String Blade Light Orientation

Hello TCSS, Long time No See! I am currently building "MY" DL 44 (Screen Accuracy is not important). I want to put 5mm diodes behind the stock slot as the "Shot Counter". To do so, I need to put them sideways. So on to the reason I'm asking here;
LEDs are meant to light out the end, the light that escapes out the side isn't so bright.

How are the LEDs prepared so light comes from the side instead of the end?
Attachment 14989

If your using them as a shot counter then try looking for micro leds. They are small enough you should be able to place them so they emit the light in the dirrection you need. There are some on ebay ifnyou search for them. Just a thought