Foil stamping, typically a commercial print process, is the application of pigment or metallic foil, a special film-backed material, to paper where a heated die is stamped onto the foil, making it adhere to the surface leaving the design of the die on the paper. Foil stamping can be combined with embossing to create a more striking 3D image.

Embossing is the process of creating a tom three-dimensional image or design in paper and other ductile materials. It is typically accomplished with a combination of heat and pressure on the paper. This is achieved by using a metal die (female) usually made of brass and a counter die (male) that fit together and actually squeeze the fibers of the substrate. This pressure and a combination of heat actually “irons” while raising the level of the image higher than the substrate to make it smooth. In printing this is accomplished on a letterpress. The most common machines are the Kluge Letterpress and the Heidelberg Letterpress.

Rubber stamp embossing is another form of embossing popular in scrapbooking and cardmaking. A rubber stamp is used to apply adhesive to paper in a desired pattern. Embossing powder is dusted onto the paper and then blown away, so that it adheres only to the stamped surface. The powder is then subjected to heat, which causes it to melt and cover the stamped area. When the heat is removed, the liquified powder fuses into a palpable smooth raised surface in the shape of the stamped pattern.

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