Introduction

["Pete Bracken" <caverpete7@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Hi Ted - I, too, am a mason/stonecutter who is making a slow transition to stonecarving and lettering. I began lettercutting a couple of years ago and have built quite a library on the subject. There is a book you should definitely have (besides the Richard Grasby book) which explains lettercutting well and provides many photos: "Letters Slate Cut: Workshop practice and the making of letters" by David Kindersley and Lida Lopes Cardozo, 1981. The book is out of print but bookfinder.com lists a brand new unused copy for $13.95 (no backordering necessary).
There is an out of print sequel to this book which is even better, but it is hard to find and expensive when you do. It is: "Letters Slate Cut: Workshop philosophy and practice in the making of letters, A Sequel" (same authors), 1990.

You might consider getting most of your practice on slate or Indiana Limestone, saving the granite and sandstone for later. Also, good sharp carbide-tipped lettering chisels are imperative for good results (if you don't already have them).

Happy Carving, Pete Bracken
(Bracken Tile and Stone, Luray, Virginia)

Pete Bracken
caverpete7@-------------
EarthLink Revolves Around You.