How to Engrave on Cemetery Head Stones

Headstone engraving should be tasteful and decorative.

Headstone engraving is an important part of the burial process. The headstone is the page upon which the deceased's name and lifespan from birth to death are recorded in stone, along with an epitaph that summarizes the person's mindset or personality.



It is important that the engraving is done decoratively and professionally, because the headstone becomes an emblem of the deceased, as well as a memorial site for loved ones and friends. There are two main types of headstone-engraving techniques: sandblasting and etching.

Things You'll Need

• A headstone
• A sandblaster
• Design stencils
• An X-Acto knife
• A roomy outdoor workspace
• A brush
• Soapy warm water and a cloth

Instructions

1. Prop the headstone upright against a firm surface and make sure it is fully secure, not at risk of falling over or sliding. Make sure that its points of contact with whatever it is propped against are well cushioned with old cloth, foam or cardboard so it does not get marked or scuffed.

2. Stencil designs can be either hand-crafted or computerized. Visit local stone masons to find out whether they create bespoke stencil designs or carry out an Internet search for computerized stencil designs. An internet search will show the software that is available, with step-by-step instructions on how to create your own stencil design and print it onto vinyl sheets.

3. Attach the adhesive side of the stencil design onto the headstone, making sure that it is accurately centered. Using the X-Acto knife, carefully begin to etch out the design into the headstone. Be careful not to let the knife slip outside of the design, as it will scratch the surface of the stone.

4. When you have etched out the design with the X-Acto knife, take the sandblaster and point the nozzle at the area of the design you want to start carving first. Switch the sandblaster on, and work slowly and accurately, carving the design into the surface of the headstone, section by section.

5. When the sandblasting is complete, remove all remaining traces of the design stencil and brush over the whole headstone, removing the fine dust particles. Then wash over it with a cloth and some hot, soapy water.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a dust mask and goggles when using the sandblaster, because it raises a lot of dust and fine stone particles that can irritate your eyes and nostrils.

References

• Everlife Memorials: How Granite Headstones are Made
• Monuments of Distinction: Headstone Engraving