Hand Engraving Portfolio
Explore the art of hand engraving at Heirloom Ink Studio, from one-of-a-kind studio commissions to on-site personalization for brand activations, corporate events, and weddings in St. Louis and beyond.
See Engraving in Action
There’s something especially satisfying about watching a blank surface become a truly one-of-a-kind keepsake. Every keepsake I engrave is personalized entirely by hand, using a small handheld engraving tool to bring my hand lettering and calligraphy to life directly onto the surface. The result is a lasting detail that feels as personal as the process behind it.
From Calligraphy to Hand Engraving
I’ve always loved the art of beautiful lettering, so when I first discovered hand engraving, I knew almost immediately that it was something I wanted to learn. It gave me an entirely new way to use calligraphy and hand-lettering skills I already loved, this time on surfaces and keepsakes that could be enjoyed for years to come.
I began engraving in 2023 and quickly fell in love with the process. Since then, I’ve hand engraved thousands (yes, thousands) of keepsakes for clients across the United States and beyond, from meaningful personal gifts and wedding details to pieces personalized for guests at live events.
My signature lettering style falls somewhere between traditional Copperplate and modern calligraphy; elegant and flowing, but not overly formal. I also work in block lettering when the commission or event calls for it. No matter the style, my goal is always the same: to create lettering that feels thoughtfully suited to the piece it becomes a part of.
Consider it Engravable
What Can Be Hand Engraved?
Hand engraving is incredibly versatile and can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, including glass, metal, acrylic, ceramic, and more. From delicate keepsakes to everyday items, engraving can add a permanent, hand-lettered detail to pieces in all kinds of shapes, sizes and styles.
Some of my favorite pieces to engrave include glassware, wine and spirits bottles, candles, cake cutting sets, perfume bottles, compact mirrors, lipstick cases, hair accessories, and more.
Have something else in mind? I’m always happy to determine whether its material and finish are suitable for hand engraving. Feel free to reach out!
Two Ways to Experience Hand Engraving
IN-STUDIO ENGRAVING
Designed for meaningful gifts, keepsakes, and special occasions, in-studio engraving transforms your chosen pieces with custom hand-lettered details created just for you. From names and dates to sentimental messages, each engraving is designed to complement the occasion.
LIVE ENGRAVING
Live engraving brings personalized keepsakes and an interactive experience directly to your guests, with each piece engraved by hand on-site at weddings, brand activations, corporate events, and private gatherings throughout the St. Louis area and beyond.
"Alishia and her team ensured that all of our partners had a lovely experience receiving engraved water bottles, luggage tags, and pet collars. We haven't stopped getting emails from our Purina partners about how much they loved the event!"
— Sofia, Pinterest x Purina Event
Let’s Create Something Meaningful
From one-of a kind keepsakes to live event experiences, hand engraving brings a personal touch to the moments and keepsakes worth remembering. If you have an idea in mind, I’d love to hear about it!