We’re often asked about the differences between raised ink and embossed business cards. The confusion is understandable. The processes used to create raised ink and embossed textures are both ways to get a 3D effect on an essentially 2D medium. The similarities, however, end there. Here, we definitively answer the most frequently asked questions about the differences between raised ink printing and embossing.
Are raised ink printing and embossing the same?
While both processes create a heightened 3D effect on business cards, they are definitely not the same.
What is raised ink printing?
Raised ink printing, or thermography, involves adding a special powder to wet ink. The ink is then heated to cause the powdered areas to expand, thus raising the ink well above your business card’s surface. This process
What is embossing?
In contrast to raised ink printing, embossing doesn’t need to use any ink at all. Embossing involves placing your paper or cardstock between two hard, flat surfaces called dies. These dies will have the design etched or carved into them. When the stock is placed between the two dies, pressure is applied and the pattern is permanently formed on the paper or cardstock. If any color printing is to be applied to the embossed business cards, this is typically done before the cards are embossed. This allows you to have embossed letters with any color you need.
What is debossing?
It’s exactly the same as embossing, except that the pattern is depressed into the stock rather than raised. Therefore, the back part of an embossed business card is always debossed and vice versa.
What is blind letterpress?
It’s similar to debossing in that a pattern is depressed into the paper stock. However, unlike with debossing, the indentations do not go through to the other side.
Which is better for business cards: raised ink or embossing?
Both processes can be used to make truly stunning raised designs in business cards. Embossing, however, will typically raise your text and patterns much more than raised ink printing, resulting in business cards that look more 3D. Embossed business cards also generally have a much more tactile feel, as the patterns tend are more raised and can be felt on both sides of the card. This can make them more compelling to hold and potentially more memorable than a similar raised ink business card. Embossing also requires no ink, making this process an excellent choice for truly minimalist business cards.
Due to the time and expertise needed to set up the dies, however, embossing a more involved process than raised ink printing. The embossing process also necessarily distorts your stock and therefore your design. The amount of distortion can vary based on the thickness and quality of your cardstock. This makes it important to work closely with your business card printing service to produce the best possible outcomes.
If you need to learn more about thermographic and embossed business cards or other custom letterpress business card options, be sure to contact us.
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