Embossing is the process of raising an image or text on a chosen substrate resulting in a tactile and luxurious finish.

Embossed areas can either register with printed or foiled elements of a design making them physically stand out, or be ‘blind’ meaning that the emboss stands alone. Both finishes are highly impactful and add a deluxe finish to business cards and stationery, book covers, greeting cards, labels and luxury packaging.

‘Single-Level’ Embossing

A ‘single-level’ embossing die raises the image above the stock level to a fixed height throughout.

Tomlinson’s manufacture single-level embossing dies in both magnesium and brass. A magnesium die is a cost-effective solution and ideal for shorter runs due to the metal’s softer properties. Brass is the recommended material for longer press runs and heavier substrates due to the metal's hardness and durability.

‘Multi-Level’ Embossing

A ‘multi-level’ embossing die raises the image above the stock level to multiple heights adding a three-dimensional, sculptured look that incorporates lifelike features. Embossed areas can be rounded, bevelled, faceted and shaped according to each individual design’s characteristics.

Tomlinson’s manufacture all multi-level embossing dies in brass. Using the latest CAD-CAM software, an embossed design is carefully interpreted and programmed by our skilled and experienced team of programmers. A bespoke die is then CNC-cut here in our in-house machine shop.

Counterforces

All Tomlinson’s Embossing Dies come with a Counterforce.

Our Resin Counterforces consist of a robust glass-reinforced epoxy board onto which a tough, heat-resistant polyurethane polymer is cast to create a mirror-image of the die.

Resin counterforces can be manufactured with a base thicknesses of 0.4mm, 0.6mm and 0.8mm.

Learn more about our counterforces here and to see examples of embossed finishes achieved using Tomlinson’s expert dies, simply visit our gallery.

Magnesium Size and Gauge Guide

Tomlinson Ltd can produce magnesium Single-Level Embossing Dies in a range of thicknesses and sizes to suit your needs.

Standard Gauges: 1.63mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6.35mm and 7mm

Maximum plate size: 610 x 914mm

Brass Size and Gauge Guide

Tomlinson Ltd can produce brass Single-Level and Multi-Level Embossing Dies in a range of thicknesses and sizes to suit your needs.

Standard Gauges: 4mm, 5mm, 6.35mm and 7mm, however brass dies can also be machined to other bespoke thicknesses so please just let us know your needs at the time of ordering.

Maximum Plate Size: 730mm x 510mm

Single Level Embossing raises the image above the stock level up to a fixed height. The dies are easily produced by either CNC machining or chemically etching.

Brass dies are the most durable of all and as such are used for the longest production runs. In addition to single-level designs, multi-level emboss options create sculptured effects that emphasise areas of an image. Our experienced team mix traditional techniques with the latest technology to create realistic impressions and illusions of three-dimensional images.