Dry embossing with Embossing Folders is one of my favorite techniques. It adds dimension and texture without adding much cost or height (for mailing!) Here are some techniques using embossing folders to keep it fresh every time you make a new project:
1. Embossed Background
Photo from: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1870225?&cat=18571
Photo from: http://ourlittleinspirations.blogspot.com/2012/05/perfect-sentiments-blog-hop-cards.html
2. Distressed Embossed Background
Use a sanding block, sandpaper, or even an emery board to distress the embossed (raised) areas. The core is a different color with some brands of cardstock which creates another look.
Photo from: http://www.coredinations.com/index.php/2012/10/09/stampendous-day-two/
Photo from: http://stampinbythesea.com/simple-window-card
Photo from: http://www.stampinconnection.com/photo/033-001?context=latest
3. Distressed Embossed Background
Use chalks, chalking ink, distressing ink or dye-based ink
Photo from: http://kimchaltry.blogspot.co.nz/2011/02/vintage-hearts.html
Photo from: http://www.amazingpapergrace.com/argyle-baby/
4. Embossing As A Focal Point
Photo from: http://valitasfreshfolds.blogspot.com/2011/09/wedding-dressed.html
Photo from: http://www.stampinconnection.com/photo/an-autumn-thank-you-1?context=latest
Photo from: http://mamadinis.blogspot.com/2012/09/impression-obsession-all-about-dies-day_28.html
5. All Of The Above
Dry embossed, sanded, inked with color, inked with VersaMark & heat embossed with gold!
Photo from: http://prettyimpact.com/2012/09/27/rustic-inspiration/
6. Faux Letterpress
Ink the raised side of an embossing folder and press ink into debossed (or recessed) areas.
Photo from: http://kimberly-crawford.blogspot.com/2012/03/time-layout.html
7. Reverse Faux Letterpress
Ink the flat side of an embossing folder creating color in the “background” of an embossed image.
Photo from: http://narrowroadstamping.blogspot.com/2010/11/fun-with-punch-potpourri-hostess-set.html
8. Different Textures
Photo from: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1230516
9. Same Texture, Different Colors
Photo from: http://weeinklings.blogspot.com/2010/10/color-throwdown-114.html