Hand Carved Memorials

A memorial, a commemoration of a person’s life, is the most challenging dedication to create. The words and design need to be precisely balanced; fashioning a stone which is strong, dignified and simple. It must be an eternal testimony, lasting for hundreds of years, while blending in with its surroundings from the moment of placement.

This process begins with initial consultations. It is vital to fully understand a client’s wishes and this can only be achieved by close collaboration. Memorials can be embellished with carvings ranging from a cross to a full coat of arms. As all memorial plaques created in the workshop are individual and cut by hand, almost any idea can be realized. A preliminary drawing will be offered and this will be redrafted until it entirely reflects the client’s vision. While advice and guidance can of course be offered, my aim is to craft a fitting and unique piece.

This piece will often take the form of a traditional headstone or cremation tablet. Sometimes, however, a particularly distinctive memorial is required. A wall plaque, a stone bench, an obelisk or monolith are all possible ways to remember, honour and celebrate a person’s life.

The type of stone to be used is selected not only according to appearance and texture, but to reflect and enhance the inscriptions in stone. Many ideal stones and slates are to be found within the British Isles, including Portland limestone, Welsh slate and York stone. Examples of these, and many more, are available at the workshop.