Choosing a Memorial
We have the experience and expertise to meet all your needs and requirements.
Choosing a Memorial
Choosing the shape
Headstones and memorial plaques come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, from traditional to modern styles and anything in between. Visit us at our Crediton, Devon, premises to see our display of memorials, or get in touch to request a brochure. Our brochure shows an extensive collection of designs, all of which can be chosen as illustrated or a combination of features from several designs to create something unique. As there is such a large variety to choose from, it is not possible to keep every design, shape, colour and size in stock, therefore please bear in mind there is an approximate 12-14 week timescale on manufacturing and delivery of materials.
Choosing the colour
Over the years the variety of options on granite and other stones have increased greatly, giving you more options to choose from. A small selection of materials are shown here, if there is anything else you have seen or have in mind, please do not hesitate to let us know and we will do our best to match or find a very close alternative.
Choosing the Inscription
Coming up with the wording is always one of the most difficult parts of the process. A general guideline is shown below which will hopefully assist you during this process; however, there is no obligation to follow this if you do not wish to. A coloured scale layout, showing the shape, colour and wording will be provided prior to any order, to ensure everything is perfect before you commit.
Choosing the font and style of lettering
At F. J. Stevens & Son Ltd we are proud to offer traditional and modern lettering techniques. Each technique is normally finished with an enamel paint or 23.5crt Gold Leaf. The most popular colours are Silver, Black, white or Gold however other colours or natural cut letters can be used where suitable.
Sandblasted letters are the most common method used today. There is a huge variety of different fonts available, most of which can be found on a word processor. We have a handful that we most commonly use, however if there is a specific font you would like to use, we can of course grant your wishes.
A stencil is generated, cut and applied to the surface of the stone. Pressurised air and an abrasive mix is used to carve away at the exposed granite, leaving clean cut edges to the letters and artwork.
Incised Hand cut lettering is a more traditional method. The lettering is first marked out on stone and then cut out using a hammer and chisels. This forms a central ‘V’ cut shape in the letter.
Hand Cut Raised Lead Lettering is another traditional method, however this is no longer permissible in churchyards, unless adding an additional inscription on a memorial with this style lettering but is allowed in cemeteries. Raised lead letters are proud of the surface of the stone. Holes are drilled into the surface of the stone before lead is beaten in to act as an anchor. The lead left on the surface is then cut by hand to produce the shape of the letter.
Inlaid Lead Lettering is typically used on White Marble. It is similar to raised lead lettering but is first engraved into the stone before the holes are drilled and the lead is beaten in and the excess lead is removed, to leave the letters flush with the surface. Again, this method is no longer permissible in churchyards, unless adding an additional inscription on a memorial with this style lettering but is allowed in cemeteries.
Artwork
At F. J. Stevens & Son Ltd we hold a large variety of stock images suitable for all types of memorials, which can be seen in our artwork gallery and brochure. If you’re wanting something a little more personal, this is not a problem. Most images can be made suitable for engraving, therefore if there is something you are after please do get in touch. Artwork in Churchyards are subject to approval of the Vicar, and we can guide you on suitable designs that fall within their regulations.
Contact Us
Speak to F.J Stevens & Sons today and call us on 01363 776816 or 07850 128 413 or fill in our contact form to make an enquiry.