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