Randi Hodges - The Art, Process and Technique of Natural Stone Engraving

Copyright 2016 Randi L Hodges

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 0692678360

ISBN 13: 9780692678367

Library of Congress Control Number: 2016941004

The Art, Process and Technique of Natural Stone Engraving, White City, OR

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

WELCOME TO THE WORLD
OF NATURAL STONE ENGRAVING

YOUR FRIENDS AT NORTHWEST STONE WISE INC.

WWW.STONEWISE.COM
& NATURAL STONE ENGRAVING

WWW.NATURALSTONEENGRAVING.COM

Randi Hodges

YouTube Video: Welcome to Rayzist p. 16

This book is unique because it is the first one to present a complete approach to learning

Being in the stone engraving business, we have our feet in four distinct industries. First is the Sign Industry, as we use the same art programs they do and we need what they have to offer in stencil creation capabilities. Think decals...The sign business works in the same vector format, but uses a plotter cutter. While they use vinyl for most of their applications, we use the same method to create stencils in sandblast mask for our stones.

Second, we are involved in the Awards, Recognition and Personalization business. The industry leaders are proficient in the engraving of glass, crystal, porcelain, plastics and hundreds of substrates in between. Multi-stage blasting and the incredible design work you folks do has me in awe. However, natural stone has presented a challenge for you.

Third, we are a part of the Monument and Memorial industry. Their process is similar and we have learned a lot from them. However, they deal primarily with polished stone and marble. Natural stone has to be approached much differently in terms of layout, set up, application and clean up.

Finally, we are now in the legions of professional sand carvers and industrial sandblasters. As natural stone engravers, you are already knowledgeable in pressure pots; different abrasives and grits; moisture separation; pressure settings; nozzle size and compressor requirements.

We are going to present the many aspects of natural stone engraving. We will discuss each aspect in detail, review various options you have and help you determine how you can find the necessary resources to succeed in natural stone engraving. Also provided are links to manufacturers websites and YouTube videos to show and explain the process to you.

When discussing photo resist and plotter cutting processes, we will go into greater detail in subsequent chapters. We will also address the additional expense items. This chapter is a general overview of the fundamentals of stone engraving business.

We will also explain how you can start this business with little or no cash outlay.

Look throughout the manual for the Light Bulb and Stone for money saving opportunities.

If you do not own the proper equipment for natural stone engraving or do not plan to purchase it anytime soon, we have provided you with information to contract out and rent equipment as you test the viability of this business for yourself

When and if you do decide to purchase your own equipment, it will be important for you to understand the following chapters because it may save you considerable expense in purchasing the right equipment. Our collaborating manufactures and preferred vendors have also put together some awesome packages for our readers.

I feel that there is enough business for every Mom and Pop, (excuse the term) in every city across this country and beyond. A bit of motivation and effort, and you could be the The Rock Guy or Gal or Family (I was the Rock Lady, my sister was the Other Rock Lady) of Reseda or Des Moines. The person that Carves It in Stone is creating a lasting tribute.

Stone carving has always been symbolic, defying time and is about commemorating, memorializing, and celebrating special passages. Memorializing loved ones has been an industry for thousands of years in civilized society. In these times when finding authenticity is difficult, stone is universally solid, organic and real.

There is a need and a niche in every town that has pet lovers who experience pet loss.

Does your community celebrate marriages and anniversaries?

What about commemorating and honoring loved ones who passed away? Does your area offer local growers or farmers markets? That is where we started!