How to create a grave headstone???

[bbouslaugh]

Some years ago my mother died and was buried in a little cemetary near her country home in Iowa.   Before she died she said she wanted me to create her headstone, but I never had the time (nor much of an inclination) to actually do something like this. However life changes and  now I do have the time (I'm finally retired) and I have the desire to create a not-large head stone in memory of my dear ole mum.    I have not a clue how to even begin this project.

  I am handy with power tools ( I have a studio type workspace but cannot make a lot of continuous noise because of close neighbors) and I have about a thousand dollars set aside for the project.

I need some expert advice (and thanks for any of your responses). 

bill (in washington, dc)

[Mark D.]

What size stone would you be making? If it is a traditional rectangular monument it will not be cost efficient for you as you would need a 24" bridge saw (if the material is 8" in thickness).

You would either use a water jet or chisels for the engraving part.

Mark

[stonecutter]

There are several ways you could produce a nice, quality marker for your Mum within the budget you have. Probably cheaper and nicer than you think. View my website at www.rocklight.org. And I can give you other resources and links. I am in San Antonio, Texas. You should be able to purchase a granite blank for less than $300 and quite a bit less depending on color and size. Check with the cemetery as many have varying restrictions as to size and placement. Some even restrict some font and stone colors. Moving the stone can be your biggest obstacle sometimes. I could create a stencil for you to apply to the stone and take to a local sandblaster for engraving. many options. Contact me with questions.

[Mark D.]

Very nice site Stonecutter!

Mark