Find the Right Stone for Your Project
Explore our selection of natural soapstone and alabaster blocks for carving. Choose from available sizes or request a custom-cut block based on your project requirements.
Types of Stone
Soapstone
Soapstone is a soft, natural carving stone that is easy to shape with hand tools. It is ideal for beginners, students, hobby carvers and artists looking for a smooth, workable material. Colours may vary from green and grey to brown and mixed tones, with natural veining throughout each piece.
Alabaster
Alabaster is a beautiful natural stone known for its smooth texture and light, translucent appearance. It is slightly harder than soapstone and is well suited for sculptural projects, decorative pieces and more experienced carvers. Colours are typically white, cream or lightly veined, giving each block a unique finish.
Bulk Stone Order
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Stone Carving Resources
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Blog posts
What Makes Soapstone So Easy to Carve?
Soapstone is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly carving materials thanks to its natural softness, smooth texture, and predictable carving behaviour. Learn why artists, teachers, and first-time carvers love working with this unique stone.
When it comes to sculpting, the choice of carving stone can greatly impact the outcome of your masterpiece. Let's explore some of the most popular stones used for sculpture and compare their key characteristics.
FAQs
What is the best stone for a beginner?
I recommend starting with a "soft" stone, a hardness of 2 or less. Some of the better known options are Soapstone (browns and greens) , Alabaster (white, translucent) and Chlorite (black). Even through they are not as durable as harder stone, these options will allow you to complete your project relatively easily. Once you have succeeded with a softer stone there are many options for mid and hard stones to try.
What tools do I need to start?
I recommend starting simple, for a softer stone you can do everything with common hand tools. Use a hacksaw to cut off sections, use a wood rasp to shape the stone, for bigger pieces, a light club hammer and coal chisel to chip off pieces. Please wear safety glasses if using chisels.
How do I carve stone safely?
Dust control: For small carving projects like our carving kits, it is best to use water when shaping and sanding the stone. This eliminates all dry and airborne dust. So it is safe for all ages and to do indoors. For larger stone blocks, it is best to wear a dust mask, use a vacuum system or work outdoors. Do not carve stones with high silica content (like granite, sandstone) unless you use water. Also wear safety glasses, gloves and safety shoes if working with larger blocks.