They are popularly seen in commercial areas, shopping centers, restaurants, and businesses to showcase the name or logo of the establishment. Channel letters are individually crafted characters made from various materials such as metal (usually aluminum), acrylic, or plastic. Each letter has its own separate enclosure, typically shaped like an open box.
The front face of the letter is made from translucent material, often acrylic or polycarbonate, which allows light to pass through. These signs can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Illuminated channel letters have built-in lighting components, usually LED lights.