The type of material used can affect the embossed outcome. In general, the best result of embossing is when you use materials that are neither too thick nor too thin. In terms of paper-based packaging, there are three types of materials we use:
- Cardstock (300-400gsm): for products such as folding carton boxes.
- Corrugated materials: for products such as mailer boxes.
- Chipboard (1000gsm+) and the substrate (157gsm): for products such as rigid boxes.
Embossing on Cardstock
The 300-400gsm cardstock material is the perfect example of a material that is not too thick nor too thin. These materials allow embossed designs to have a nice visual and tactile effect.
Products that use 300-400gsm cardstock material include folding carton boxes, display boxes, packaging sleeves, tray and sleeve boxes, foldable lid & base boxes, and pillow boxes.
Embossing on Corrugated Materials
Our packaging, including mailer boxes, is printed with offset printers. Mailer boxes comprise two materials: the corrugated board and the substrate layer. All print is done directly on the substrate first, then glued to the corrugated board.
Because corrugated materials include a wavy layer of cardboard and aren't a flat surface, it won't be possible to have a clean or consistent embossing effect. For embossing or debossing to be added to corrugated packaging like a mailer box, it's only possible on the outer substrate. However, because this substrate is thin, the outcome of embossing won't be as prominent. In addition, gluing the substrate to the corrugated board would press the embossed designs down even more. You might still be able to feel the raised effect, but it will be very subtle.
Therefore, we recommend avoiding embossing and debossing for corrugated packaging. If you'd like additional enhancements to your corrugated boxes, consider adding spot UV or foil stamping instead.