Cemetery Lettering & Engraving with Memory Stones

Cemetery Lettering & Engraving with Memory Stones

At Memory Stones, we understand how meaningful each word carved into a headstone is. Whether it’s adding a loved one’s name, a date, or a phrase, every detail matters. Our goal is to ensure that new lettering blends seamlessly with the existing engraving, so the memorial remains timeless and cohesive.


How the Cemetery Lettering Process Works

When you reach out to Memory Stones for additional lettering, we begin by gathering the exact details of what needs to be added. One of our specialists then visits the memorial to take precise measurements and make a “rubbing” of the existing engraving. This rubbing captures the font, size, spacing, and depth of the original lettering, allowing us to ensure a perfect match.

From there, we create a digital design using advanced CAD (computer-aided design) software. This draft is shared with you so you can review and approve the layout before we move forward. Once approved, the design is transferred onto a rubber stencil. The stencil acts as a guide during engraving, ensuring every letter and number is positioned with accuracy.

Back at the gravesite, our team applies the stencil to the stone and carefully reviews the placement. The engraving itself is done with a sandblasting process, cutting into the stone at a depth that matches the original lettering. After engraving, each character is closely inspected for uniformity. If needed, we perform touch-ups such as hand-chiseling or paint-matching to achieve an exact finish. Finally, the stencil is removed and the memorial is carefully cleaned, leaving behind a beautiful, lasting addition.


The Best Time of Year for Engraving

Because engraving is done outdoors, weather plays an important role. Our equipment and materials work best in mild, dry conditions, typically when the temperature is above 50°F. For this reason, our engraving season usually runs from early spring (late March) through mid-December. Severe winter conditions, such as heavy snow or freezing temperatures, may shorten the season. Whenever possible, we recommend scheduling engraving during the milder months to ensure the smoothest process.


Do Headstones Need to Be Removed?

Not at all. At Memory Stones, all of our work is completed on-site. Our equipment is fully portable, allowing us to reach headstones even if they are located far from the road. This ensures that the stone remains undisturbed and that your loved one’s resting place is treated with the utmost respect.


Font Styles & Lettering Options

With today’s monument design technology, we are able to match virtually any font. This allows us to replicate the original style so the new engraving blends seamlessly with the old.

In some cases—especially with older memorials originally carved by hand—we may use traditional chiseling techniques to replicate the look. Freshly chiseled letters can appear brighter at first, but over time, they naturally weather and blend in with the original engraving.


Preserving Memories with Care

Every engraving we complete at Memory Stones is done with precision and respect, because we know these details are more than words—they are lasting tributes to loved ones.