Abstract: The machine 10 may be used to emboss characters of embossed script, and comprises a paper support 12 and an escapement mechanism 20 from a typewriter. Embossable paper is fed from around a roller 22 to a position between an embossing stylus 14 and a resilient anvil 28. The stylus 14 is moved against the anvil to impress the paper, and moves in a horizontal plane to emboss characters in the paper. A coupling 18 comprising a pantograph mechanism causes the stylus 14 to follow with reduced amplitude, movement of a describing member 16. The describing member 16 is a ring in which the user's finger is placed. The finger is run over a fingerboard 34 to describe the desired character, which is embossed in the paper by the stylus 14. The fingerboard has grooves to guide the finger.After each character is completed, the escapement mechanism 20 is operated to move the paper support 12 to present a fresh area of the paper to the stylus.