1. Be Prepared

You may have to deal with weeds, thorny vines, poison oak or ivy, or trees, as well as ants, spiders, bees, and possibly snakes. Heavy clothing, high leather shoes or boots, and insect repellent are advisable.

2. What to Bring

	Rubbing kit
	One or more gallons of water, depending on how many stones you will be rubbing. Clean plastic milk jugs are excellent for this purpose.
	Rain gear
	Plastic tarp to cover you and your work in case it rains
	Garden clippers, hand trowels, and pruners may be useful.
	Old towels

3. Get Permission

	Some cemeteries do not allow rubbings.
	Some cemeteries are on private property.

4. Select the Stone

	Choose sturdy stones with sharply incised areas.
	Don't choose a stone with an obvious crack. The pressure of rubbing could make it break.
	Don't choose a stone if you rub your finger over it and feel loose grains.

5. Prepare the Stone

	Gently brush away any loose material or dust from stone surface with a natural bristle brush.
	Cleaning will only be necessary if biological growth interferes with the rubbing surface or fills in incised areas. Clean as follows:

1. Thoroughly wet stone with clean water.
2. Gently brush away biological growth with natural bristle brush. Use small brush to clean incised areas. Never use a wire brush or other metal object.
3. Thoroughly rinse stone with clean water.
4. Pat stone dry with a towel.

6. Begin Your Rubbing

	Use enough paper to thoroughly cover the area you intend to rub.
	Fasten paper to the stone surface with tape supplied or masking tape. Stretch the paper very tight. Do not use duct tape as it will leave a residue on the stone surface.
	Feel the outer edges of the stone and design and begin by defining the edges and prominent designs. Then start your rubbing at the top of the stone. Use the rounded side of the heel ball or a wax crayon on its side. Use great care to avoid getting wax on the stone surface.
	Always rub from side to side using even pressure. Continue until the entire surface has been covered. If necessary repeat the process using slightly more pressure to achieve the desired results.
	Brace your free hand against the back of the stone as you work to counter your pressure and prevent possible damage.
	Remove the rubbing and tape from the stone.
	Remove the tape from your rubbing and discard in an appropriate receptacle.

7. Finally

Identify your rubbing on the back with the following:

1. Name of cemetery
2. Location of cemetery including directions if necessary
3. Location of stone in cemetery
4. Date of rubbing
5. Your name and address

Roll your rubbing and place in tube for transport home.