Embossing Folders - How do they work?

I'd like to expand my use of embossing, stamping and inking. I recently came across a post where someone had used an embossing folder. How do these work? Has anyone had any experiences with them, or have any tips to share?

They are plastic that has a positive and negative design the fits together when closed. You run it thru a machine to squeeze the paper to emboss. Sizzix, ebosser, Cuttlebug etc. I have seen a video where they used a rolling pin. Go to Youtube and find all kinds of tutorials.

I have about 40 embossing folders, so it's safe to say that I love them, lol! I make a ton of cards every month, and the embossing folders are a way of adding visual interest without adding bulk to the front of the cards.

I agree with chocolateaxel, They are fun to use. I love using Recollection paper (it has a white core) to emboss it and then sand it a bit and the white shows thru, showing off the emboss. Inking is another way to play whit them too.

Thanks everyone, I will have to look into what system to invest in. I love the look of dry embossing and agree its a way to add visual interest to cards especially.

if I were you I would definatley consider the BIG SHOT by Sizzix!!! I asked for this from my Mother last year for xmas and once I bought some embossing folders I realized how super easy it really was !!

Another vote for the big shot - it works with all embossing folders, sizzix dies, spellbinders, pretty much everything. And if you go to crops it doesn't need electricity - so you can actually use it.

I'm another crafter who likes to use embossing folders for my cards and layouts to add texture.

I have the Big Shot and Cuttlebug. I'm happy with both although I find that I reach for my Cuttlebug more often than my Big Shot largely due to size. The Cuttlebug is more compact and takes up less space.

Here's a layout where I used a polka dot embossing folder:
laugh By Sassiescrapper

I was trying to find examples in my gallery and apparently, I haven't been using them as often as I thought. And sadly, I never took photos of cards I made and gave away.

I recently purchased this camera embossing folder from SB.com so I'll have to find a way to use it.

Thanks for starting this thread. I didn't realize I've just been hoarding all my folders and not actually using them. LOL!

I misspoke on the paper to use in an embossing folder....CoreDinations is what I love...it has a lighter core and after embossing if you sand it lightly the embossing popps out.

Embossing folders are worth the money. If you have a Cuttlebug or the like buy one and try it out. I have quite a few Provo Craft embossing folders, a few Spell binder two sided folders. The two sided ones are pretty cool. I doubt you will be disappointed if you buy one or two.

Love my Big Shot! Like that it can do die cutting as well as embossing.

I got my Big Shot as a gift recently and am in love!! So simple and easy to use!