Bruce, you could go to a vinyl sign shop. They use computerized cutting machines. give them the dimensions or a template and they will cut it for you.

I feel you could stay 1/16" away from the rubber gasket and still retain the visual effect from eye level that you had 100% coverage.

Go to the sign people and ask for some scraps to play around with, and make some tests. Any color and size pieces, just to see how it goes on for you and how close to the rubber you have to be to please you.

You will be able to remove the vinyl with a hair dryer/heat gun, and razor blade assist.

I like the programmable LED sign Idea of yours'.