What's the Difference Between Headstone Engraving and Etching?

When choosing and designing the headstone for your loved one's grave, you can put far more on it than a simple epitaph. It's possible to put a wide variety of text styles, insignia, artwork, or even photographic copies onto the stone. You have so many options for honouring those who have passed, and many people find the process of choosing artwork to help in their own emotional healing.

However, the types of text and art put onto the memorial depend on whether you use headstone engraving or etching. These are different processes, which produce different results. Larsen's Memorials can help you choose the right option for your needs.

Headstone Engraving vs Headstone Etching

I. Headstone Engraving

Engraving is the traditional way of carving text and images into a granite headstone. In years past, the engraving would be done by hand with a hammer and chisel. Some artisans still prefer this method because of the greater level of care involved. However, use of sandblasting has also gained popularity because it allows for extremely precise cuts - which is particularly helpful for creating text.

Using either method, headstone engraving produces deep cuts which are highly visible. It can be used to create dark or light patterns, resulting in a beautiful classic look. However, engraving struggles to produce finely detailed work, as the cuts will always be relatively large. It's best suited for text or large icons such as crosses or military insignia.

II. Headstone Etching

Etching is a more fine-tuned process for making smaller, shallower cuts in a granite headstone. While etching can be done by hand, in most cases it's accomplished using a laser to burn directly through the stone. There are limits to what a laser can handle, and hand etching can produce better results - but this requires truly exceptional skill on the part of the carver.

Etching is best for producing highly detailed artwork or design patterns around the stone. Almost anything can be etched into the stone, even recognizable portraits of the deceased taken directly from a photograph. Etching is great when you want to create a truly distinct, custom memorial stone.

However, be aware that the relatively shallow cuts of etching means it will be more susceptible to weathering over the years. You may need to take extra care of the gravestone to slow down the erosion.

Larsen's Memorials Make Hard Times a Little Easier

For years, we have been one of Winnipeg's best sources for high-quality granite headstones and other memorials to honour your loved ones. Our staff is experienced in both headstone engraving and etching, and we can create beautiful custom artwork and text, made exactly as you request.

If you need any assistance in choosing the best memorial for your loved one, please contact us.