Deboss, Blind Deboss and Emboss: What's the Difference and When to Use Each

Blind Emboss

Deboss, blind deboss and emboss.

These are three terms that get used interchangeably in the stationery world but they are each their own process. They produce different results and knowing that distinction helps you make better decisions before the job goes to print.

What letterpress, deboss and blind deboss actually are

All letterpress printing is technically debossed. The plate presses into the surface of the paper, that's the impression you can see and feel. This can be done with ink and without ink. When done without ink it is called blind deboss. Same process, same pressure, no color. Only the impression left in the paper.

What embossing actually is and why it's different

True embossing is where the image is raised from the surface of the paper rather than presses into it. This is done using a male and female die, sometimes called the die and the counter die. The counter die presses from the back of the sheet, pushing the paper into the recessed part of the female die and raising it from the front. The result is a design that stands up from the surface rather than sinking into it.

Embossing and debossing are essentially opposites. One goes in. One comes out.

How we get blind deboss to really show

A blind deboss can be subtle, sometimes too subtle depending on the paper and design. We normally do one of two things to create a more pronounced effect.

The first is adding a 2 to 3 percent transparent color to the deboss. It's barely there but it gives the impression just enough emphasis to catch light and read clearly without introducing a visible color.

The second is running the deboss on the foil press using a copper or magnesium plate with a little heat and no foil. The metal and heat creates a crisper deeper impression. It really helps it pop, especially on heavier cotton stock where you want that depth to be felt and seen.

When to use blind deboss

Blind debossing is a wonderful way to bring texture and beautiful illustrations to your design without overpowering the focus of the invitation, which is normally the type. It works beautifully as a border treatment, a monogram or emblem, a botanical element that frames without competing. It adds a layer rewards close inspection without announcing itself.

If you want the detail to be discovered rather than immediately obvious, blind deboss is usually the right call.

Questions about whether blind deboss or embossing is right for your design? lollipopletterpress.com/lolli-press

Tom,

Lolli P