Buyer guide · Finishing
Should packaging use embossing or debossing?
Embossing raises the design and debossing presses it inward; select from artwork, material thickness, reverse-side appearance, packing and handling needs.
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Checklist
Finish details to put in the specification
- Relief geometry
- Weight and caliper
- Dieline geometry
- Tolerance stack-up
- Target quantity and SKU allocation
- Approval sample and decision owner
- Required date and Mainland China delivery point
- Change and repeat-order record
Process evaluation
Four controls behind a repeatable finish
Relief geometry
Define height or depth, edge sharpness, backing marks, paper stretch and alignment with print or foil.
Weight and caliper
Check both basis weight and measured thickness because papers with the same gsm can differ in bulk, stiffness and converting behaviour.
Dieline geometry
Verify cut, crease, glue, bleed, safe area, window and finishing layers against the approved physical structure.
Tolerance stack-up
Review how material, printing, die cutting, gluing and packed-product variation combine at final assembly.
Execution method
Four actions from RFQ to production
Mark a separate finish layer
Use named vector layers for foil, varnish, emboss, cut and other process areas.
Approve on the real substrate
Colour, gloss, relief and adhesion must be checked on the intended material.
Set visible tolerances
Define registration, edges, pinholes, scratches, wrinkles and acceptable variation.
Retain production references
Keep approved samples, process settings and supplier references for repeat orders.
FAQ
Questions buyers often ask
Should packaging use embossing or debossing?
Embossing raises the design and debossing presses it inward; select from artwork, material thickness, reverse-side appearance, packing and handling needs.
What should be written in the specification?
At minimum, define Relief geometry, Weight and caliper, Dieline geometry, Tolerance stack-up, then link quantity, sample, timing, inspection and the approved revision.
Is a physical sample needed?
A decision involving structure, material, colour, finish, assembly or use performance normally needs a physical sample matched to that question; a screen proof cannot approve everything.
Can the previous standard be reused for a repeat order?
Reuse a controlled standard only when files, material, structure, supply chain and use conditions remain unchanged. Record every change and decide whether resampling or reapproval is required.
Continue building the procurement specification