Embossments

An embossment is a raised relief formed on a surface by pressing a pattern from the opposite side, or by using a male-female die pair to create a three-dimensional impression. The raised feature itself is called the embossment, while the process of creating it is embossing. Debossing is the opposite effect, producing a recessed design.

Techniques vary by material. In paper and textiles, dry embossing uses a pair of engraved or machined dies to push the design into the surface, yielding a tactile and visually subtle relief. Hot embossing or foil embossing applies heat and sometimes metallic foil to transfer a design and add color or shine. In metal, leather, and plastics, embossments are produced by stamping, casting, or forming processes such as repoussé and chasing in metal, or precision molding in plastics.

Applications include bookbinding and stationery, decorative wall and furniture surfaces, and branding on packaging. Embossed elements are also used for security features on documents and currency, providing a tactile marker that is harder to counterfeit. In architecture, plaster and stucco work may display embossments as ornamental reliefs.