Call us at (805) 641-1387


Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


What are Reverse Channel Letter Signs?

Reverse Channel Letters are a great way to bring a more nuanced approach to signs designed to catch the eye. While this type of signage still employs electric light to ensure visibility in the dark and to draw attention, the light is installed on the reverse side of outward facing signage in such a way that it is projected onto the surface behind it. This type of ambient light has a softer appeal, less harsh than neon and easier to read than light projected onto a flat sign.

Reverse Channel Letters Sign
Bombay Bar & Grill located in downtown Ventura, CA.

Reverse channel letters are customizable in a variety of ways because there are more variables and elements of choice associated with them than with ordinary signs. The sign’s face is the most standard element, which is usually designed in accordance with a given brand’s custom fonts and colors.

Moving beyond the face of the sign is when design starts to come into play, with several elements to consider. “Return” refers to the sign’s depth, and can range from 3 to 8 inches. Often, the dimension of reverse channel letters signs’ returns will depend on more than just design: lease agreements or local ordinances may dictate the type of return that is appropriate for your sign.

Reverse Channel Letters Sign
Rice Thai Cuisine located in downtown Ventura, CA.

The other major variable in a reverse channel letter sign is the light source. Modern iterations of these signs will almost always include LED lights as opposed to neon, but both the color and intensity of the light is completely customizable. Using light projected onto the surface behind the sign produces a halo effect, centering the viewer’s attention on the letters surrounded by light.

Reverse Channel Letters Sign
Shanghai Beer Garden formerly located in downtown Ventura, CA.

Dave’s Signs has a well-established history of customizing and creating reverse channel letter signs for a variety of clients and purposes. To learn more, or to begin planning your reverse channel letter sign today, give us a call at (805) 641-1387 or reach out to us online.

Dave’s Signs Blog

This is a blog about signs. We highlight the different types of signs: signs we’ve created for our customers, history of sign design and today’s cutting edge sign technologies. Ask a question about signs, and you’ll likely find the answer here.

Case Studies

Spencer Makenzies Neon Sign

Here we go into detail on some of the custom signs we’ve done. Including Spencer Makenzie’s Neon Sign, Topper’s Pizza Neon Signs in the Oxnard Harbor, and The Historic Ventura Pole Sign. Check back with us. We’ll have more case studies of signs posted in the near future.

Custom Signs Near You

Saloon BBQ Custom Sign

We’ve designed, fabricated, installed and serviced signs all over southern California. Here are some highlighted areas near you including Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara. Check back soon for more updates.

Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


Neon Sign Design Computer

We Make Beautiful Neon Signs in Our On-Site Facility

Dave’s Signs has perfected the art of neon signs. We can handle all sizes of neon signage, from the small intricate signs to the eye-catching, large neon signs. Ask us for a personalized quote or contact us for any questions you may have about neon signage.

See Our Neon Sign Gallery


Dave’s Signs Makes Custom Office Signs

Whether you need a lobby sign, directional signage or ADA signs, Dave’s Signs can help you with all your office sign needs. We can use your logo and create a beautiful, distinctive sign for your office. We can also create custom building directory signs, suite signs, and directional signs to give the building a unique unified theme. Call us today to help you with all your office sign needs.

See Our Custom Signs

Custom Sign Design Grove Avenue