Embossed Catalogues
Embossed catalogues feature raised, three-dimensional elements on the cover created by pressing the card stock between custom metal dies. This transforms flat printed surfaces into tactile, sculptural designs that catch both light and attention. Embossing adds a physical dimension to your catalogue that no other finishing technique can replicate — it literally lifts your brand off the page.
At Perklets Print, we produce embossed catalogues using precision-engineered brass dies that create crisp, detailed raised surfaces. We offer both blind embossing (raised texture without ink, relying on shadow and light) and printed embossing (raised elements combined with full-colour printing or foil). The depth of the emboss can be adjusted from a subtle, refined relief to a deep, dramatic sculptural effect.
Embossed catalogues are the choice of brands that demand the very highest standard of printed materials — luxury fashion, jewellery, automotive, premium hospitality, and high-end real estate. The three-dimensional cover creates an immediate impression of craftsmanship and exclusivity. Combined with soft touch lamination, foil stamping, or spot UV, embossed catalogues represent the pinnacle of commercial printing quality.
Product Specifications
Summary Options
Design Guidelines
Supply two files: (1) the full-colour cover artwork and (2) a separate emboss mask file — greyscale values indicate emboss depth (white = no emboss, black = maximum depth). Both files must have identical dimensions.
- Bleed area: 3mm bleed on all sides for the cover artwork. Emboss mask must match cover dimensions exactly.
- Crop area: A4 catalogue cover: 210 x 297 mm (saddle stitched) or full wrap including spine (perfect bound).
- Safe area: Keep embossed elements at least 5mm from trim edges and fold lines. Fine text below 10pt and very thin lines may not emboss clearly. Bold, solid shapes deliver the strongest emboss effect.
Accepted formats: PDF (preferred), AI, EPS — emboss mask must be a separate vector file
Quantity
FAQs: Embossed Catalogues
What is embossing on a catalogue?
Embossing creates raised, three-dimensional elements on the catalogue cover by pressing the card between custom metal dies. This adds a tactile, sculptural quality that transforms the cover from flat to dimensional, creating an immediate impression of premium craftsmanship.
What is the difference between blind embossing and printed embossing?
Blind embossing creates a raised texture without any ink — the effect relies on shadow and light to reveal the design. Printed embossing combines the raised effect with full-colour printing or foil, creating a multi-layered visual and tactile impact.
Can embossing be combined with other finishes?
Yes, embossing pairs beautifully with foil stamping (foil + emboss is a classic luxury combination), spot UV, and soft touch lamination. Combining multiple premium finishes creates an exceptionally high-end catalogue cover.
How detailed can the embossing be?
Embossing reproduces detail well, but works best with bold, solid elements. Logos, large text, geometric patterns, and simple illustrations emboss beautifully. Very fine lines, small text, and complex gradients may not translate effectively.
Is there a minimum order for embossed catalogues?
Embossing requires custom brass dies, which represent a one-time setup cost. We recommend a minimum of 50 catalogues to justify the die cost, though smaller quantities are possible. The dies are retained for reorders at no additional charge.