Sign types & fabrication
What is push-thru?
Also called: Push-through letters
Push-thru letters are acrylic letterforms that pass through matching cutouts in an opaque panel, so the letters physically project and glow while the panel stays dark.
The panel — usually ACM or aluminum over a lightbox — is routed with the letter shapes; thick acrylic letters, slightly stepped, push through from behind and sit proud of the face. Light comes only through the acrylic, giving crisp day/night contrast and lit edges that read premium.
The craft is in tolerances: router offset must match the acrylic step or letters rattle or won't seat, and edge-lit acrylic shows every saw mark. It prices between cabinet and channel letters and often wins the 'channel letter look, tighter budget' conversation.
Related terms
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