How to Engrave Monuments

This typical granite monument is ready for engraving.

A combination of sandblasting and hand carving produces permanent engravings on granite memorials. It is vital to follow the steps carefully because portions of the stone not properly covered can create unwanted sandblasted areas. Once the memorial is blasted it is literally "written in stone" and difficult--if not impossible--to fix. Care must be taken to confirm important details (name, date and specific graphics) are accurate before proceeding to the engraving stage. Monuments can be blasted with a wide variety of images, including floral patterns, praying hands, crosses, animals, angels and rosaries.

Things You'll Need

• Design software
• Stencil cutter/plotter
• Spray adhesive
• Knurled grip stencil knife
• Sandblast tank and abrasive
• Air compressor
• Dust mask
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Instructions

Engraving the Monument

1. Utilize the design software to create a rendering of the names, dates and graphics. Approve the final draft to ensure all information is valid. Clean the monument with a mild glass cleaner and make sure it is dry, dust free and ready for engraving.

2. Plot the design on a rubber stencil. Center the stencil on the polished side of the stone. Peel the protective film away from the stencil by lifting one corner and sticking this corner to the monument being careful not to move the stencil away from center. Remove backing while simultaneously pressing the stencil into the monument smoothing it to avoid bubbles in the stencil.

3. Pick the design (name, dates and graphics) out of the stencil using the stencil knife. Exposed portions of the monument will be engraved. Ensure the edges of the monument are properly covered by the stencil to prevent unwanted areas from sandblasting.

4. Position the stone within the sandblast booth level and perpendicular to the sandblasting nozzle. Adjust the pressure on the compressor to desired PSI (pounds per square inch). The best PSI for monuments is approximately 80 to 100. Open the blast tank to release sand.

5. Transport the stone back to the work area and remove the stencil. Highlight any areas that require additional contrast with lithichrome paint. This is the time to carve any areas for extra depth and definition if requested. Clean the monument with glass cleaner and it is ready for installation.

Tips & Warnings

• To add photographic images to a monument the best results are achieved either by laser etching or by purchasing a ceramic tile to be applied to the stone. The ceramics can be found in black and white or color.

• Wear protective gear at all times when sandblasting and make sure your work area is well ventilated when using the lithichrome paint.

References

• James Mullett; Memorialist; Edmonton, Alberta
• Derusha Supply: Monumental
• Lons Memorials: Granite Engraving

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish