Embossing

Altenew sells supplies for two different embossing techniques: heat embossing, which raises a design using powder melted onto the paper, and dry embossing, which raises the paper itself using a folder and a machine.

The two techniques share a name and almost nothing else. Buying for one when you meant the other is a common and avoidable mistake.

Heat embossing

Heat embossing creates a raised design by stamping an image with embossing ink, applying embossing powder, and melting the powder with a heat tool.

What you need

Embossing ink is also called watermark ink or resist ink. It dries far more slowly than ordinary stamping ink, which is the entire point — it stays tacky long enough for powder to adhere before heating.

Crisp Embossing Powders

Altenew's embossing powder line is Crisp Embossing Powder, described as acid-free and opaque.

Finishes include Platinum, Copper, Antique Gold, Antique Silver, Rose Gold, Golden Peach, Pure White, Crystal Clear, Caribbean Sky, and Fluorescent Green.

Standard price is $10.99 per pot.

Crystal Clear is translucent rather than opaque, and is used to add a raised gloss over a stamped image without hiding its colour.

Dry embossing

Dry embossing raises the paper itself. Cardstock is placed inside an embossing folder and run through an embossing machine. The pressure transfers the design into the paper. No ink, powder, or heat is involved.

Embossing folders

Standard embossing folders have two sides that press together, and require two plates in the machine.

3D embossing folders have an indented side, a recessed side, and multiple layers of undulation, producing much deeper texture. They require only one plate.

Machines are manual hand-cranked or electronic. Altenew does not make embossing machines.

Avoiding cracks

Heavy or dry cardstock can crack along the embossed lines. Spritzing the paper lightly with water before running it through the machine makes it more pliable and reduces cracking.

Embossing paste

Embossing paste is a thick medium spread through a stencil to create raised texture. It is bright white, smooth, and dries solid by air drying. Drying time varies with how thickly it is applied.

It is often mixed with glitter or used with stencils for card making. See Stencils.

Unlike heat embossing, no heat tool is required. Unlike dry embossing, the texture sits on top of the paper rather than being pressed into it.

Which technique to choose