Planning a memorial
For more than 30 years, we have helped people to create unique and personal memorials
We will guide you to an artist who will create a personal work of art to celebrate the life of someone you've lost. It will be designed and carved by hand, using skills that have been passed on through generations of craftspeople. You may have seen the work of these artists - bespoke gravestones, headstones and sculptures - on our former website, memorialsbyartists.co.uk
Only the most exceptional artists
Our artists are selected by Master letter carvers for the quality and originality of their designs. Their hand-carved lettering has a presence, humanity and expressive power that a machine-made memorial can't match.
Help throughout the process
Finding the right artist begins with a conversation. We talk over the phone, or in person, about what sort of memorial you would like. Whether for churchyard, cemetery or private garden, we find an artist who will work closely with you to design and create your memorial.
You can visit our artists’ profiles page in order to review the work of the artists.
The Right Choice
Whether you have only a nugget of an idea of what kind of memorial you’d like, or have a more detailed plan, we can help. We will guide you through the process of choosing an artist from our register and creating your memorial. We work with only the finest artists in the UK. We also have publications available, with photographs of memorials to help to inspire.
FIRST IDEAS AND THE Drawing
Once you’ve chosen your artist, you’ll talk to them by phone or email or visit their studio to discuss your ideas. Your artist will give you an idea of the cost and create a design. This is a collaborative process, and you are encouraged to make comments and suggestions on the drawings. When you approve a design and costs, an application is made to your church or cemetery. Once approved, your artist will then give you an idea of the likely timescales involved.
The Carving Process
Only when the design is absolutely perfect will the artist commit hammer to chisel. Having prepared the stone, the artist carves the letters, each carefully spaced, creating rhythm and beauty.
Installing your Piece
Most of our artists can install your finished memorial. This ancient tradition, sometimes called ‘fixing’, ensures the stone is positioned in the best possible manner. Some artists will have a memorial fixer that they regularly use. You may like to come to the installation, this is something you can discuss this with your artist.