Open-face LED neon channel letters and marquee bulb letters

These two styles show their light source on purpose. They give a sign the warmth of old neon and theater marquees, without the glass.

Open-face channel letters, also called exposed neon or neon-style letters, are 304 stainless steel channels with no face. LED neon runs along the centerline of each stroke, held by clips and usually set toward the front of the channel, so the line of light reads clearly from the street. LED neon is flexible silicone, runs on 12 V and does not get hot the way glass neon does. The channel can be painted black or any color, brushed stainless or gold, and the neon comes in white, warm white or colors. Each stroke is fitted by hand, so a small open-face sign can cost as much as a much larger front-lit one. The open-face neon guide covers the look and the care. Compared with a front-lit letter, which glows as an even face, an open-face letter shows the line of light itself.

Marquee letters, also called light-up or bulb letters, are deep, open metal letters with a row of bulbs across the face. They come as indoor plug-and-play letters with a 120 V plug, or as a weatherproof build for permanent outdoor use, which an electrician connects. Finishes include painted, pre-rusted galvanized steel and brushed stainless. They are made for venues, restaurants, event rentals, weddings and photo walls, where letters about 3 to 5 ft tall are common; see the marquee letters guide.

Both styles suit a bar or lounge and events and weddings. The price estimator gives a first range.