How We Work
A clear, engineer-led production process from your idea to finished stone
Our process
Share Your Design or Idea
Share a drawing, sketch, reference image, or a clear description of your idea. We will review it and confirm the information needed for the next step.
Free Consultation & Assessment
We review your design, assess feasibility, and discuss material options and production methods with you. We provide honest feedback: what is achievable, what the limitations are, and an estimate of production timeline and cost. This consultation is free and carries no obligation.
Quotation & Confirmation
Once the production approach is agreed, we prepare a detailed quotation covering the scope of work, material requirements, production method, and estimated completion date. Production begins after your confirmation. We do not provide a public price calculator because every project is different.
Design File Preparation
Your approved design is converted into production-ready digital files. This includes pattern optimisation, tool path generation for the chosen production method, and material nesting to minimise waste. For waterjet projects, we prepare the cutting path. For CNC and laser work, we program the engraving parameters.
Material Selection & Preparation
Stone material is selected and inspected. You may provide your own stone slabs, or we can source material based on your requirements. Each slab is checked for cracks, veins, and colour consistency before being loaded for production.
Precision Production
Your project enters production using the agreed method: waterjet cutting, CNC engraving, stone carving, or laser surface engraving. An experienced operator manages each production run, monitoring accuracy and surface quality throughout. For larger or multi-part projects, pieces are tracked against the production plan.
Finishing & Quality Inspection
Completed pieces go through finishing: edge treatment, surface cleaning, and any agreed surface finishing. Each piece is inspected against the original design specifications before it is approved for handoff. We check dimensions, edge quality, surface finish, colour consistency, and overall appearance.
Review, Handoff & Delivery Coordination
The finished work is reviewed against the agreed design before handoff. Collection, transport, and installation arrangements are confirmed separately for each project; on-site installation is not provided directly by iStone.
What We Need From You
The more complete your design input, the faster we can move to production. However, we are experienced at working from partial information and helping you fill the gaps.
Design File or Sketch
A clear drawing, measured sketch, or reference image is a useful starting point. We will confirm any additional production information after review.
Stone Type Preference
Share the stone you intend to use, or the visual character you want to achieve. Suitability is reviewed for the specific design before production.
Dimensions & Quantities
Provide the overall dimensions of your project and the quantity of pieces needed. For multi-part projects like flooring, include the layout or total area to be covered.
Installation Context
Where will the stone be installed? Interior wall, exterior façade, floor, wet area? This affects material selection, thickness, edge detailing, and surface treatment recommendations.
Production Methods We Use
Waterjet Cutting
Our primary production method, used to translate intricate patterns, inlays, medallions, and custom architectural shapes into stone with considered control.
CNC Engraving
Computer-controlled rotary engraving for text, calligraphy, logos, and shallow relief patterns. Consistent depth, repeatable results, ideal for multi-piece architectural projects.
Stone Carving & Relief
Traditional techniques combined with modern tooling. Deep relief, sculptural elements, architectural ornamentation. Each piece is individually assessed for the best production approach.
Laser Surface Engraving
Laser marking on marble and stone surfaces for photographic imagery, fine graphics, and permanent surface marking. A surface process - not for cutting through stone.
Handoff & Installation Boundary
iStone is a specialist stone production partner. Our direct scope covers design preparation and the agreed workshop production. On-site installation is arranged independently and remains outside the direct service offered by iStone.
Installation and handoff arrangements should be confirmed before production begins.
Start Your Project
Ready to begin? Send us your design idea and we will take it through our process - from first consultation to finished stone.