Sandblasting

Sandblasting involves using an industrial air compressor to blast sand onto the polished surface of a headstone and carve out designs. The removal of the polish ensures that the design will never fade. If you’re looking for a more timeless and traditional look, sandblasting is the way to go. While it keeps with centuries-old design techniques, the evolution of technology has allowed for an increased and varied selection of fonts and artwork along with faster production.

Since sandblasting involves high powered compressed sand, it does come with its design limitations. Fonts can only be so small, and artwork can only be so detailed; otherwise, the details start to blend together and become formless. We’re still able to get incredibly detailed and intricate – but it will be nothing like the detail laser etching can achieve. If retaining photo-like detail is more important to you than traditional blocky lettering and clip art, please see our laser etching page. We can also combine the two techniques for the best of both worlds!

Font Styles

V-Sunk

Text is cut deeply, forming aV at the bottom of the letters. This example was done on a frosted panel.

Polished Outline

The letters remain polished granite while the surrounding stone is frosted for contrast with a V-Cut outline around each letter.

Frosted Outline

This process is similar to Polished Outline, except the centers of the letters are frosted to remove the polish.

Skin Sunk

Text is shallow-cut into the polish. In a light colored stone, it must be colored for contrast, but the color will fade over time. Best suited for dark granites.

Frosted Edge

The letters are V-Cut into the granite and then surrounding edges of each letter is frosted against a polished background. This premium process allows lettering that doesn’t require coloring for contrast while eliminating the need for a frosted panel.

Polished Edge

The letters are V-cut into the granite and then the surrounding edges of each letter are polished against a frosted background. This is a premium process.

Shadow

The letters are frosted while the surrounding stone remains polished. A V-cut outline is cut around each letter, black lithichrome is applied in the outline to create the shadow effect.