How to Inscribe Names on a Gravestone

Writing a gravestone epitaph for anyone who has died is never easy. The inscription you choose should reflect a deep and spiritual connection to the deceased. Many times people choose to write words that offer a deep reflection of feelings or thoughts about that person. You have a choice of many styles and variations of lettering and symbols to add to a gravestone. Some grieving families have an image of the loved one applied by laser on the gravestone.

Things You'll Need

• Gravestone
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Laser
• Images

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Design the layout of the gravestone. Write out all of the information that is to be placed on the marker, such as the full name, date of birth, date of death, any images or graphics that will appear. Ensure that the spelling is correct on all the lettering. Create the areas where each piece of information is to be listed. Double-check that the design meets the approval of the grieving person(s). Choose the lettering/stencil designs of the letters and numbers.

• 2

  Contact an engraver from a phone book or better yet, ask for a recommendation from the funeral service provider. Request an estimate on the work you need done and show them the design you created. You should make a special trip to the engraver's office to look at a sample or portfolio of their work.

• 3

  Specify to the engraver how you want the information to appear on the gravestone. They may be able to use a hammer and chisel method to apply the lettering and numbers, which will take a little longer than a laser method. This can add a real classical look and feel to the gravestone. It could also add to the price of the gravestone considering the extra amount of time needed to complete the task. This will be determined by the amount of letters and numbers needed to be placed on the stone.

• 4

  Using a laser guided method will save time and money with the technology available to make the gravestone. Again, specify directly to the engraver what your exact needs are and the direct areas you want the wording and images placed. If you change your mind once the engraver begins, he cannot start over unless you are willing to pay for another piece of stone piece. Once the work is completed, complete the final payment to the engraver and wait for delivery of the final product.