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Tag: Memorials

How to Create a Beautiful Memorial Garden for a Loved One or Pet

Posted on by Kate

Creating a memorial garden is a meaningful way to remember someone special—whether that’s a beloved family member or a much-missed pet. It provides a peaceful space to reflect, remember, and feel connected, all within the comfort of your own home.

There’s no right or wrong way to design a memorial garden. The most important thing is that it feels personal to you. This guide will help you create a space that is both beautiful, calming, and long-lasting.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step is choosing a location that feels calm and appropriate. This could be:

  • A quiet corner of your garden
  • Under a favourite tree
  • Near a patio or seating area
  • A spot that holds special memories

Try to pick a space that gets some natural light and feels peaceful throughout the day. Even a small area can be transformed into something truly special.

Choose a kind a relaxing location for a memorial garden.

Add a Personal Memorial Marker

A memorial sign or plaque often becomes the focal point of the garden. It creates a lasting tribute and gives the space a clear sense of purpose.

Stone Memorials – Timeless and Elegant

Stone memorials are a classic choice. They are incredibly durable, weather-resistant, and blend beautifully into natural surroundings—making them ideal for both human and pet memorial gardens.

Wooden Memorials – Warm and Natural

Wooden memorials offer a softer, more natural appearance. They are perfect for countryside settings or gardens with a rustic feel, adding warmth and character to the space.

Engraved Plaques – Simple and Personal

Engraved plaques are a versatile option and can be personalised with names, dates, or meaningful messages. Materials such as slate, laminate, or Corian provide a clean and lasting finish.

Simple, high-quality memorials crafted for memorial gardens.

Incorporate Meaningful Planting

Plants and flowers bring life and movement to a memorial garden, creating a space that changes beautifully with the seasons.

Consider including:

  • Favourite flowers of your loved one
  • Perennials that return each year as a symbol of remembrance
  • Evergreen plants for year-round structure
  • Lavender or herbs for a calming scent and atmosphere

Planting something symbolic, such as a tree or rose bush, can also create a lasting, living tribute.

Pet memorials crafted by The Sign Maker.

Create a Space to Sit and Reflect

Adding a place to sit allows you to fully enjoy the space and spend quiet moments reflecting.

This could be a simple bench, a chair, or even a natural stone seat—something subtle that invites you to pause.

Add Personal Touches

The most meaningful memorial gardens include personal elements that reflect the life being remembered.

You might include:

  • Wind chimes or decorative ornaments
  • Solar lights or lanterns for a soft evening glow
  • Decorative stones or edging
  • Items that reflect hobbies, personality, or memories

For pet memorials, consider adding a favourite toy, lead hook, or a small engraved detail that captures their character.

Keep It Simple and Low Maintenance

A memorial garden should feel peaceful, not overwhelming. Choosing low-maintenance materials and planting will help ensure the space remains a place of comfort rather than a chore to manage.

Durable signage, weather-resistant materials, and easy-care plants are all key to creating a space that lasts.

A Space to Remember

A memorial garden is more than just a physical space—it’s somewhere to remember, reflect, and feel close to those you’ve lost.

Whether you choose a simple engraved plaque, a traditional stone memorial, or a handcrafted wooden marker, the most important thing is that it feels right for you.

Over time, this small space can become one of the most meaningful parts of your home.

Choosing the Right Plot Marker: A Guide to Memorial Crosses, Wooden & Engraved Grave Markers

Posted on by Kate

When someone we love passes away, creating a lasting and meaningful tribute becomes incredibly important. A plot marker is often one of the first ways families choose to mark a grave, providing a place of remembrance, reflection, and respect.

Whether temporary or long-term, the right marker helps honour a life while guiding visitors to a loved one’s resting place. In this guide, we explore the different types of plot markers available, including memorial crosses, wooden markers, and engraved options, helping you choose the most suitable memorial.

What Is a Plot Marker?

A plot marker is a sign or memorial placed at a grave to identify and commemorate the person buried there. Traditionally, grave markers have taken many forms, from simple wooden crosses to more permanent stone memorials.

In many cases, plot markers are used as an initial memorial before a headstone is installed, or as a simple and natural alternative in their own right.

Memorial Crosses: A Traditional and Meaningful Tribute

Memorial crosses are one of the most recognised and symbolic forms of grave markers. The cross has long represented faith, hope, and remembrance, making it a meaningful choice for many families.

Historically, simple wooden crosses have been used to mark graves for centuries, providing a respectful and immediate tribute.

Why choose a memorial cross?

  • A traditional and widely recognised memorial style 
  • Symbolic of faith, love, and remembrance 
  • Simple, respectful, and elegant 
  • Ideal as a temporary or permanent tribute 

Our memorial crosses can be personalised with engraved text, allowing families to include names, dates, and meaningful messages.

A wide selection of wooden memorial crosses to aid plot markers.

Wooden Plot Markers: Natural and Timeless

Wooden plot markers offer a warm, natural aesthetic that blends beautifully into churchyards, cemeteries, and green burial grounds.

They are particularly popular for those seeking a more understated and environmentally conscious option.

Benefits of wooden plot markers:

  • Natural appearance that complements outdoor surroundings 
  • Eco-friendly and sustainable choice 
  • Simple, clean design 
  • Suitable for temporary or long-term use 

Our wooden plot markers, crafted from durable hardwood such as iroko, are designed to withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining their appearance over time.

Bespoke, wooden plot markers for graves.

Engraved Plot Markers: Clear and Personalised

For families looking for clarity and durability, engraved plot markers provide a more permanent and highly legible solution.

These markers typically include important details such as names, dates, and personal messages, helping preserve memory and identity.

Why choose an engraved marker?

  • Clear, long-lasting lettering that won’t fade 
  • Personalised inscriptions and messages 
  • Professional and refined appearance 
  • Suitable for both temporary and permanent memorials 

Our engraved plot markers combine craftsmanship with precision engraving, ensuring every detail is easy to read and built to last.

Engraved memorial plaques designed as plot markers.

Choosing the Right Plot Marker

Every family and every memorial is unique. When choosing a plot marker, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

1. Temporary or Permanent Use

Some cemeteries require a temporary marker before a headstone is installed, while others allow simpler long-term markers. Wooden crosses and plot markers are often ideal for immediate use.

2. Style and Personal Meaning

Consider what best reflects your loved one:

  • A cross for faith and tradition 
  • A wooden marker for simplicity and nature 
  • An engraved plaque for clarity and detail 

3. Material and Durability

Outdoor conditions can affect how long a marker lasts. Hardwood options such as iroko offer durability, while engraved finishes ensure text remains legible over time.

4. Cemetery Guidelines

Always check local cemetery or churchyard regulations, as there may be rules on size, materials, or styles permitted.

A Personal and Lasting Tribute

Plot markers may be simple in form, but they carry deep emotional meaning. Whether you choose a traditional memorial cross, a natural wooden marker, or a carefully engraved plaque, each option provides a respectful way to honour and remember a loved one.

At The Sign Maker, we understand how important these decisions are. That’s why we offer a carefully crafted range of memorial crosses and plot markers, designed with care, quality, and respect.

Each piece is made to provide a meaningful and lasting tribute—helping you create a place of remembrance that truly reflects the life it represents.

Explore Our Range of Plot Markers

If you need guidance choosing the right option, our team is always here to help.

Introducing Our New Memorial Brochure for Funeral Professionals

Posted on by Kate

We’re proud to share that we’ve recently created a new comprehensive memorial brochure, which is now being sent out to funeral directors, crematoriums, and natural burial grounds across the country.

This brochure has been thoughtfully designed as a practical and gentle resource—one that professionals can use to help guide families through the often overwhelming process of choosing a memorial for someone they love.

Supporting Meaningful Choices at a Difficult Time

We understand that selecting a memorial is about far more than materials or styles. It’s about telling a story, honouring a life, and creating something deeply personal that feels right for the individual being remembered.

That’s why this new brochure is so extensive. It showcases a wide range of bespoke memorial options, explains design possibilities in clear and accessible language, and offers inspiration to help families imagine something truly meaningful—whether that’s traditional, contemporary, or entirely unique.

Our hope is that funeral professionals can use the brochure as a supportive conversation tool, helping clients explore ideas at their own pace and make thoughtful, informed decisions during a very sensitive time.

Designed With Care, Clarity, and Compassion

Every detail of the brochure has been carefully considered:

  • Clear explanations without overwhelming jargon
  • Visual inspiration to spark ideas
  • An emphasis on personalisation and craftsmanship
  • A respectful tone that reflects the significance of the moment

It’s not intended to rush decisions, but to gently open up possibilities.

New UK Memorials Brochure for Funeral Directors

Request a Brochure

If you are a funeral director, crematorium, or natural burial ground and would like to receive a copy of our new memorial brochure, we would be very happy to send one to you.

Simply get in touch with us directly, and we’ll arrange for a brochure to be sent out.

We’re honoured to support the vital work you do and hope this new resource helps families create memorials that truly reflect the lives they are remembering.

Metal Stakes – A Lasting Foundation for Your Memorial Plaque

Posted on by Kate

At The Sign Maker, we understand that a memorial plaque is far more than a sign — it’s a lasting tribute to a life, a memory, or a special moment. Just as every plaque carries meaning, so too should the way it’s displayed. The foundation that supports your plaque plays an important role in its presentation and longevity.

That’s why we offer a range of beautifully crafted metal stakes, each designed to provide strength, stability, and elegance. Whether placed in a quiet garden, a memorial space, or a cherished family setting, our metal stakes ensure your plaque stands with grace and endurance for many years to come.

Stakes for Wooden or Corian Plaques

Simple, strong, and timeless — our angle iron stake is a classic choice for those who want a secure, understated support for their memorial plaque. Its solid construction offers exceptional stability and a clean, professional appearance that endures through every season. Suitable for both wooden and Corian plaques, this stake represents quiet strength and reliability.

Wrought Iron Spike

Handcrafted by our local blacksmith using traditional techniques, the wrought iron spike combines artistry with resilience. Each one is galvanised and painted for protection against the elements, ensuring it remains beautiful and durable for many years. While elegant in form, it is remarkably strong — the perfect support for smaller wooden plaques or backing boards.

Each wrought iron spike is carefully designed to screw directly into the back of your plaque, creating a secure and graceful display.

Metal stakes by UK Memorials.

Wrought Iron Plaque Holder

For those who wish to display their memorial plaque higher off the ground, the wrought iron plaque holder is a truly special choice. With its distinctive four-legged design, handcrafted detail, and exceptional stability, it offers both beauty and presence. Ideal for settings where you’d like your plaque to stand tall and be easily seen, it brings a sense of permanence and poise to any memorial space.

Wrought Iron Lectern

For larger plaques or information boards, our wrought iron lectern provides both elegance and strength. Standing approximately 1.5 metres high with two sturdy legs, it’s designed to hold wooden or thicker plaques securely within its frame. This style is often chosen for memorial gardens, commemorative sites, and heritage locations — offering a dignified way to share a story or memory.

Stakes for Plaques Without Backing Boards

If your memorial plaque does not require a wooden backing, our wrought iron spikes with plates offer a simple yet refined solution. Available in a range of sizes, these are ideal for a variety of materials including Acrylic Laminate, Anodised Aluminium, Corian, and more.

Each plate is crafted with the same care and attention to detail as our other wrought iron options — strong, weather-resistant, and designed to enhance the beauty of your plaque. For the best appearance, we recommend choosing a plate slightly smaller than your plaque for a balanced and elegant finish.

Our sizes include:

  • 100 x 75mm, 140 x 90mm, and 160 x 160mm – on single spikes

200 x 150mm and 270 x 200mm – on double spikes, available in 350mm or 550mm lengths

High-quality wrought iron spike with plates crafted in a variety of sizes.

Crafted to Endure, Designed to Honour

Every metal stake we make is a reflection of our commitment to quality, care, and remembrance. From the substantial strength of angle iron to the refined detail of hand-forged wrought iron, each piece is built to last — a fitting foundation for a tribute meant to stand the test of time.

Whether you’re commemorating a loved one, marking a special place, or creating a peaceful area for reflection, our metal stakes ensure your plaque is displayed beautifully, securely, and with the dignity it deserves.

Making Space for Grief at Christmas

Posted on by Peak Online

In a season surrounded with seemingly endless festive cheer, making space for grief at Christmas time might feel a little strange. There are expectations of family fun and a universal prerequisite for feelings of hope and of joy. However, at UK Memorials, we appreciate that those experiencing feelings of grief (whether over a recent loss or for somebody who died many years before), may be seeking comfort throughout this particular period. We first want to say that our hearts go out to anybody seeking space for their grief this Christmas. Our thoughts are with you and we hope that this short blog post can offer a few words of advice for this season.

 

Ways To Make Space For Your Grief At Christmas Time

Talk About It!

In British culture especially, we tend to shy away from conversations about death or grief, but we know how important it is to talk about those that we miss having around us. When crafting memorials for people, we find that individuals want the space to be able to express how they are feeling at a time of grief – so remember to continue having those difficult conversations; even at Christmas time. You could open with a memory, reflect on your feelings of missing somebody or intentionally ask others around you how they are feeling at this time to pave way for honest conversation.

Tangible Reminders

While there is no right or wrong way to express or experience grief, sometimes having a more tangible reminder can be a way of acknowledging your grief. Something might immediately jump out as to what that might be for you, but if not – here are a few ideas.

A chosen decoration or something engraved may provide a gentle reminder of somebody special. Below you can see pictured a snowglobe that one of our team keeps out all year round, but it takes a more prominant place at Christmas as a reminder of their Nana. Certain foods or songs can also be beautiful ways of introducing your memories to Christmas time without them being upsetting. For example, we know individuals who recreate a specific pudding their parents made at Christmas to honour their lives in a subtle but tangible way.

As memorial specialists, we have also crafted numerous bespoke memorials that allows individuals, families and communties to create a tribute that celebrates a loved one. Whether for a home memorial or a final resting place, many find a memorial to be a special way of celebrating the life of a loved one.

Tangible Memories and Memorials | Making Space for Grief at Christmas by UK Memorials

Making Space In Nature

Surround yourself with life by making space in nature. If you’ve followed along with us (or our sister company, The Sign Maker) for a while now, you’ll know that we love keeping an eye on the local wildlife. We know there to be numerous benefits from spending time out in nature; from lowering stress to creating a space to remain in the present moment, finding your way outside this Christmas might give you the breathing space necesary to grieve in a way that isn’t so overwhelming.

They say ‘Robins appear when loved one’s are near’, so maybe try and spot their vibrant redbreast on a wintery walk. Perhaps you find the same sense of hope in the appearance of a rainbow that we do. It might be that you’d enjoy a wander along the beach, or a moment in a local garden. There are infinate tiny snapshots of nature to find and explore, and our hope would be that making this space is somewhat restorative to you too.

Make Space In Nature - Robin and Rainbow | Making Space for Grief at Christmas by UK Memorials

Surround Yourself With Support and Community

Experiencing grief can be challenging enough without trying to do it all alone. Grief can have a way of making us feel isolated, so knowing where you can find support and communtiy could make all the difference. One charity that we always recommend is Cruse. Cruse are the UK’s leading Bereavement charity offering a helpful website, national helpline and even counselling sessions. Their helpline will be open across various hours throughout the festive period, so if you’re looking for support from trained volunteers who can come alongside you at this time – we’d recommend looking in to the support that they offer. The good grief trust also have some great resources that you might like to make use of.

As a result of the pandemic, online communites are also more prominent than ever before. It might be that you’re not looking specifically to talk about your grief, but are instead looking for a communtiy to share this time with. For the past few years, Sarah Millican has been hosting #JoinIn – a virtual campaign for strangers to connect internationally in online spaces. Last year in particular, the feedback was that this was a friendly outreach campaign, so it might be that something like this brings you a little comfort this year.

Click Here for Bereavement Support | Click Here to #JoinIn with Sarah Millican on Christmas Day

Allow Yourself To Feel All Your Feelings

Last, but not least, remember that it is okay to feel multiple things at once. It is possible to both feel and acknowledge grief while still experiencing moments of joy. The two need not be mutually exclusive – it is okay to let a little Christmas magic in no matter what other feelings you experience across this festive season. This might bring up some challenges of it’s own (for instance, feelings of guilt or a heightened sense of grief from time to time), however it serves as a good reminder that life is both beautiful and painful all at the same time.

We’d like to wish you a very Merry Christmas from our whole team here at UK Memorials, and we hope that these little reminders prove helpful no matter the time of year. If there is anything that we can do to support you from a memorial perspective, then please do get in touch and our team will get back to you in the new year.

Telephone: 01769 561355 | Email: sales@uk-memorials.net | https://linktr.ee/thesignmaker

Remembering Loved Ones with Photo Memorials

Posted on by Kate

Why Choose a Photo Memorial?

Memorials are often used to mark a resting place or to honour the life of someone who has passed away. Given the sentiment of these pieces, photo memorials have grown in popularity over the past few years, particularly due to the advances in technology and crafting techniques. We find that people cherish being able to design a memorial with personality, allowing memorials to be a better reflection of who someone really was to them – and often these pieces will include a photo. 

Etched Photo Memorials

Etched photo memorials are ideal if you are looking a budget-friendly photo memorial. The etching processes vary depending on the material, but ultimately etching is an application of pressure that forms patterns within the surface of a material. 

Brass is known to be a traditional choice for a memorial – however brass photo memorials are increasing in popularity too. The photos and text for these memorials are chemically etched into the brass. This process produces some incredible results, leaving sharp, clean lines and a high-quality image. It is this quality finish that preserves brass’ place as a much-loved material for memorial pieces. 

The natural appearance of wooden memorials is attractive to many. Some find a wooden plaque to be a less formal option than the traditional use of brass or stone. The laser engraving process involves the lettering and images being burnt into the wood, leaving a stunning etched effect for these photo memorials. We have crafted several memorials like this, including portraits of both people and pets. These unique pieces make fitting tributes for loved ones that we have lost. 

Lasered photo memorials on natural wood are a popular choice here at UK Memorials.

Stainless Steel is a stand out choice for a memorial due to it being a material of superb quality. Again, through the chemical etching process, a black and white photo can be added to these pieces (you can submit a black and white photo, or ask our talented design team to convert a coloured photo for you). Unlike printed photo memorials, this image will not fade, which is a definite advantage of choosing stainless steel. 

Choose a stainless steel photo memorial crafted here at UK Memorials.
Stainless Steel

Finally, aluminium is another great choice of material with its smart finish and elegant look. The photos are lasered into the material and come out very well.

Our lasered aluminium memorials are a great budget-friendly option for photo memorials.
Lasered Aluminium

Impact Engraved Memorials

This process is used on our granite memorial and is created when a Diamond bit is impacted upon the granite to make an image. This can then be left natural or be painted. It is a choice that is growing in popularity due to its uniqueness. 

Our new method of impact engraving is an excellent option for photo memorials on granite.
Impact Engraving on Granite Memorials

Porcelain Plaques:

Our photo memorial plaques are made from vitreous porcelain using ceramic pigments which are fade resistant. We produce these pieces in various shapes and sizes, enabling you to be creative with the design of a porcelain plaque. Once finalised, the photo memorial is fired at 860˚, making the piece durable. Our porcelain photo memorial plaques also come in a small range of different colours, which can be a lovely touch to experiment with.

Porcelain plaques are a traditional photo memorial choice.
Porcelain Plaques on Wooden Crosses

Printed Memorials

Printed memorials are a wonderful way to pay tribute to a loved one. Some find the inclusion of a full-colour photo to be an important part of remembering someone through their memorial – which is why we offer several types of printed memorials. 

Anodised aluminium has a reputation for being tough! It is that toughness that makes the anoprinted Aluminium memorials last a lifetime. The image is locked within a hard layer, preventing any damage from being able to come to the memorial itself (ideal if you’re looking for an outdoor memorial that may be at risk of vandalism). These pieces can be designed with either a silver or gold background (though we would recommend silver alongside images). We believe anoprinting to be the toughest kind of full print finish around, which is why this process creates memorials truly fit for purpose. 

Anodised Aluminium memorials are another excellent choice.
Anodised Aluminium

An alternative is the full colour printed memorial. Given the advances in technology, and the popularity of digital photographs, people seem to treasure being able to celebrate their loved ones with a full-colour photo memorial plaque. These full-colour photos can be set into a material of your choosing (wood, slate, granite or corian), or they can stand alone. These pieces look particularly special when mounted on a wooden backing board. We have been privileged to make a number of these pieces, some of which you can see below. 

Tough print photo memorials are an excellent choice for full colour memorials.
Tough Print Photo Memorials

Who Are We and What Can We Do For You

Uk Memorials is a family run business with over 20 years of experience crafting high-quality, bespoke signage and memorials. We have experience crafting a wide range of bespoke pieces, utilising various materials and techniques. Our team is specialised in their own areas of craftsmanship, producing excellent results, and our customer services team can assist you at every stage of your experience with us. We are thoughtful about our approach, ensuring that you receive exactly what you are looking for. 

If you have any questions or queries, we would love to hear from you!

Telephone – 01769 561355 

Email – Sales@sign-maker.net

Website – https://uk-memorials.net/ 

Online shop –  https://www.sign-maker.co.uk/photo-memorials-300-c.asp 

Remembrance Day

Posted on by Kate

We Will Remember Them

We make war memorials in a whole range of different materials for long-lasting and poignant tributes.

As we come up to this season of remembrance, here at UK Memorials we wanted to take the opportunity to write and reflect at this time of year. Remembrance is a national opportunity to mark the anniversary of Armistice Day and to recognise the sacrifices made by many to protect the freedom that we have today. 

We understand and appreciate how challenging it can be to make decisions around the memorial of those that we have lost, so we want to make this process as easy as possible for you, while still creating something special and significant. Whether looking for a traditional plaque, wooden cross or a modern heart-shaped memorial, we create a wide range of memorials and believe it is important that they are carefully crafted for you. To help with this process, we have created this simple guide of some of the most popular memorials that we can put together alongside you, as you remember your loved ones. 

Cast Memorial Plaques

Cast memorial signs have a long-lasting finish and are made using a combination of the latest technology and traditional craftsmanship methods The cast making process gives you more freedom in the designing process because you can choose from a wider variety of fonts, motifs, layouts and stylistic lettering. Once cast, your plaque will then be tended to by hand and given the final finesse that you’re looking for. 

Cast bronze is a timeless classic for memorial plaques. The background of the bronze can be left natural or painted in. Patented bronze is also an option available at UK Memorials which would give your memorial plaque a finish to be proud of. The Cast Bronze Memorial Plaques can be made in a variety of shapes too (another benefit of choosing a cast sign). A popular choice for memorial plaques is the cast bronze memorial heart. A cheaper alternative is the cast aluminium memorial signs, still a traditional choice but possibly more cost-effective. Either way, both would create a wonderful piece to help mark your remembrance for a loved one. You can learn more about our cast memorials here.

Corian 

Corian is a stone-like material with a clean composition, made up from clear acrylic resin, natural minerals and pigments – meaning that it is available in a variety of colours. Corian has a high-quality finish that would make a beautiful tribute to your loved one in a memorial. You can find more about our corian memorials here.

Memorial Crosses

At UK Memorials, we make a range of wooden crosses that are particularly popular around remembrance. Wooden crosses were first used to mark the graves of soldiers who had died in battle but they now serve as a remembrance sign nationally. They are handmade traditionally using Oak timber but could also be made for you in Iroko, Opepe or Sapele. The lettering can be engraved directly into the wood. Alternatively, you could choose to have a metal plaque created. Though more expensive than the wooden crosses we make, stone-like Corian also makes beautiful and distinctive memorial crosses. They tend to last longer and can be used as either a grave marker or a permanent memorial. Memorial crosses continue to be a popular choice here at UK Memorials and we’d love to make one for you and you’re loved one too. Have a look at our full range of memorial crosses.

Wooden Plaques 

Here at UK Memorials, we believe that a memorial piece should be personal. That is why we create a range of unique memorial signs and plaques to help you mark your loved ones resting place or a memorable and special location. 

The engraved wooden plaques are a favourite of ours, particularly the wooden hearts. Using beautiful timbers followed by specialist care and treatment, these plaques have a high quality and long-lasting finish – we take great care to make these memorials perfect for you. We can include motifs and images on these memorial signs enabling you to be expressive and creative in your designs. There is a wide range of fonts to choose from too, and any additional fixtures, fittings or mount you require can be included too. The memorial hearts are also available in a range of different materials too. Learn more about our range of wooden memorials.

Photo Memorials

Our long-lasting and high quality full-colour memorial plaques are becoming increasingly popular too. The plaques have a long-lasting resistance to colour fading as a result of the completely encapsulated aluminium plate. These types of memorial plaques are even suitable in harsher weather conditions, for example, by the coast. The photo memorials can be portrait or landscape and are typically finished with gloss or satin as to your preferences. We think these make beautiful memorials that capture moments in time with their photos and are a long-lasting piece to remember a lost loved one. Have a look at our full range of photo options here.

The acts of so many selfless individuals will never be forgotten, which is why here at UK Memorials, we want to ensure that we create memorials that reflect their courage and bravery and our respect for them. Memorials are an important part of remembering any loved one that we have lost, in the war or otherwise. War memorials act as a tangible reminder of the fragility of life and what was sacrificed, and memorials generally are a reminder of the love between family, friends and even strangers. Life connects us in ways that cannot be put into words and therefore memorials of those we have lost, connect us again in celebrations and recognitions of those we have shared life with. This Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, we will remember them. 

To learn more about our range of war memorials, click here.

Buy Now

Please do get in touch if we can help you design a memorial. We are here to help you and will enable you to design exactly what it is that you’re looking for. More information can be found on our website and online shop, and we’d love to hear from you. 

Telephone – 01769 561355

Email – Sales@sign-maker.net

Website – https://uk-memorials.net/

Corian Crosses

Posted on by Kate

A memorial cross is a meaningful way to remember a loved one and here at UK Memorials we make a range of different memorial crosses. One of our less traditional cross options is our Corian crosses.

Since Corian is one of the lesser-known materials that we use, we thought we’d explain a bit more about what Corian is and why it could make an ideal choice for a memorial cross.

Beautiful, long-lasting corian memorial crosses crafted at UK Memorials.

What is Corian?

Corian is a manufactured material composed of 66% natural minerals derived from a type of sedimentary rock called bauxite ore and 33% acrylic polymer (resin). Put more simply, it is a mix of natural stone dust and synthetic resin. Despite being manufactured, Corian actually looks and feels very similar to natural stone. It is cold to the touch and available in many colours and patterns to make it appear like its natural stone counterparts, such as slate, granite, and marble.

Other features of Corian include the fact that it is non-toxic, non-allergenic, and has received certifications for its environmental performance, such as the SCS (Scientific Certification Systems) certification for recycled materials. These are important features for us here at UK Memorials as our ethos is to protect the environment so when thinking about how to create our memorial crosses we strive to source environmentally-friendly materials. Our Corian crosses won’t pollute the ground or nearby water sources, vegetation, and wildlife.

Why choose Corian?

The main benefit of Corian is it’s durability. It is longer-lasting than more traditional choices for memorial crosses, such as wood, and it wont stain easily or lose its visual appearance for decades. Corian also has low moisture absorption and is resistant to humidity, freeze-thaw conditions, and environmental pollutants, meaning our crosses are suitable for all elements.

Another benefit of our Corian crosses is the fact that they are virtually maintenance-free. Unlike some other materials, Corian doesn’t need to be treated regularly and its smooth surface can be easily wiped clean if it comes into contact with dirt or soil.

Visually, our Corian crosses are completely smooth with no flaws, where other materials, such as natural stones will have natural grains and markings. Whilst some people find these imperfections interesting, for those that want a clean, flawless memorial, Corian crosses are definitely the better choice.

Our Selection of Corian Crosses

We make our Corian crosses on-site in two different styles: ‘The Standard Memorial Cross’ and ‘The Celtic Cross’. Our standard cross style is a simple and traditional cross shape, while our Celtic cross is more elaborate and decorative. Both styles can be made in a variety of colours and sizes ranging from small to large.

High quality memorial crosses made from corian at UK Memorials.

Our designers have access to a large range of fonts and images and will work with you to create the perfect design for your cross. Once your layout is agreed on by yourself, we laser engrave your design onto the cross and fill it with paint. For lighter coloured Corian crosses, we recommend black, brown, dark green, and blue paint, whereas white, light grey, gold, and silver letter colours are recommended for slate grey Corian.

Further Information

For more information on our Corian crosses click here or if you want to browse the rest of our memorial range, click here.

Corian in Crematoria

Posted on by Kate

Corian is a great material for memorials

Versatile and cost-effective, Corian memorials are the modern choice for lasting tributes.

It might not be the favourite topic of conversation but planning ahead for the future is something we all must consider. This isn’t just for family income or funeral arrangement purposes. It’s about having the choice in advance for your wishes to be documented and respected so when the time comes to carry out your chosen lifetime tributes, they are followed sensitively and compassionately, honouring your choices as closely as possible.

Depending on your wishes, the costs can sometimes mount quite quickly with funeral preparations generating unforeseen expenses which could create an unexpected burden for loved ones in addition to their loss. This is one of the reasons why we offer a choice of cost-sensitive materials to help create long-lasting signs, plaques and memorials for remembering family, friends and pets.

High quality, corian memorials made by craftsmen at The Sign Maker.

A wider choice of materials.

Time has moved on from traditional granite or slate tombstones being the only hard-wearing, long-lasting material available. There is a much wider choice of materials today than ever before. When visiting church graveyards and crematorium gardens, you’ll find the grounds are populated with gravestones and memorial plaques made from a variety of modern materials.

From wooden crosses to engraved plaques made from brass, stainless steel or aluminium, there is a large selection of hard-wearing natural and man-made materials to help create a special place for loved ones to visit and somewhere permanent to reminisce, remember special moments and leave flowers and gifts.

One of the most popular materials in recent years for creating contemporary memorials is Corian, a versatile and durable man-made material developed in the 1960s. Corian is used in a variety of industries and its key qualities are found within its ability to withstand exposure to the elements all year round.

Despite its original purpose to provide a heat-resistant, mould-resistant, scratch-resistant worktop surface in kitchens and bathrooms, Corian has firmly established itself as an extremely functional and affordable alternative to granite. In appearance, Corian is very similar to granite and stone dust is actually used in the manufacturing process.

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Bespoke memorials, made here at The Sign Maker in North Devon.

A unique, environmentally friendly material.

The unique surface of Corian resists fading, scratches and stains. It can be sculpted into many forms and engraved with words or pictures. It is suitable for indoor or outdoor use and is weatherproof against damage caused by the sun, the wind and the rain.

Another reason why Corian is particularly popular is the way this man-made material is created from sustainable and renewable sources. Corian is made from a mixture of acrylic resin, natural minerals and pigments. It has the cold-to-touch feel of real stone as well as the matt finish and substantial weight. Corian is an environmentally friendly material designed to last for many decades, without impacting on its surroundings.

With funeral, burial and crematory costs rising, Corian is a preferred choice for engraved signs, nameplates and tree markers. The finished memorial has the appearance of a traditional stone memorial but without the variation in composition, flaws or cracks.

The surface is renewable and suitable for making additions or alterations. You may wish to have favourite quotes, memorable sayings or pictures taken from illustrations or photographs, inscribed in the Corian surface.

Feel confident when you purchase a corian memorial from The Sign Maker.

Memorials for pets and people.

A Corian memorial is as suitable for pets as well as humans and there has been a recent increase in the number of requests for Corian plaques for woodland and garden use as well as in church graveyards and cemeteries.

Corian memorials and Corian plaques are cost-effective, durable and versatile. They are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor tributes to loved ones. You can browse examples of our work online and we would be happy to discuss designs with you to help create a thoughtful, long-lasting tribute that will withstand the weather and offer a special place to relive cherished memories.

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If you would like any more information or would like us to put a quote together please do not hesitate to contact us using any of the methods below:

Tel – 01769 561355
Email – Sales@sign-maker.net
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Wooden Crosses

Posted on by Kate

Everything you need to know about Wooden Crosses

Here at UK Memorials, we have highly skilled carpenters onsite who spend time creating quality wooden crosses. They are often used for a variety of reasons, from grave markers before the headstone is set, as a memorial in a garden or used for woodland burials. Our wooden crosses come in six different sizes ranging from small to XX- large. They are usually made from traditional oak but can be made from our other timbers too which include the likes of Iroko, Sapele and more. At UK Memorials we feel it is important that each cross is bespoke and unique, that is why we provide an abundance of choice.

The Design

With designers onsite and a huge selection of fonts and images to choose you can have a truly unique wooden cross. Take a look at the fonts and images and send us in some information around what you might like. Then let our designer create a beautiful proof for your approval. Not quite happy with the look, no problem we can switch up the font, layout and image to meet your satisfaction. Only until you are 100% happy with the design will we go into production.

High-quality, bespoke wooden crosses made by craftsmen at UK Memorials.

Additional Plaques

Although many of our customers choose to have the wording lasered directly onto the wooden cross, others have opted to have a plaque. You can choose from a variety of engraved plaques including brass which is very traditional. Lasered Acrylic laminate for a long-lasting plaque that is also budget-friendly or a bronze plaque for a more luxurious finish. A couple of our customers have opted for something completely different such as a rustic slate lasered and mounted onto the cross.

Bespoke wooden crosses with additional plaques created by UK Memorials.

Further Information

Regardless of what style or look you opt for, you can be assured that when you purchase from UK Memorials you will receive excellent customer service and a high-quality product to match. If you would like more information on these wooden crosses be sure to get in touch using any of the methods below:

Tel – 01769 561355
Email – sales@uk-memorials.net

Beautiful wooden memorial crosses by UK Memorials.
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