How to design your own headstone

Designing your headstone is an important choice. When sifting through all of the options available to you, it can be hard to know which options suit you best, let alone explore your options to customise your headstone. Memorials of Distinction can help you to explore your options, choosing a size, shape and style that’s right for you. If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, you can talk to our friendly team about our customisation options for everything from headstone size, material, shape, lettering colouring and much more. 

Where will the headstone be placed?

Where a headstone can be placed depends on the cemetery you wish to be buried in. It’s not common knowledge that cemeteries often have their own rules and restrictions for headstones and burial plots. When considering your burial plans, it’s good to get in touch with the cemetery to find out more. You may want to ask what the maximum allowed height of the headstone is, or what width the base of the stone is allowed to be. This knowledge will help you to make informed decisions about not only where you want to be buried, but how you design your headstone. 

How large will the headstone size be?

When considering what size you want your headstone to be, you may want to think about whether or not you want it to be used by future generations. You may wish to design a headstone that can be used as a companion memorial (for two people) or family memorial (for multiple family members), and as such choose a larger headstone option. Gilded book headstones are perfect for couples who want to be remembered alongside their beloved, whilst large traditional headstones are well suited as a generational memorial. It’s also important to consider whether a headstone is the right size to be personalised in the ways you desire. If you’d like to add an etching or photo plaque, you may want to choose a larger headstone to accommodate more details. 

What shape will the headstone be?

Having decided what size you want your headstone to be, you can consider the different shape options on offer. Headstones come in a variety of shape designs, with some of the most popular including camber top,  peon top, arc top and ogee top. The shape of your headstone will help to showcase your values, beliefs and interests after you’ve gone, so it’s important to find a shape that meets cemetery requirements, but also will faithfully represent your memory for decades to come.

Whether you prefer a more traditional style like our traditional round top headstone, or a more statement design like our kneeling angel and heart headstone, there are plenty of options to choose from, all of which can be personalised to your taste. 

What will the headstone be made of?

Whilst size and shape are often the most heavily regulated design choices by cemeteries, some also have restrictions on what materials are used.  Churchyards will often require the wording of a headstone to be approved as well, to ensure it is in line with specific guidelines. As such, it’s imperative that you discuss your wishes with your chosen cemetery before selecting your headstone’s material. All of the materials we offer are easy to maintain and durable, so whatever you choose you can have peace of mind that your headstone provides a space of comfort and reflection for years to come. 

What colour will the headstone be? 

Our range includes granite (customisable with a range of beautiful colour options), white marble and nabresina (limestone). Choose from classical black granite to sparkling emerald pearl depending on your personal style. Our stones can also have multiple finishing options. Consider a matte look for a sleek and understated design, or a polished finish to make bright colours and crystal flecks pop. It’s worth noting that whilst lighter colours and materials create a beautiful, bright focal point, they are also more obvious when dirty than darker varieties, requiring overall higher levels of maintenance. 

Will the headstone be engraved or etched?

Adding an engraving or etching to your headstone is a great way to add a personal touch to your memorial. People generally choose etching and engraving designs that illustrate who they are as a person and what matters to them. This can include religious symbols, hearts, flowers and plants, but you make your design whatever you’d like it to be. If there’s a portrait you’d like to include, or an illustration that means something to you, we can recommend ways to make your memorial unique and meaningful. Our friendly and professional team at Memorials of Distinction are happy to discuss your ideas and can guide you towards options that work for you and your family.

How will the headstone be customised?

You can choose to customise most aspects of your headstone, including the size, shape, material, colour and finish. It can feel overwhelming with so many options to choose from, and many people miss out on the chance to customise their headstones as a result. We strive to make all of our design requests happen, from adding small heart etches to the base of headstones, to adding football imagery. Chat to our friendly team to find out more about our headstone customisation options.