Engraving a Child's Drawing on a Headstone

A child's drawing — a stick-figure family, a sun, a heart that says "I love you Grandpa" — can be the most moving part of a memorial. Modern engraving can reproduce it faithfully.

Two common uses

• A tribute from grandchildren to a grandparent, often on the back of the stone.
• A child's own artwork on their memorial, chosen by grieving parents. See infant and children's memorials.

Preparing the drawing

1. Scan or photograph the drawing flat, in good light.
2. Increase contrast so crayon or pencil lines are clear.
3. Remove background paper texture.
4. Keep it authentic — don't over-tidy wobbly lines; they're part of its charm.
5. Approve a full-size proof.

Engraving options

• Laser etching on black granite captures crayon texture and shading.
• Sandblasted outlines work for simple line drawings.
• Colour fill in monument paint can echo the original colours.

Ideas

• Several grandchildren's drawings in a row on the back.
• A drawing beside "Drawn with love by" and the children's names.
• A child's handwriting — see engraving handwriting.
• See personalised headstone ideas.

Involving children gently

For grandchildren, making a drawing for Grandma or Grandpa's stone can be a healing activity. Give them a simple prompt — "Draw something you loved doing together" — and plain white paper with a dark crayon or marker, which scans best. Let every child contribute if they'd like; several small drawings can sit side by side on the back. Show them the finished proof and, when the stone is installed, let them find their drawing on it. Many families say it helps children feel part of remembering.

Key Takeaways

• Children's drawings make deeply personal tributes.
• Scan flat and boost contrast.
• Keep the wobbly lines that make it special.
• Etching captures crayon texture best.

Next Step

Send the drawing with a quote request.