Packaging Decoration Focus - Embossing/Debossing

Embossing vs debossing. Two very useful decoration techniques, but the difference between them can be very confusing. That's why we outline the key differences between the two in this article. We hope it helps!

What is debossing vs embossing?

Embossed Packaging

An embossed design stands out from the surface of the component and a debossed design is sunk into the surface. Using different textures between the surface of the component and the surface of the design can add a subtle enhancement to the design to make it more noticeable. Either technique is an innovative way to include your branding on your packaging, as it can offer a tactile dimension to your product and can give your customer a quality first impression of your brand.

Embossing and Debossing Development

Debossed Lid
Offered on plastic and glass bottles, jars, lids and more, the embossed or debossed design is created by having a production tool designed specifically to incorporate branding into the product. The design is incorporated into the tooling, and the finished product is “moulded” (or pressed in the case of metal components) with this design on it to produce your totally unique packaging. Whilst tooling can be expensive to develop, if the annual quantity of components is high enough, this tooling cost may sometimes be amortised (absorbed) into the cost of the packaging, meaning no upfront tooling costs.

Design

Embossing Debossing die

We work closely with our clients to help them to find the best design for their embossed component. We manage projects from beginning to end and can engage designers and other specialist skills early on in the process to ensure the best end-result. Alternatively, if clients prefer to supply their own artwork, we can utilise this to produce the embossing artwork, but certain criteria will need to be checked to ensure the clients design is technically possible to produce.