When it comes to leather (and leather-like) items, embossing and debossing are the decoration methods of choice, creating a subtle, classy imprint that doesn’t mar the look and feel of the high-end material. Embossing works by stamping the material with a metal-engraved die to create a raised image on fabric, using a combination of time and temperature to ensure the logo doesn’t fade or wash away. Similarly, with debossing a cut dye is pressed into the surface of fabric to create an imprint. The difference with a debossed image is that it’s sunk into the surface, whereas the embossed design stands out.

Get Creative With Embossing/Debossing

1. Add Some Shine: A great way to give your debossed designs some extra pop is to stamp them with foil. The metallic material adds contrast and visual interest without lowering the perceived value.

2. Look Beyond Leather: Though leather and embossing tend to go hand in hand, it’s not the only substrate that works for the technique. Consider fleece, polar fleece or even denim when you’re looking to add a dimensional logo or design.

3. Mix Your Media: A garment can be screen printed, and then that image debossed to create a unique look that rivals what’s available at retail.

Embossing on a Dime

The emboss/deboss process can be costly, so consider this economical alternative instead. Try using puff screen print to get a faux embossed effect on a sweatshirt to mimic the textural, tone-on-tone look that’s been popular with designer labels like Tommy Hilfiger and Versace. Just be sure to make your puff ink as close to the color of the garment as possible. A suede puff additive will create a fabric feel to match the original garment’s hand. Get a tutorial on this decorating hack in this video by Bella + Canvas (asi/39590), featuring Eagle Promotions (asi/185320):