Embossing Folders or Cut and Emboss Folders - which is right for you?

If you're looking to make an impression with your cardmaking projects, embossing folders are the ideal trick to keep up your sleeve! But, with so many different effects and techniques on offer, choosing that perfect final flourish can prove tricky.

So we thought why not go back to the beginning and take an in-depth look the differences between Embossing Folders and Cut and Emboss Folders and show some of the ways you can create stunning depth and dimension.

Cut & Emboss Folders

The clue is in the name when it comes to the first main difference. Cut & Emboss Folders include an added die in the folder to create a cut-out feature. Compatible with most die-cutting machines, these folders are an amazing time saver. There's no need for craft knives, just roll it through your machine and let the folder do all the work for you! The fun-filled design you can see here uses the Candy Cane Cut & Emboss Folder to create the perfect frame for a stunning shaker card that will sprinkle joy wherever it goes.

These clever little folders are a great to bring your card-making projects to life by combining 3D features. This card uses the Open Window Cut & Emboss Folder to emboss a brick wall background with a sweet die-cut open window in the centre - the perfect way to throw open the doors and welcome a friend or family member into their new pad!

Cut & Emboss folders come in all shapes and sizes and this knock-out of a card is sure to have everyone seeing stars! Here, the Shine Bright folder's die-cut star shapes and stellar embossed background have been perfectly picked out in bold and bright colours to create a card that really packs a punch!

Embossing Folders

Embossing folders are a great and surprisingly simple way to create the perfect backdrop for your design, adding dramatic dimension and intricate detail with just a quick roll through your die-cutting machine. This subtle beauty has used a shimmering palette of pastel colours to pick out the stunning criss-cross design of the Sara Signature Rose Garden Rose Trellis folder.

If you're keen to add even more depth and dimension to your embossing folder design, why not pick up an inkpad and brush and let your creativity take over! Here the Crafty Friends Embossing Folder has been layered above contrasting card and highlighted with clever colouring to make a real statement.

Embossing Folders aren't restricted to the background and this glittering creation certainly doesn't shy away from the limelight! The Confetti Burst Embossing Folder, from the Sara Signature Rose Gold collection pops from the centre of this card with its 3D details highlighted in shimmering gold tones.

Whether you choose Embossing Folders or Cut and Emboss Folders - or decide to try both, we'd love to see your creations on Facebook UK, Facebook USA,  Twitter, Instagram UK, Instagram US, Pinterest UK or Pinterest US using the hashtag #crafterscompanion.