How to Become a Headstone Engraver

Engraving headstones is a career that helps loved ones gain closure.

Headstone engravers perform a very important function for their customers, putting designs into place that will adorn their loved ones' graves for centuries to come. Becoming a headstone engraver does not require any formal education; instead, you can gain all the expertise you need from on-the-job training working alongside an experienced engraver.

Instructions

1. Find a headstone engraver in your community who will show you how to use the engraving tools. Be willing to work for free or for low wages while you learn the craft, or be willing to take on other work for a funeral home while training.

2. Secure the tools you need once you feel comfortable branching out on your own, or join up with a partner or company looking for engravers. Tools include work gloves, a hood with a clear visor, knee guards, and a gas mask. You'll also need a sandblaster with an air compressor, but you may want to rent those if your practice is not yet big enough.

3. Market your practice with local funeral homes and undertakers. Many funeral homes outsource the engraving to contractors, and working in a recession-proof industry such as funeral services will make you a sought-after commodity if you develop a reputation for quality.

References

• "SA Career Focus"; Tombstone Engraver; September 2009
• Oakland North; Tombstone Engravers Carve Memories into Stone; Dara Kerr; May 2011