Let’s play around with a debossing technique using dies! It’s a fun and simple way to use metal dies to deboss or create an imprint on cardstock or foil paper. And I have three different ways you can use this technique in your card making.
The cards feature the Changing Leaves Bundle from Stampin’ Up! This is a NEW online exclusive launching in July 2024. However, keep in mind you can use any supplies you have on hand with this technique.
Debossing Technique
First let’s talk about how to use dies for this debossing technique. Typically, when you use an embossing folder, you end up with two different types of texture. One side is embossed which means it leaves a raised texture or design on the cardstock. When you flip over an embossed piece of card stock, you will find the debossed side. The debossed side is indented or pressed into the cardstock.
We are able to achieve this debossing effect using metal dies as well. Simply lay the die on a piece of cardstock with the cutting side up (or away from the cardstock) and run it through your embossing machine. The die will leave an imprint in the cardstock.
Now that you know how to use dies to deboss cardstock, there are 3 different ways to use it in your card making. The first way is to use it to create a subtle background for your card just like you would use a regular embossing folder. The second way to use this technique is to create the subtle background and then do a bit of ink blending to make the debossed images more pronounced.
The third way to use this technique in card making is to deboss a focal point for your card. The debossed leaves on a 3 x 4 inch piece of gold foil paper makes a fabulous focal point for this card!
Tutorial and Supplies
Now you have 3 different ways you can use the debossing technique in your card making. For a complete list of supplies and instructions, feel free to download the printable tutorial.
I hope you enjoyed these card ideas and are inspired to give this technique a try! Remember, you can use any dies you have on hand with this technique! Be sure to watch the video for some tips and to see the technique in action! Have a fun and creative day my friends! ~ Lynn
idea very much appreciated
Super! Have fun with this technique!
These cards are Beautiful!
Thanks so much!
Thank you, Lynn, for showing us how to do this. I’m fairly new to Stampin Up and cardmaking. Getting more bang for my buck is delightful!
You are very welcome Elaine. Have fun with this technique!
While this looks wonderful and seems an ingenious way to use your metal dies, it always “feels” like this will harm your metal dies. But I suppose because it’s usually the “wrong” way to use it? That’s probably all it is…haha!…just a feeling.
Haha! I understand your concern, but you are merely flipping the dies over and running them through the embossing machine. I even added an extra piece of cardstock on top of the die so I could cut and emboss at the same time 🙂 Give it a try!