Does anyone still make their own headstone? Is it even allowed if people are buried in a public/ commercial cemetery? I think you would have to be buried on private (most likely family owned) property. Also, it could be a memorial headstone and not in the place where someone is buried.

The idea of making your own headstone is interesting. You would need to know how to make them, especially how to make them to last a hundred years or so.

There are guides for making temporary headstones/ gravestones for Halloween and creepy themed events. That's not likely something you want for a family member (or even a pet).

The main options are wood, cement, or stone. Cement could work and be easier to create something by mixing the cement then pouring into a mould you have made, or bought. Wood should be much easier to carve or write on, but it won't be as enduring as cement or stone. A stone marker could just be a big rock. Attach a plaque to it instead of trying to become a stone mason or engraver over night. Of course, there are pros and cons for each of them. Plan ahead.

What does a headstone need to say?

• Name
• Date of birth
• Date of death
• Sentiments, including "beloved wife, mother, sister..." or "in memory of..."
• What else? Just don't forget you won't be the only one to see it and it will probably be around longer than you will. What you write reflects on yourself as much, or more, than who you write about.

Headstone, tombstone, gravestone...?

Although the terms "headstone," "gravestone," and "tombstone" are often used interchangeably, they actually have slightly different historical meanings. A headstone is the vertical stone that marks the head of the grave, and a tombstone was originally a stone that sat on top of a coffin (like a stone lid). A gravestone is a flat stone that lies on the grave.

From the site, Love to Know.

Facebook Group: Homemade Headstones

Two of the interview questions from the Cemetery Travel site. Read the interviews and find more questions on the site.

What’s your favorite thing to do in a cemetery?

What would your epitaph be?

If I were younger and still more romantic, my favourite thing to do in a cemetery would be a picnic. You would need to come prepared, not just the usual picnic things. You might check in with the people who maintain the land and be sure a picnic is welcome there.

Next, once you are there, find a good spot. Cemetery land tends to be knobby and bumpy. You might think its all manicured, perfect cared for lawns, its not always the case. Usually they are knobby due to insects, weeds, and no doubt other things I don't know about. You won't want too much shade or sun and a sunny day will at least save you from mosquitos.

I would not plan it as a Gothic looking thing. I don't see it as a gloomy event.

Now, at this age, I like visiting cemeteries just for photography. Finding the oldest stones, even those I can't read due to weathering or plant growth. Sometimes I can read them better from the photograph I take. I also look for ornate carved or sculpted stones. I especially like those with stone flowers. Its nice to see what people have planted around the stones too, or if they have left pennies, pebbles or other little mementos on the gravestone.

I'm not ready to write my epitaph. I'd like to visit, as a ghost or whatever is available, and read what others have written.

Of course, you could put together your own kit. Some cleaning solution, brushes, a little pick to pluck mould/ fungus out of the small places, and something to keep water in. But, it supports others if you choose to buy the kit. Also, you won't have to look for the best cleaning solution and brushes yourself.

I think you might bring along something to sit on too. Also, I'd consider an old towel or blanket to spread on the grass. Just in case the grass doesn't like something in the soap/ cleaner you use.

If you pick out the fungus and mould consider collecting all of those little living things and moving them to a new location. I've seen people making gardens with mould and fungi collected from the street.

Of course, bring your camera! If nothing else, get some before and after photos.