The Different Types of Stonemasons: Understanding the Craft Behind the Stone

The Different Types of Stonemasons: Understanding the Craft Behind the Stone

Stonemasonry is one of the oldest and most respected trades in the world—responsible for everything from ancient temples to cathedrals, castles, and memorials. But did you know there are different types of stonemasons, each specialising in a particular area of the craft?

In this article, we’ll explore the main roles within traditional and modern stonemasonry: memorial masons, carver masons, banker masons, and fixer masons—what they do, and where their skills are used.

1. Memorial Mason

Memorial masons specialise in creating and installing gravestones, headstones, and commemorative monuments. Their work often includes lettering, inscriptions, and sometimes ornamental carving.

Key Skills:

• Precise carving and engraving (often by hand or with modern CNC tools)

• Working with polished stone like granite or marble

• Sensitivity to personal and cultural needs

Where You’ll See Their Work:

• Cemeteries and churchyards

• War memorials and civic monuments

• Custom engraved plaques and tributes

Memorial masons must balance craftsmanship with empathy, helping families commemorate loved ones with dignity and care.

2. Carver Mason

Carver masons are true artists of stone, focusing on detailed ornamental work—everything from gargoyles and capitals to intricate floral patterns and heraldry.

Key Skills:

• High-level sculptural carving by hand

• Deep understanding of historic styles (Gothic, Romanesque, Classical, etc.)

• Working with traditional tools like chisels and mallets

Where You’ll See Their Work:

• Historic buildings and cathedrals

• Restoration of damaged architectural details

• New commissions in heritage-style builds

Carver masons bring life to stone, and their work is often the most visually striking part of any building.

3. Banker Mason

The banker mason is the backbone of the workshop. Their job is to shape rough stone into precise blocks for construction or architectural use, often working from detailed templates or drawings.

Key Skills:

• Accurate measuring, cutting, and shaping of stone

• Reading architectural plans and templates

• Using saws, chisels, and modern cutting equipment

Where You’ll See Their Work:

• Masonry workshops or yards (the ‘bank’ refers to the workbench)

• Supplying dressed stone for site installation

• Preparing bespoke features like lintels, window surrounds, or steps

Banker masons often collaborate closely with carvers and fixers, ensuring the stonework is ready to go.

4. Fixer Mason

Fixer masons are responsible for installing stone on site. They work on scaffolds, façades, and buildings of all types—lifting and fixing stone into place with precision.

Key Skills:

• Knowledge of load-bearing principles and stone fixing methods

• Using mortar, cramps, dowels, and resins for secure installation

• Working safely and efficiently on-site, often with cranes or lifting gear

Where You’ll See Their Work:

• Historic building restorations

• New builds using traditional stone

• Installing architectural features prepared by banker masons

Fixer masons bring the final vision to life, assembling the stonework that others have prepared.

Why This Matters

Understanding the different types of stonemasons helps appreciate the skill and teamwork involved in every traditional building. At Salthouse Stonemasonry, we respect each area of the trade—because true craftsmanship lies not just in one skill, but in how they all work together.

Whether you’re restoring a church, repairing a heritage home, or commissioning a bespoke carving, choosing the right specialist is key.

Need Advice or Expertise?

We’re always happy to talk stone. Whether you need carving, fixing, or stone supply, we’ve got the experience and passion to help bring your vision to life.

Contact Salthouse Stonemasonry today to discuss your project.

email : info@salthousestonemasonry.co.uk