With many different types of packaging available and customization options to help enhance the visual displays, it can be difficult to choose what sort of finishing touches to apply in order to better showcase the branding or logo. Fortunately, a method of adding depth and textures to logos, lettering, and images is available through two techniques: embossing and debossing. Embossing and debossing onto packaging are like two sides of the same coin, with a similar technique but different ways to implement it. Despite the differences, however, embossed/debossed packaging is sure to add appeal to the packaging options and make your design stand out!

Embossing vs. Debossing in Custom Packaging

What is Embossing?

Embossing is a technique that creates a raised design or pattern on packaging by pressing it with a die or stamp on the underside of the material. The embossed packaging contains the design that appears to sit higher than the surrounding surface, adding layers and a more three-dimensional look. Embossing is performed by creating a die with the desired material, which has a reverse pattern, placing the material between the raised die and a counter-die, and applying pressure, sometimes with heat.

What is Debossing?

Debossing is a printing technique that creates a recessed design by pressing a custom die into the packaging material. Where embossing creates a raised image on the surface, debossing produces an indentation or depression to give it depth and tactile quality. Debossed packaging can be left as is for a subtle effect, or it can be filled with foil or ink to enhance the design. Creating debossing is similar to embossing by creating a die and then applying heat and pressure to the material.

When to Choose Embossing vs. Debossing

With embossing raising an image on the surface of packaging and debossing causing an indentation, which technique would be best suited for packaging? To properly choose, consider the type of packaging and the design that is to be placed upon it. The embossing technique should be utilized for light-to-medium relief on logos and patterns where back-side impression is acceptable or hidden, such as with rigid boxes. The debossing technique is more typically used for darker materials or soft-touch wraps, especially to give a more shadowed definition without reverse-side pop.

Why Brands Choose These Finishes

Embossed and debossed finishing techniques on packaging offer many benefits to add more appeal to a brand. The techniques offer shelf differentiation and a premium feel, which gives the embossed/debossed packaging a higher perceived value and recall, showing more professionalism. The methods also highlight key brand elements without having to add ink coverage. Seeing as these are stamped into the packaging material, embossing and debossing provide durable marks that survive handling on premium paperboards and rigid boxes, preserving the logo despite transportation.

Substrates & Structures That Emboss Beautifully

Having the embossing method elevate designs on packaging to different visual levels, certain packaging and material options are better suited for this unique technique. The embossing method has limited use on multilayer film due to the finishing touch being applied to the underside. Many substrates and structures that best use the embossing method include:

Industries We Elevate with Embossed and Debossed Packaging

The ability to create visually stamped branding, logos, and designs assists with showcasing style for a variety of industries. Many businesses will use embossing and debossing to give a more professional look while elevating the packaging to display the contents. Several industries that are elevated through the use of embossed and debossed packaging include:

Contact PPD&G for Embossing and Debossing on Custom Packages

With an ability to work with a remarkable number of different materials, designs, and ideas, PPD&G is your go-to U.S. manufacturer of detailed and crafted packaging options. We offer sustainable and eco-friendly packaging to better give you what you need. Our commitment is to our customers; once we get a customer, we ensure they come back time and time again. Through unique and stylish packaging options, embossing and debossing are the extra steps to provide those finishing touches to elevate your brand or display! Contact us for more information about our embossing and debossing techniques for custom packaging, or request a quote for more specific details.