Digital embossing of decorative surface coverings

A method for producing a decorative surface covering, the decorative surface covering comprising flooring or wallcovering, the method comprising:

• providing a structural core, including one or more core layers, the structural core comprising a printable surface;
• digitally printing a décor layer onto the printable surface of the structural core, the décor layer representing a two-dimensional décor
• applying a transparent or at least translucent spacer layer against the décor layer,
• after digital printing of the digitally printing of the décor layer, the spacer layer having a thickness of at least 0.1 mm;
• generating a three-dimensional surface relief by digitally embossing, in register with the two-dimensional décor, wherein the three-dimensional surface relief is generated at a distance of at least 0.1 mm from the décor layer by maintaining the thickness of the spacer layer unmodified by the digital embossing,
• wherein the three-dimensional surface relief is generated in one or more coating layers on a side of the spacer layer facing away from the décor layer after application of the spacer layer against the décor layer;
• wherein the digital embossing includes:
• applying a coating layer on the side of the spacer layer facing away from the décor layer,
• applying an inhibiting agent in a pattern onto, into or below the coating layer by digital printing,
• solidifying the coating layer, the inhibiting agent inhibiting the solidification in said pattern, and
• removing unsolidified parts of the coating layer.