We work all over the uk, offering a complete Bespoke Memorials service, from design to installation.
Bespoke Memorials
Artisan memorials
Bespoke Memorials, Headstones and Plaques.
At Artisan Memorials, we understand the importance of honouring your loved one appropriately after they have passed. Our entirely bespoke memorials are therefore handcrafted from the finest choice of stone and feature V-carved lettering for a premium, authentic memorial that will serve as a beautiful reminder of your loved one for years to come.
Words Matter
The words you choose to mark your loved one’s passing with are of great importance, something that is attested to by the amount of thought that goes into choosing them. It is therefore fitting to choose the most authentic method to engrave them with. V-carving produces intricate, highly detailed results and can be used to create both complex and simple designs to the best effect.
Why choose a stonemason for a memorials?
A skilled stonemason with an artist’s eye is able to judge letters and spacing in a way that a computer simply can’t. We believe that the uniqueness of a person’s life should be captured in the uniqueness of their bespoke memorial, something that is more achievable through skilful letter design and traditional stonemasonry techniques.
Authentic Techniques.
Sandblasting is a common method for memorial lettering that has become the norm due to its affordability. However, to achieve a high-end finish, V-carving is always recommended for the engraving of headstones and memorial plaques. Because of the techniques we use and the knowledge we have of our art, we are able to create bespoke, premium products at a highly competitive price.
Bespoke Memorial Designs.
By putting good design and expert craftsmanship at the heart of everything we do, we are able to create beautiful, personal memorials to suit the individual needs of our clients. By listening to your description of the deceased and your wishes for how you would like them to be remembered, we can advise you on the perfect design to suit your needs.
Knowledge and Expertise.
We are a family run business. As talented stonemasons, we are knowledgeable about the different types of stone, their individual properties and where to source the highest quality raw materials from. We are experts at working with a wide range of stones sourced from within the UK and Europe, including Welsh Slate, Yorkshire Sandstone, Dorset Limestone. We also work with Granite and Marble.
The best stones and suppliers.
Stonemasonry is our craft and therefore we are discerning when it comes to the choice of stone that we use, always opting for stones sourced from the UK and Europe, over those sourced from further afield. We are fully acquainted with our suppliers and prefer to work only with materials that we are fully knowledgeable about. We always endeavour to use the highest quality raw materials possible in our work.
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We are experts in our craft, and treat each headstone and memorial as a work of art. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Best Bespoke Memorials.
How long does an inscription last?
A number of factors contribute to the longevity of an inscription. These include the type of stone, location of the stone, and the depth to which the letters at cut into the stone. When designing your memorial, we will take these factors into account, recommending a stone type according to location and aesthetic preference, and using bolder, or deeper cut letter styles where necessary.
Do I need permission to install a headstone?
Permission to install a headstone is always required and we obtain this on your behalf. The process can takes up to 4 weeks and requires a signature from the grave owner.
Normally a fee is charged by the churchyard or cemetery for permission to install a memorial.
How much does a headstone cost?
Our hand crafted stone memorial plaques start from £800. Headstone and gravestone prices start from £3,000. Kerb set arrangements start from £4,000.
when is payment due?
Once we reach an agreement on a design proposal we require a payment of 50%. At this point we order your stone and get to work on your memorial. Final payment is made following installation. It should be noted that a small installation fee is normally payable by you to the churchyard or cemetery.
How do i write an epitaph?
An epitaph is a chance to say something lasting about the person being remembered. It necessarily should be short and concise and in our experience the best ones are both uplifting and comforting to those visiting the grave, without being overly sentimental. Often inspiration is taken from literature or biblical texts. If you need help we have compiled a library of quotes and inscriptions to guide you.
what is the best stone for a memorial?
All our stones are suitable for the UK climate, but some weather better than others and some carve better. When selecting a stone, consideration should be given to the location, as damp shaded locations tend to age a stone quicker. We normally recommend using Welsh Slate, Nabresina Limestone or Yorkshire Sandstone, as all are hardy, carve well and offer a range of shades.
How long should we leave before adding a headstone?
Installing a headstone is normally permitted after a period of 6 months from the time of burial. Even so it is common to see memorials that have tilted, and this is because the burial ground had not fully settled at the time of fixing. For this reason, we recommend waiting longer. Often clients like to commemorate the first anniversary of passing with the positioning of the memorial, giving more time for the ground to settle.
Address
Artisan Memorials
2 Westgate Court Avenue Canterbury
CT2 8DW