When choosing a grave marker or tombstone, most people focus on the front—names, dates, and epitaphs. But the back of a headstone offers an equally meaningful space for personalization. It can serve as a canvas for unique messages, symbols, or images that reflect the life and legacy of a loved one.
In this article, we’ll explore back of headstone ideas, the typical sizes of grave markers, and how you can make the most of every surface while honoring cemetery guidelines. Whether you’re planning ahead or memorializing a loved one, understanding your options ensures a lasting tribute.
Understanding the Typical Size of Grave Markers
Before choosing what to engrave on the back, it’s important to understand the standard dimensions for tombstones and wholesale grave markers. These measurements can impact how much space is available for additional inscriptions.
| Type | Typical Die Size (Front/Back) | Base Size |
|---|---|---|
| Single Upright Headstone | 24″ x 6″ x 20″ | 36″ x 12″ x 6″ |
| Companion Upright Headstone | 36″ x 6″ x 20″ or larger | 48″ x 12″ x 6″ or larger |
| Large Custom Monuments | 48″+ wide | Custom dimensions |
These dimensions offer sufficient space not only for front inscriptions but also for back of headstone ideas that provide extra depth and character to the memorial.
Why Customize the Back of a Headstone?
Adding details to the back allows for more storytelling, creativity, and personalization. While the front is often reserved for formal details, the back can celebrate hobbies, values, relationships, and even humor.
Some families prefer to keep the front minimal and use the back for emotional expression, spiritual verses, or headstone ideas that reflect individuality.
Popular Back of Headstone Ideas
Here are some meaningful and creative elements you can consider:
- Family Names or Genealogy
- Ideal for family plots. Include parents, children, or family trees.
- Favorite Quotes or Scriptures
- Passages that comfort or inspire—spiritual or secular.
- Poetry or Song Lyrics
- Personalize with verses from favorite hymns, poems, or songs.
- Images or Symbols
- Engraved flowers, military insignia, or religious symbols.
- Many families now use laser etching on granite for portraits or scenic backgrounds.
- Accomplishments or Hobbies
- Highlight a career, service, or passion (e.g., fishing, painting, teaching).
- Personal Messages
- Notes from children, spouses, or friends—something heartfelt and lasting.
- QR Code Memorials
- A modern trend where a scannable code links to a digital tribute page.
At Central Monument in Shreveport, we’ve seen many families use the back of headstones for deeply moving tributes that go beyond tradition.
Choosing the Right Material
Granite is the most common material for upright headstones, and for good reason—it’s durable, weather-resistant, and perfect for fine etching. At Monuments of the South, we offer wholesale granite headstones in various finishes and colors, perfect for custom engravings on both sides.
When selecting from wholesale grave markers, make sure the granite slab has enough thickness (usually 6–8 inches) to allow front and back engravings without compromising stability.
Design and Engraving Tips
- Keep contrast in mind: Choose polished surfaces for laser etching and rough finishes for carved inscriptions.
- Balance simplicity with sentiment: Too much text can become hard to read or feel crowded.
- Ask for a layout preview: At Monuments of the South, we provide design proofs so you can visualize both the front and back before engraving begins.
- Coordinate with the cemetery: Some may have restrictions on double-sided inscriptions or require approval for non-traditional designs.
FAQs: Back of Headstone Ideas & Sizes
Q: Can every headstone be engraved on the back?
A: Not all headstones are thick enough for back engraving. Make sure the die is at least 6 inches thick and check with your monument provider and cemetery.
Q: Do back engravings cost extra?
A: Yes, adding designs or inscriptions to the back typically involves additional labor and materials. However, wholesale granite headstones can make this option more affordable.
Q: Is laser etching available for the back of the headstone?
A: Absolutely. Laser etching is commonly used on the back to add portraits, landscapes, or artwork, especially on polished granite surfaces.
Q: What should I consider when choosing back of headstone ideas?
A: Think about what mattered most to your loved one. Was it family, faith, service, or a specific passion? Use that as inspiration.
Q: Can I see examples before deciding?
A: Yes. At Central Monument Shreveport, and through our website, we offer design galleries and samples to help inspire your choices.
Final Thoughts
The back of a headstone offers a unique opportunity to go beyond basic information and tell a fuller story of a life lived. Whether you want to engrave a cherished quote, a family tribute, or a custom image, the extra space allows you to personalize a lasting memory.
At Monuments of the South, we’re honored to help families across Louisiana and beyond design meaningful markers with creativity and care. From wholesale grave markers to fully customized memorials, we guide you through every step of the process—because every life deserves to be remembered with dignity and love.
