Tips To Choose An Inscription For A Headstone
It can be a challenge and overwhelming to select the right words for a memorial or headstone. I've been carving headstones more than ten years, and I would like to offer some suggestions to help you choose the appropriate words.
1.Try to simplify it
A short inscription will always be more memorable than a longer one. Even though you might have lots of things you'd like to put on the headstone, it is always wise to inquire whether you really require so much on the stone.
For instance, there's no legal requirement to include the entire name and dates. In certain cases just the first name may even be more important!
Keep it simple and you'll have more strength in your stone.
2.Avoid duplicates of others
There are numerous templates available on the websites of monumental masons. If you can, steer clear of these and follow your own heart. You can choose your words and stay away from following trends. It's now a common fashion to begin the stone by writing "in love memory" the way it used to be earlier. Consider whether you actually need or want to write these words on your memorial.
3.It isn't just about the words
Be aware that a headstone's significance is not only about words. It is important to consider the design, letterforms, shape, and possibly reverse carving. It is also possible to consider other senses, for instance, the touch. To signify eternity, a round headstone or an unveiled sunken bowl with gilded letterforms could be commissioned.
4. The material you select can affect the text
Different headstones will require different letterforms. Grave Site can have an impact on the length of the inscription. For instance, a limestone headstone requires bold, large letters which means a shorter inscription. If on the other hand you choose the slate headstone, it will take lots of small italic letters and a longer inscription.
You must decide which is more important, the material or the inscription, and then work from there.
5.The epitaph
You may not want an epitaph, however should you choose one, don't forget that there are many choices for where it should go. It can be put either on the side or back of the stone. It can be circular or circular in shape, or it could wrap around the edge. It isn't a requirement to put it on the front. The reverse of the stone may be used to create an epitaph with a lengthier design which doesn't take up too much space on the front.
6. Be patient and take your time.
Do not be hurried into choosing a headstone. I recommend waiting at least one year before beginning to think about the text.
If you are grieving, the words you wish to say could be emotional, and when you look at the stones years later, you might regret the decision you chose. It is recommended to put off the issue for a year in order to let emotions settle and give you time to think about what truly matters.
Don't feel pressured to place a headstone on your grave. Waiting is not a crime. In the long run, others will be impressed by how thoughtful and beautiful the headstone you chose and appreciate why you waited for so long. Sadly people often feel hurried and embarrassed to leave a grave marked only with temporary markers. Be aware that it is your loved ones grave and you should determine when it is appropriate.
7.Look for ideas
You can find many images on the internet of beautiful headstones that will be awe-inspiring. Also consider looking at churchyards.
Don't buy the first mason that you see. Take a look at the different designs of stone carvers to find the one that speaks to you. It is essential to find someone who can guide you and work together.