Abstract: A process for embossing a thermoplastic polymeric material by selective expansion which comprises forming into sheet form an expandable mix containing a thermoplastic polymeric material and a chemical blowing agent, applying to selected areas of the surface of the sheet an activator ink composition in the form of a plastisol or organosol containing a vinyl resin, a plasticizer for the vinyl resin, and a kicker for the chemical blowing agent in the expandable mix, and heating the sheet to a temperature and for a time such that in those areas of the sheet in contact with the kicker-containing activator ink composition, the chemical blowing agent is decomposed to a greater degree than in the remaining areas and the sheet is thereby differentially selectively expanded.