.
Do 3D letters need power?
Only if they are illuminated. Non-illuminated letters need no power.
Can you make a logo in 3D?
Yes, we can cut logos and shapes as well as letters. Send vector artwork if you have it.
Ready for a quote on 3D letters?
Head to our 3D lettering page, call 1300 309 735, email dss@dss.net.au, or request a quote with a photo of the wall and your logo.