Abstract: A method of molding a cellulosic fiber containing board at a temperature of at least 525.degree. F. to provide a relatively high density skin on at least one surface. A fibrous composition, including cellulosic fibers, is consolidated to form a blank having a density of less than 35 pounds/cubic foot. The blank is then cut to a shape larger in at least two of its three dimensions than corresponding dimensions of a mold cavity when said mold is in a closed position. Urea is then included in at least a surface layer of fibers of the blank in an amount of at least 5% based on the dry weight of the fibers contacted with urea, and thereafter the cut blank is molded to form a contoured product having a skin on at least one surface thereof, the skin defined by a thickness of material on said surface of said product having a density greater than the material on which the skin is formed.

Abstract: A consolidated man-made board, such as hardboard, is "post-press" embossed with a contoured embossing plate at a pressure of at least about 1000 psi, at a temperature in the range of about 400.degree.-550.degree. F. and for a period of time sufficient to permanently re-shape the surface of the consolidated board.

Abstract: A consolidated man-made board, such as hardboard, is wetted on one surface with a chemical, such as ammonium hydroxide, and thereafter embossed with a contoured embossing plate at a pressure of at least about 1000 p.s.i., at a temperature in the range of about 400.degree.-550.degree. F. and for a period of time sufficient to permanently reshape the surface of the consolidated board. The use of chemical wetting agents including ammonium hydroxide, mineral acids including hydrochloric, sulfuric, nitric and phosphoric acids, oxalic acid, and metheneamine is disclosed.

Abstract: A consolidated man-made board, such as hardboard, is wetted on one surface and thereafter embossed with a contoured embossing plate at a pressure of at least about 1000 p.s.i., at a temperature in the range of about 400.degree.-550.degree. F. and for a period of time sufficient to permanently re-shape the surface of the consolidated board.