Leather can be embossed in two different ways, by plate or by roller.
Plate embossing is when a design, decoration, lettering or pattern is imprinted on a leather’s surface using a metal plate. Embossing achieves a raised effect while debossing results in an indented effect.
Plate embossings work best on firm-handed leather collections that will not pull out such as Barrington and Absolute as well as Satin Suede, Dauphine and Cottswald. However, keep in mind that suedes and nubucks will lose much of their signature softness and will become more firm when embossed.
The majority of our embossings are plate embossings made with metal plates that are 26 inches by 54 inches. Since the average plate size is smaller than most of our upholstery leathers, there will be plate lines on embossed hides. Depending on the individual pattern or design, these plate lines sometimes will be more visible. Additionally, because of plate limitations, certain patterns and designs are only available on half hides.
If the leather is standard run, the minimum for embossings is one hide or two half hides if the pattern is only available on half hides. Average lead times for embossed orders is three weeks if the base leather is in stock.
ROLLER EMBOSSING is when a design, decoration or pattern is imprinted on a leather’s surface using a metal roller.
A roller embossing will not leave plate lines however, most roller plates used to imprint decorative patterns onto leather are smaller than most of the average hide size in our collections. Most vary in size from 48 to 60 inches. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with one of our customer care representatives regarding yields. The average roller varies in size.
Additionally, most decorative embossing rollers make lighter impressions on the leather’s surface than plates. As a result, we only recommend and sample decorative roller embossings on Satin Suede, Dauphine and Cottswald since roller embossings are most visible on these collections.
To view our collection of embossed leathers, click here.