Simple answers about cemetery lettering.
Short answers to the questions families ask, from the first photo to the finished inscription.
- Lettering Craft
Can you add another name to a shared headstone?
We can assess a shared headstone for an additional name and dates beside the existing inscription.
- Cemeteries
What cemetery details do you need for lettering?
Include the cemetery name, town, and any section, lot or grave number you have.
- Pricing
How are characters counted for cemetery lettering?
Our calculator counts letters, numbers and punctuation, while leaving out spaces.
- Cemeteries
Who handles the cemetery paperwork for lettering?
We coordinate the cemetery paperwork needed for the agreed lettering work.
- Stone Care
Is headstone cleaning the same as restoration?
Cleaning addresses surface dirt and growth, while restoration considers worn inscriptions and other work the stone may need.
- Pricing
How much does it cost to add a year to a headstone?
Adding a four digit year costs $360 under our lettering formula of $300 plus $15 per carved character.
- Process
Does the headstone need to leave the cemetery?
Our lettering work is normally completed at the cemetery, with the headstone staying in place.
- Process
Will I receive a photo of the finished lettering?
We share a photo when the agreed lettering work is finished.
- Stone Care
How much does headstone cleaning cost?
Headstone cleaning is $450 flat per stone.
- Process
What is a headstone lettering proof?
A lettering proof shows the proposed wording and layout before carving begins.
- Lettering Craft
What if there is not enough room for more lettering?
We review the available space on the stone before confirming a lettering job.
- Process
How long does cemetery lettering take?
During our April through October working season, approved lettering orders are completed within six weeks.
- Cemeteries
Where does The Stonesmith provide cemetery lettering?
Our Massachusetts team serves Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, Southern Maine, Southern Vermont, and all of Rhode Island.
- Lettering Craft
Can new lettering match the existing headstone?
We review the existing letter style, spacing and layout when planning an addition to a headstone.
- Process
How does a photo become a finished headstone inscription?
Send a clear photo, your requested inscription, and the cemetery name and town so we can prepare a quote and layout for approval.
- Process
Which photos should I send for a lettering quote?
Send a clear photo of the whole headstone, including the base and the space where the new lettering will go.
- Stone Care
Why does headstone restoration need a custom quote?
Restoration depends on the condition of the stone and the work it needs, so each job receives a custom quote.
- Process
Can I request cemetery lettering in winter?
You can send your photos and request a lettering quote during winter.
- Process
How a Name Is Added to an Existing Headstone and What It Costs
An honest look at what's actually involved in adding a name to a headstone already in the cemetery. The craft, the on site work, the cemetery paperwork, and our pricing formula.
Have a question we haven't covered?
Send us a photo of the stone and what you're trying to do. We'll quote it; and if it raises a good question, we'll write a guide answering it for the next family.
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