Embossing lends an elegant touch to everyday paper crafts.
There are a variety of crafts for an embossing machine that allow you to create unusual, signature pieces of artwork. Embossing machines come in several varieties. There are multi-tasking embossers available at craft and scrapbooking stores that allow you to embellish and cut card stock and paper pieces into a variety of different designs in a single motion. You can also use embossing machines that feature custom-made thick rubber dyes secured with hand-held or desk-mounted metal handles. These machines allow you to create personal monogrammed or logoed designs with a raised surface, and they can be ordered through office and business supply stores.
Customized Paper Tiles
Make your own texturized decoupage projects by crafting miniature embossed paper tiles. Take the paper of your choice and emboss a fleur-du-lis and elaborate border on each. Secure tiles to paper mache or wooden craft box with a decoupage glue. After drying, apply an antiquing glaze to create the look of an old tin box. You can use this same technique to make unique gift and candy boxes.
Personalized Letterhead or Stationary
Send highly personalized pieces of correspondence or upscale invitations with embossed stationary and letterhead. Create a look of simple elegance using only parchment papers with a raised monogrammed seal or create an antique finish by embossing only the edges of card stock or envelope flaps with a raised scalloped or lace design.
Gift Wrap
Take a roll of craft paper and emboss any variety of designs on the surface to create an unusual, texturized gift wrap. This same technique can be used to make gift tags, gift bags, calling cards and name plates for formal dinners.
Artwork
Cut heavy parchment paper into squares and rectangles of varying sizes. Emboss each sheet with abstract designs and then use watercolor paints to lightly color the surface of each. For an eclectic look, use a damp sponge to blot off sections of paint before it dries. Overlapping paint colors will create a "tie-dye" look. When dry, secure the embossed and painted parchment pieces with craft glue in an abstract design on a white canvas board. When dry, use as a wall hanging or frame for a more polished look.
Embossed Book Markers
Create elaborate and unusual embossed book markers by embossing card stock or thick parchment paper. You can use symbols, literary phrases or even your own custom crest or seal. Decorate with craft paint or leave plain. Finish the book marker with a ribbon threaded through a hole punched in the top center section of the marker.
