• Depending on the look you want, there are two main tools used to engrave headstones.carved headstone image by Rob Hill from Fotolia.com
  
  There are specific tools for each and every job that get that particular job done as efficiently and as nicely as possible. Headstone carving tools are no exception. While the tools of this particular trade have changed over the years, the importance of a job well done remains. Using the right tools and techniques can make a world of difference in your final result. Depending on the look you are going for, a sandblaster or etching tools are what you need to create a lasting headstone.
  
  

Sandblasters

• The majority of headstones today are cut using sandblasters. The sandblaster applies a high-pressure stream of air or steam mixed with sand into the stone which cuts out the desired design on the stencil. The final result will be a polished headstone with the sandblasted words or designs showing the more natural stone underneath.
  
  

Etchers

• Etching is a technique often used on black stone headstones. The etching is most often done using lasers and it leaves white lettering that isn't quite as deep as what a sandblaster can do.
  
  

Stencils

• Stencils are used with both the sandblasting technique and the etching technique. For sandblasting, the stencils are made of thick rubber, so as not to be destroyed when the sandblaster hits them. For etching, the stencils are transferred onto carbon paper and then sketched directly onto the headstone.