Sandblasting is a colorful term that refers to the process of using fine bits of material projected at high velocity to etch or clean a stone surface. The name originated from the common use of sand as an abrasive in this process, although modern techniques involve the use of other materials in its place to avoid the dangers of inhaling sand dust. The process itself is still commonly used in creating headstones and other monuments, although today’s process relies much more heavily on technology than those employed in the past.
The first step in creating a memorial design for Sand Blasting in New Haven is typically performed by a graphic artist. He or she will carefully design the letters to be engraved using computer software to turn it into a readable file. Using computers instead of performing the work by hand ensures consistency and removes a large degree of the health risks associated with sandblasting by hand. Although some artisans still perform their work by hand, most monument companies make good use of modern technologies.
Once the design has been completed it can be used to create a heavily layered rubber stencil. The stencil is carefully mounted onto the headstone or other monuments, which is then loaded into a sandblasting machine. The machine will use a precision nozzle to control the application of the abrasive. The abrasive, mixed with highly pressurized air, is then used to sandblast the design into the memorial at the required depth.
Custom designs can be created, although artwork must have a line width of at least .075 inches. Sand Blasting in New Haven can also be used to create fairly simple 3D sculpted shapes. Technological limitations prevent the transfer of extremely detailed artwork, such as pictures, portraits, and fonts, with thin line spacing. By working within the parameters of the existing technology, a skilled designer such as those employed by Shelley Brothers Monuments CT can create personalized monuments that will last for years to come. One of the additional advantages of machine-controlled sandblasting is that it makes the creation of custom headstones affordable for a far wider range of people. This is important, as everyone deserves to honor their loved ones with a memorial they can afford.
