Why are gravestone rubbings illegal?

Why are gravestone rubbings illegal?

Gravestone rubbings, even when done properly, can cause damage over time. That is why this practice can be controversial. Some headstones might be too fragile. The practice has been banned in some states and many graveyards and cemeteries.

What can I use for grave rubbings?

Rice paper, the type most people prefer, is sold in most artist’s supply stores and comes in various weights and textures, with a medium weight preferred for rubbing.

Are grave rubbings bad?

But the truth is, it is harmful to tombstones and is currently being banned and outlawed in many different areas. Rubbing is, in itself, very abrasive to stones. It will eventually wear away the carving on stones and loosen bits of the stone causing flaking and breaking. Remember, even gentle rubbings cause decay.

Why do people make grave rubbings?

Tombstone rubbings are commonly used by family history researchers as a method for preserving a tombstone’s inscription. Learn how to do a grave rubbing safely, and when to use an alternative method of cemetery documentation.

Why do people rub chalk on graves?

Families use stone rubbing as a way to preserve family history by duplicating tombstone inscriptions.

What are tombstone etchings?

The Etching Process Etching can also be used to repair an older headstone. Etching is the process of making microscopic engravings into granite by hand. A hand etcher uses led tips to remove the polish from the stone some tips are heavier or lighter depending on the contrast or brightness they are going for.

What is Aqaba paper?

“Aqaba” Brand Rubbing Paper: White “Aqaba” rubbing paper measuring 27 by 36 inches is a high strength, multi-purpose, Archival quality paper. Its uniform surface is Superior for Gravestone Rubbing, Block prints, Origami and other Art projects. It’s malleable and does not easily tear when wrapped around a gravestone.

What does tracing headstones mean?

The practice of gravestone rubbing was to place a piece of paper against the front of the gravestone and then use a crayon or pencil to rub against the paper. This was a method of recording the look and words of the gravestone.

What do you want etched onto your tombstone?

A short message referred to as an epitaph is usually added to a headstone along with a person’s name, birth date, and death date. Typically, the goal of the epitaph is to leave some words of wisdom, share the most important values of the deceased, or summarize the person’s life.

What should I do if I want to rub a tombstone?

Make sure that it is secure so that it won’t slide as you are rubbing and cause a blurred image, and that it ​covers the face of the stone completely so that you won’t get marks on the tombstone when rubbing. If you have someone with you to assist, then you may prefer to have them hold the paper to avoid any possible damage from using tape.

What to put in your Halloween tombstone section?

Fence decorations, zombie hand lawn stakes, fake coffins and more to add some death to your Halloween display is right here in our Halloween tombstone section. From collapsible coffins to a fogging mummy, you’ll be presiding over the perfect scary cemetery in no time.

How do you restore a tombstone with chalk?

If you used chalk for your grave rubbing, then carefully spray the paper with a chalk spray such as Krylon. When the rubbing is done, carefully remove it from the tombstone and trim the edges to suit your liking. If you used interfacing for your tombstone rubbing, then place the material face up on an ironing board with an old towel over it.

How do you make a headstone with rubbing wax?

Using the rubbing wax or crayon, begin from outer edges of the headstone and work your way in. This way, you identify the border or edging and can gradually rub in the remaining design outlines. Be sure to get both the text and any patterns used on the gravestone.