The use of embossing processes to enhance luxury labels and packaging with a raised or tactile image or lettering has become increasingly popular over the years, either used on its own to provide a visual effect through the reflection of light on differing raised image surface levels on an unprinted substrate (blind embossing) or when used in combination with printing and/or foiling (register embossing). Alternatively a relieved emboss/deboss image effect (de-bossing) can be created. Other possibilities today include tint embossing, micro embossing, holographic embossing, polished embossing (glazing), sculptured 3D embossing, continuous textured areas and graining.
These various embossing/debossing processes add a distinctive elegance to many paper-based label stock or carton board substrates used for added-value decoration of wines and spirits, food and beverages, health and beauty, cosmetics, confectionery and personal care products, as well as to some quality wrapping foils, stationery, business cards or even wall coverings. Embossing/debossing is also remarkably effective when used to provide an overall textured effect and in adding impact to something which might otherwise be quite ordinary.
Embossing/debossing may also be used for more than just aesthetic appeal. It can also be used to provide practicality – particularly for the sight impaired. Raised Braille images, for example, have been required on all food products in the UK and are starting to appear on food and wine labels in the USA. Embossing can also be used to add 2D security features and holographic effects.
·The creation of a luxury look and feel to the product
·To provide a tactile and more pleasing surface texture
·To attract attention and draw the consumer's eye or hand to the product
·To enhance text or graphics to make a design, pattern or logo stand-out
·To add elegance and sensuality to the label or packaging
·To create a higher profile image or identity for the labeled or packaged product
·To provide a relatively inexpensive way to enhance a label or pack's look and feel
·To meet a requirement for Braille on labels or packs that may be used by the blind
·To add a more expensive or added-value identity to products
·To provide anti-counterfeiting or security features
·To add dimension or ‘realism’ to flat products.
These various types of embossing effects are created by applying a texture, image, text or graphics to a label or pack substrate by raising or recessing its surface at varied angles. Frequently used with hot or cold foiling, embossing or de-bossing effectively alters the surface of a label or other substrate by creating a three-dimensional raised or sunken design or image, most commonly achieved by the use of two dies: one raised (male) and one counterforce (female), which may either be flat or rotary.
