Embossing refers to the impression of a design, decoration, lettering or pattern that can be done blind (with no printed image) or registered (aligned with a printed image). It's a process that can really enhance the look and feel of a business card or promotional design.

At its core, debossing is the polar opposite of embossing, and as such, it's possible to categorise in the same way: Blind Debossing and Registered Debossing.

To differentiate between these two established printing techniques (both of which are effective for a wide variety of card stocks), let’s explore two clearcut definitions for your reference:

Fundamentally, blind embossing is the method of creating raised logos or characters without the use of ink. Typically, two metal dies are used for this process: one with a raised logo or detail, and another with matching but recessed logo or detail. When a sheet of paper is pressed between these dies, often using metal plates, the act of blind embossing takes place.

A blind emboss or deboss will produce a far more subtle effect than registered emboss, therefore it is not as suitable for finer details, especially small text. A registered emboss leans itself toward more intricate, busy or miniature designs.

The main difference between blind and registered embossing is that with the latter, the embossed design, image or graphic is printed with ink before it is raised. Images may also be foiled or printed with spot UV, before it is registered embossed.

Both of these emboss techniques are branches of heat and while the results are different for each, both leave a deep impression that serve to enhance the aesthetics of a business card, letterhead, or any other form of promotional material, significantly.

For quick reference, here are some essential attributes of blind, registered and foil embossing explained with supporting graphics: