The Art of Memorial Lettering: V-Cutting Explained
The prospect of designing a headstone can seem daunting; after all, it will act as a lasting tribute to your loved one for generations to come. Arguably, the most important part of any headstone is its inscription, so it’s important that this is legible, aesthetically pleasing and will stand the test of time.
For centuries now, stonemasons have achieved this through V-carving. But what is V-carving? And how does it compare to more modern techniques? The team at Artisan Memorials is here to explain the process.
What is V-carving?
V-carving is a traditional, time-honoured method of engraving stone, thought to have been first pioneered by the Romans. Using a hammer and chisel, a stonemason will carefully carve the inscription directly into the stone’s surface, creating distinct, deep grooves.
The benefits of V-carving
So what is the enduring appeal of V-carving and why is it still widely used today? V-carving a headstone offers a huge range of benefits, such as:
- Timeless look: V-carving is a technique that has been in use for millennia and for good reason: it creates a traditional, beautiful look that will stand the test of time.
- Precision: V-carving is carried out by a skilled stonemason and can accommodate even the most intricate designs with a cleaner, more controlled finish.
- Durable: By V-carving an inscription, you create deep grooves that can remain legible for much longer and resist weathering, whereas shallower etchings are more susceptible to fading over time.
- Personal touch: Each V-carved headstone from Artisan Memorials is meticulously crafted by our experienced stonemason, Mark, who has over 30 years of experience. His skill and expertise ensures a unique look that other companies just can’t replicate, and every headstone is thoughtfully created with your loved one in mind.
V-carving vs sandblasting
When designing a headstone, you may have noticed the term ‘sandblasting’ coming up in conversation. But what is sandblasting and how does it compare to more traditional methods?
Sandblasting involves applying a stencil of the design to the headstone. A highly pressurised stream of sand and air is then directed at the stencil to carve the design into the stone. This method creates much shallower grooves, resulting in a finished product that lacks the same depth and detail as a V-carved headstone. This means a sandblasted headstone will require paint to be seen, as these flat letters won’t catch the light and shade cast by the sun and so to remain legible they have to be repainted regularly.
A sandblasted headstone is usually less durable and more susceptible to wear and weathering, while a V-carved headstone will typically remain legible for a lot longer by comparison. V-carving also allows for much greater freedom when it comes to design, allowing for intricate details and personal touches that just aren’t possible with sandblasting.
If you’re after something quick and cost-effective, then sandblasting may be the way to go, whereas if you want to honour your loved one with a headstone that will remain in exceptional condition for decades to come, a V-carved headstone is the superior choice.
How can Artisan Memorials help?
Here at Artisan Memorials, we craft bespoke headstones for customers nationwide. Our skilled stonemason, Mark Brooks, has over 30 years of experience and is also an expert calligrapher, meaning he can craft beautiful, personalised designs. He will then meticulously V-carve the inscription for an elegant, timeless finish that sandblasting simply can’t match.
Artisan Memorials provide quality headstones and gravestones to customers in the following areas, Kent, Ashford, Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, London, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead and Watford. Contact us for a free quick quote.
If you’d like to know more about our bespoke V-carved headstones, get in touch with our compassionate professionals today. We can schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas and craft a thoughtful design to honour your loved one. Our stonemason will always be on hand to answer any questions about the V-carving process or the types of stone we have available – contact us to find out more.