Tools

Although the art of dry stone walling uses only that of raw stone excavated from the ground, a waller has many tools they use to help manipulate the stone to create sturdy and appealing features with it.

Hand tools and hammers are used for splitting, shaping and trimming stone. Whether roughing out large sculptures or splitting boulders for a traditional stone wall, the tools are used essentially the same way. Steel blade hand held tools are suitable for softer stone or light-duty use. Carbide-tipped hand tools are recommended for harder stones and will last longer with less maintenance.

Carbide-Tipped Hand Tools

Tip 1. A tracer is used to split stone. Move your tracer back and forth along the split line, strike it until the stine splits. Hold it vertically to the stone.

Tip 2. Trim and square your stone by tipping your hand set slightly back onto it's edge and striking it along your line. When your blade becomes dull, turn and use the other edge.

Tip 3. Use a hand point to remove high spots by striking at different angles around the area to be removed. For granite or other hard stone, hold the hand point vertically for the first strike. This tool is also perfect for roughing out. Remember to trim the striking head and sharpen the blade regularly for safe and efficient use.

Images and Tips used on this page provided by:
DERUSHA Supply Inc.
North America's Most Complete Equipement & Supply Center