Welcome to our #OKalphabetseries where we visit paper and printing terms daily. Come back each day as we weave our way through the alphabet and share our 110 years of knowledge with you.
E is Emboss
The surface of a paper can have an embossed surface texture - for example, linen or felt. This is achieved in paper finishing with male and female steel, cylinder drums that have a textured surface. The paper is passed through or threaded between the drums to impart the finish with heat and pressure.
Embossing is also a printing process in which a design is stamped or pressed (embossed) into the paper to create a gorgeous raised surface onto a printed piece with a die. Often, the dies are heated. Embossing which simply stamps a graphic with no other additional color or decoration is known as a blind emboss. Embossing when combined with a foil is called foil stamping. When combined with printing inks, it is called a registered emboss. Embossing dies can be made of brass, magnesium or copper. Brass is best for long runs. Embossing is generally done after printing.