Edge finishing slate

["Charles Kibby" <ckibby@zzzzzzzzzzz>]

I need to shape some tiles of slate
for use as house number plaques. Simple shapes i.e. oval,
rectangular and variations thereof. Am I on the right track using
an angle grinder with a masonary blade for the rough shaping?

Also, how is the nice 'spalled', chipped or weather-worn look on
the edges accomplished? I assume smacking it with a hammer is
a bit crude...

The grinder with diamond blade is the right start.........you might also
look into sinktop cutout blades for curves, if you're doing ovals, available
at any good stone tool distributor.

A 'pitching' tool might be a good start at a straight but rough-looking
edge.......this is available from Trow and Holden, among others, and is an
extremly useful all-round tool to have in your bag.  Have you considered a
more uniformed-grained product, like Tennesse Pink marble, for your efforts?

Good Luck,

chaz