How to order a headstone

How to order a headstone

The process of ordering a memorial begins with an informal meeting, usually at my workshop. It is possible to work with you by e-mail and telephone if meeting in person is not possible, and I can also come to you for the initial meeting if necessary.

At the meeting I will show you a portfolio of my work and samples of the stones that I use. We will have a general discussion in which I take some notes on your preferences and requirements. There is no obligation at this stage and if you decide not to proceed with the commission there is no charge for the meeting.
 
After the meeting I will send you an e-mail giving you a rough idea of what the memorial might cost. If you are happy to proceed, I will ask for a deposit and work up a design for your approval. This is a detailed scale drawing showing exactly how the completed stone will look. As I work in a very collaborative way with clients, I am quite happy to make alterations to the design until you are completely happy with it.

Sketch for Welsh slate headstone

The completed Welsh slate headstone

Once the design is finalised, I will provide you with a total price for the project and give you a rough guide of the expected timescale.

The local authority or church body responsible for the burial ground has to approve the planned memorial. It will also make a charge for permission to put up the memorial. I will complete an application form for permission to erect the memorial and send it to the relevant authority on your behalf. When the design is approved, I will order the stone from the quarry. It normally takes around six weeks for the stone to arrive at my workshop.

 
When I have the stone I will carry out all carving and lettering as agreed with you. I will keep you informed of progress as the work goes on. You are also welcome to visit me in the workshop during the process. As the project progresses I will be able to give you a more accurate indication of the expected completion date.

Image of a wren drawn onto a sandstone headstone stone ready for carving.

Carving of a wren as it takes shape on the stone.
I will arrange for the stone to be installed in the churchyard or cemetery according to National Association of Monumental Masons guidelines. If the stone is going to be erected outside of South Wales, I will make arrangements for the memorial to be delivered and installed by a monumental mason in your locality.

Sketch for Forest of Dean sandstone headstone.

The completed sandstone headstone with hand carved and painted lettering.
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