Back-lighting sign Letters

[VOH]

I am placing some metal letters on my newly constructed workshop, just to add some character to the building. I have some 2" hallow-back galvanized letters G A R A G E. I have already started cutting out some plywood backers to help mount them to the wall. the plan is to hold the letters off the wall about 2" to 3" to allow the light to create a glow. my question is what would be the best lights to use? I am torn between some cheap Christmas light strands and some LED lights.


Any suggestions?

 

[Bsj04]

I'd use a strand old Christmas light with screw in bulbs. You would be able to alter the amount of light with a dimmer or removing bulbs. The color is what I don't like about LEDs, even the "warm white" have a hint of blue to me.

 

[alfredeneuman]

If you install the cheap incandescent ones you'll be forever changing light bulbs, and keeping track of that many is going to be a PITA.

The LED's will be running for years before they need replacement.

 

[Wirepuller]

Led tape lighting. Here's a few examples of a club house in completed this fall.

 

[roscoe2000]

I would go the LED route, longer lasting and cheaper to run.

 

[QtrHorse13]

The proper way to light halo/ reverse lit letters is to use a clear backer (Polycarbonate). Mount the LED to the clear backer facing the front of the letters so it reflects back on the wall and does not cause hot spots. As you stated, you will need to mount the letters at least 2 inches off the wall. The Backer will aslo keep birds and other small animals out.

How big are the letters; height ,depth and width? You mention 2in, is that 2in tall or deep?

Any chance you can take a pic of the letters (backside) and post it?

 

[BUGTHUG]

YEAH, what he said. Pictures

 

[Beemer533]

Get some RGB LEDs, that way you can tweak the color exactly as you want..

https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/rgb-bars-and-strips/

They also have variable white strips, if you just want to stay in the "white" color temps..

https://www.superbrightleds.com/cat/variable-white/

 

[barnjunkie]

Just do it like the professionals and go to a sign supply house like Wensco and purchase the leds by the foot and a 12 volt transformer. If you call them and tell them the footage, they can recommend what ever quality you are wiling to pay for.
They also can give you different colors, spread of light,etc.andit won't look like Christmas lights.

 

[QtrHorse13]

Just do it like the professionals and go to a sign supply house like Wensco and purchase the leds by the foot and a 12 volt transformer. If you call them and tell them the footage, they can recommend what ever quality you are wiling to pay for.
They also can give you different colors, spread of light,etc.andit won't look like Christmas lights.

There is no Wensco in TX. His only local options are Graphics Solutions in Austin or Reece Supply, Grimco or N Glantz in San Antonio. Depending on the footage he needs, I might have some laying around.

 

[barnjunkie]

 

[VOH]

Here is one of the letters for an example. They are about 20" tall, 12" wide and 2" deep. They are just simple tin letters.

 

[barnjunkie]

I'll show you what is popular with sign shops. I'm not sure what the coat is but you can go to the UL SAM and get an idea of the choices that are out there.

http://ul.com/global/documents/offerings/industries/lighting/signs/manual/SAM_October_2011.pdf

If you go to page 52, the GE Leds are very popular. You can select what colors, spread, brightness, etc. And order them through a sign supply house.

You have to get the transformer depending on your number of feet that you will need to outline the letters, and you can splice them from letter to letter using a small gage wire and wire nuts.

I would not worry with the polycarbonate because it would involve cutting that stuff which is not fun. Just peel the adhesive tape off and stick them to the inside of the letters. You'll need to make stand-offs to support the letters, but I would ditch the wood and keep it all metal to avoid the fire concern.

I think they would look cool with a blue light or whatever would fit with your space. Be sure to put your transformer in an electrical enclosure to be safe.

Good luck with your project! You'll be proud of it and you'll see why signs are son expensive!