Text effect block outline around text

[Steven31476122wyp6]

I'm so sorry for asking what is probably super easy but I can't figure it out.  Which is frustrating to me.  I have a request to print the words LIONS on sweat pants (school spiritwear) and they want text effect shown in the attached picture.  It is a simple letter with a block outline that is separated from the letter itself.  Can someone help?   Thanks in advance

[Monika Gause]

Select the text with the selection tool (do not double click to select the characters, just select the text object). Delete the exstining stroke (if any)

Apply a new stroke via the Appearance panel.

Apply the effect > Path > Offset path to just that stroke.

Depending on the printing method you might need to expand appearance and outline strokes and text.

[Steven31476122wyp6]

Thank you so much!!!

[Monika Gause]

Glad you could solve it!