Tips For Choosing An Inscription For A Headstone

Deciding on the appropriate words for a memorial or headstone is often a challenging and sometimes stressful. I've been carving headstones for over 10 years, and I want to share some ideas to help you pick the right wording.

1.Keep it simple

A shorter inscription is always more likely to have greater impact than one that is long. Although you may have many items you would like to place on your headstone, it's always best to ask yourself whether you really require so much on the stone.

For example, there is no legal requirement that you include all names or dates. In certain cases just the first name can be more significant!

Keep it simple and you'll end up with an even stronger stone.

2. Avoid copying other people

There are a variety of templates to choose from if you look at the websites of the monumental masons. If you are able, stay clear of these and follow your own heart. You can choose your words and not follow the trends. There is for instance an inclination at present to start a stone by saying "in loving memory" similar to how in the past it may be "here lies". Check with yourself if you actually require or would like to start your inscription with these words.

3.It isn't just about the words

Be aware that a headstone's significance is not just about the words. It is important to consider the design, letterforms, shape, and possibly reverse carving. You might also be thinking about other senses like touch, and request a headstone that is rounded at the touch, or maybe a gilded sunken bowl that symbolizes eternity.

4.The material you choose will determine the type of inscription

Different headstone materials require different letters. This will have an effect on the length of the inscription. A limestone headstone, as an instance, needs bold, large letters. This means that the text will be smaller. If on Tombstones choose slate for your headstone, it will take lots of tiny italic characters and an extended inscription.

The first step is to decide which is most important: the material or the inscribed. Then, work from that.

5. The epitaph

You may not want an epitaph, however should you decide to have one, remember that there are many possibilities for its placement. It could be placed around the headstone, or on the side of the stone. It could have circular or circular or run around the edge. It doesn't necessarily have to be placed on the front. The reverse side of the stone can be used to create an epitaph with a lengthier design which doesn't take up too much space on the front.

6.Take your time.

Do not rush into choosing a headstone. I always advise waiting at least a year before thinking about the inscription.

If grief is raw what you say might not be the best choice. And, in the years to come you may regret the choice you made. The time between the year and the death allows feelings to settle and give you time to consider what is important to you.

Do not feel pressured to place a monument to the grave. It is not a matter of being considered a failure for your decision, and in the long time, when people see the gorgeous and thoughtful headstone you've chosen, they will see why you took so long. Some people are embarrassed and rushed to leave the marker on a grave that's only temporary. Remember that you are the one who loved them and you are the only one who can decide when the time is appropriate.

7.Look for inspiration

There are numerous pictures on the web of gorgeous headstones that can encourage you, and in addition visiting churchyards can be helpful.

Don't buy the first mason that you see. Have a look at different stone carvers and choose one who appeals to your heart. The ability to find someone who can help you and work with you is crucial and you should not feel rushed or hurried into making a decision.