What is debossing? A special finish used to enhance printed items.

Debossing is the opposite of embossing as it creates an indent in the product. A metal die is stamped onto the front of the product, causing depressions that leave the design imprinted on the product. The indented design can be filled or alternatively be left also known as blind deboss.

This process is popular for giving printed pieces a fresh, contemporary feel. The procedure requires the use of two dies made of materials such as magnesium, copper, or brass. One of these dies is raised, while the other is recessed. These dies fit together in such a way that, when paper is pressed between them, the raised die impresses the paper into the recessed die, leaving behind a lasting debossed impression.

The success of this technique hinges on the application of precise pressure to the dies, which compresses the paper fibres and results in a permanently raised area on the paper.

When finalising your debossed designs, be sure to consider the reverse side of your printed piece. While the primary purpose is to enhance the focal point by elevating the image, it’s important to recognise that debossing also impacts the back of the printed material.

Debossing is used mainly on items such as business cards and stationery. The addition of debossing significantly enhances the visual appeal giving the product a more luxurious and expensive feel, leaving a lasting impression.

Debossing adds an element of sophistication to various printed materials, including business cards, letterheads, envelopes, invitations, books and flyers, to name a few.

What is debossing?

What is debossing?

Debossing process

The application of debossing