Embossing is another treatment we can apply to the finished hard cover. The Sheridon Embosser is a huge machine that is comparable to a hydraulic press used in machine shops to bend metal. As in most of our cover treatment processes, heat and pressure are used to squeeze an image or texture onto the outside surface of the flat cover. At Friesens, this type of finishing is used mostly by our Yearbook Division. Schools will design an image or texture and we will order an Embossing Die that is particular to that cover. We also have several Stock Embossing Dies that our customers can choose from.
When a cover is ready for embossing the operator will generate a "Make-ready". The make-ready is made from a powder and liquid mixture that is applied to the Embossing Die and is allowed to cool and harden. The make-ready gives support to the underside of the cover as pressure is applied to the top by the Embossing Die. The resulting image is a three-dimensional effect of whatever is embossed on the cover.
