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A male and female die is used in combination with heat and pressure to form a raised image (emboss) or a recessed image (deboss). Dies can be single level, multi-level, sculptured or beveled.

A few tips when specifying embossing:

• It is important to note if ink is to be applied to the embossed or debossed image, or if it is a "blind" emboss or deboss (no ink on or touching the emboss area).
• Paper must be specified prior to making the die.
• Finished embossing will appear to be slightly smaller than the original art.
• Letterspace type more than normal to allow room for the die bevel.
• Artwork should be vector line art (i.e., Illustrator) rather than a raster (pixel) image.
• Art for multi-level dies should be created in Illustrator with separate color-coded levels. Each die level should be on a separate layer in the file.
• Provide a laser proof of the die art, and mark each layer: "paper level", "1 level above paper" or "1 level below paper" etc.
• A multi-level or gradually-curved die on thick stock will give the maximum impression.
• Multi-level embossing or debossing requires a brass die.
• Don't use thin rule weights; 2-point rules or thicker are optimum.
• Paper may wrinkle if embossed images are placed too close to the edge.
• Avoid borders near folds, or the piece may not fold in the right place.
• A cross-grain emboss may cause buckling.