Pitcher Perfect: 3D Embossing Techniques with a Twist!

Last Updated: July 1, 2025

Have you looked at your crafting supplies, unsure how to make your ideas come to life? Or maybe you’ve been searching for a way to add more depth and intention to your handmade cards, without spending hours or needing dozens of products. This is where 3D embossing techniques can gently push you forward and help you fall in love with the process all over again.

If you haven’t seen or heard about the new Pitcher Vases 3D Embossing Folder and Die Set, then you’re in for a treat! Let’s talk about one of the most exciting and beginner-friendly ways to do just that: emboss and cut!

A handmade greeting card with paper flowers, a pink pitcher vase die-cut, and the sentiment "hello"

Embossing Techniques for Crafters On the Go 

The Pitcher Vases 3D Embossing Folder & Die Set offers a fresh twist on classic embossing. It's not just a new embossing tool—it’s a skill-building opportunity disguised as a crafting set. What makes it special is how it pairs embossing with perfectly aligned die-cutting, making it easy to create cards that look intricate, but come together effortlessly.

There are so many reasons to love this 2-in-1 set! These thoughtful little design choices help take the guesswork and stress out of crafting. Let’s check them out!

  • The 2.88" x 5.75" 3D embossing folder adds beautifully sculpted texture to your cardstock and allows you to use a smaller die-cutting machine. No more hauling around those huge and clunky die-cutting machines whenever you’re in the mood to do some crafting while on vacation.
  • The coordinating die set cuts out the two pitcher vases—one modern, one ornate. This will add an extra dimension to your handmade projects.
  • We’ve added a “slot” feature built into the die-cut vases, so you can “tuck in” flowers without adhesives.
  • To make everything easier, there’s an add-on simple coloring stencil that lets you color the vases with just a blending brush and your favorite dye ink.
An introduction video featuring Altenew's Pitcher Vases 3D Embossing Folder

Why emboss and cut work so well?

We’ve all been there. You’ve spent too long lining things up perfectly, struggled to add dimension without too many foam tapes, or wished you had more time, more inspiration, or just the right tools. Or you simply want to emboss and die-cut on the go! Well, guess what? This emboss and cut bundle addresses many of those challenges!

  • It’s intuitive! No fancy techniques needed to get a layered look.
  • It saves time. The slot-in feature means less gluing and more creating.
  • It encourages play! Mix and match your florals, test new color combos, and try stenciling—even if you’re short on time.
  • Pair it with a portable die-cutting machine and you’ve got yourself a travel-friendly crafting kit!

Why 3D Embossing Folders Are a Game-Changer

Embossing folders add texture, but 3D embossing folders bring life to your paper. These folders are engineered to press varying depths into the cardstock, creating highlights and shadows that make your design feel almost sculpted. 

What is the difference between embossing folders and 3D embossing folders?

Regular or 2D embossing folders create a uniform raised pattern. 3D embossing folders add multi-level textures, delivering more realistic results that mimic hand-carved surfaces.

Pro Tip: Use heavyweight cardstock (like Altenew’s Classic Crest Solar White) for best results.
Clean and simple handmade greeting card featuring a 3D embossed dark green pitcher vase with a yellow flower and some leaves tucked in, and the sentiment "just because"

Standard Embossing Folder vs. 3D Embossing Folder

Feature Standard Embossing Folder 3D Embossing Folder

Texture Depth

One level

Multi-level

Realism

Subtle

Highly dimensional

Paper Compatibility

Lighter weight

Works best with 80-110 lb cardstock

Creative 3D Embossing Techniques to Try with the Pitcher Vases

If you’re looking for a quick and easy handmade card idea that looks like it was made by a pro, then you’re in luck! There are so many easy and impactful ways to stretch your Pitcher Vases 3D Embossing Folder and Die Set. From clean and simple to bold and fabulous—here are a few embossing and die-cutting techniques you can try!

A beautiful handmade card idea for motivating someone, featuring a blue pitcher vase with some foliage and branches tucked in in, and the sentiment "you're simply the best"

1. Tuck-in Florals, No Glue Needed

Create a paper flower bouquet by sliding flowers into the built-in slot on your vase. Try layering with die-cut leaves or branches for a seasonal flair. 

2. Add Subtle Shine

Use alcohol markers or shimmer pastes on the raised embossed areas. A touch of metallic markers on the handle gives your pitcher a ceramic or antique finish without any mess. Try swiping some metallic inks onto the raised areas before embossing for that “wow” effect!

3. Stencil for Soft Shading

The simple coloring stencil (sold separately) helps you add colors to your vases quickly and neatly. You don’t need to be a coloring pro—just a blending brush and some dye inks will do the trick. That’s why this set is so perfect for quick and easy crafting on the go!

Clean and simple handmade greeting card with 2 pitcher vases, one red and one light blue, a subtle yellow stenciled design in the background, and the sentiment "hugs"

4. Elevated Simplicity

Emboss a white panel, die-cut a vase, and add a single tucked-in flower stem. It's minimal. It's peaceful. And it’s stunning. You can also opt out of adding the paper flower and let the ornate vase’s beauty shine on its own.

Pro Tip: Lightly mist your cardstock before embossing—it softens the fibers and reduces cracking for even more detailed results.
Beautiful handmade greeting card idea with 3D embossed vases on a dark green card panel, a yellow pitcher vase die-cut with some branches and leaves tucked in it, and the sentiments "just because" and "I believe in you"

5. Mix and Match Moments

Use other vase designs in your stash! Emboss the lovely vases in the Craft Your Life Project Kit: Magnificent Magnolias onto an ink-blended panel, die-cut a pitcher vase out of bright colored cardstock, tuck in some paper flowers, branches, or foliage, add your sentiment, and you’re good to go!

What’s beautiful about this set is that you don’t need to be a pro to get “pro-level” results. And if you are a seasoned crafter, it offers something refreshingly different. What more could you ask for? 

Explore Creative Embossing Techniques with This 2-in-1 Set!

Embossing techniques don’t need to feel intimidating or complicated. Sometimes, the right tool—like the Pitcher Vases bundle—can unlock ideas you didn’t know you had. Whether you're trying to rediscover your spark or you're just looking for a calming craft session that doesn’t require a lot of cleanup, this set gives you the space and freedom to create.

Explore more inspiring embossing folder ideas In the Craft Room, and remember—every new project is a chance to try something new, even if it’s just a little twist.

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