Architectural Stone Drawing Guide

Architectural Stone Drawing and Cutting List Guide

Accurate drawings are essential for successful custom limestone manufacturing.

Architectural stone drawings communicate:

Product dimensions
Stone thickness
Surface finishes
Finished faces
Edge profiles
Joint widths
Curved geometry
Fixing preparation
Installation orientation
Piece references
Quantities
Project locations
Revision status

DMR Limestone manufactures standard and custom Turkish limestone products according to approved:

Architectural drawings
Stone shop drawings
Stone schedules
Cutting lists
Façade-panel schedules
Pool plans
Staircase drawings
Interior elevations
Landscape plans
CAD files
BIM exports
Three-dimensional models
Physical templates
Approved samples
Full-size mock-ups

This guide explains how to prepare clear manufacturing information for:

Limestone façade panels
Exterior wall cladding
Interior wall panels
Flooring
Exterior paving
Pool coping
Stair components
Window sills
Door surrounds
Fireplace surrounds
Wall caps
Pier caps
Columns
Capitals
Balustrades
Arches
Cornices
Curved limestone
Carved architectural elements
Custom signs
Cut-to-size products

Clear and coordinated drawings can help reduce:

Production errors
Site cutting
Material waste
Installation delays
Incorrect profiles
Missing pieces
Packaging confusion
Revision conflicts

Why Architectural Stone Drawings Matter

Natural stone products are often manufactured before they arrive at the construction site.

Unlike materials that can be easily adjusted on site, custom limestone may require:

Precision cutting
CNC machining
Curved fabrication
Edge profiling
Drilling
Grooving
Rebating
Anchor preparation
Carving
Hand finishing
Piece numbering
Special packaging

A missing dimension or unclear drawing note may affect:

Product geometry
Quantity
Surface finish
Installation
Joint alignment
Panel weight
Packing
Delivery programme

Manufacturing information should therefore be complete, coordinated and formally approved.

Drawing Information Required for Stone Manufacturing

Every stone drawing should clearly identify:

Project name
Project location
Client or contractor reference
Drawing title
Drawing number
Revision number
Revision date
Drawing status
Scale
Measurement units
Product code
Material name
Surface finish
Stone thickness
Finished dimensions
Finished faces
Edge profiles
Joint dimensions
Installation orientation
Quantity
Related drawing references
Approval status

Drawings should avoid relying on assumptions.

Drawing Status

Every drawing should show whether it is:

Preliminary
For coordination
For approval
Approved
Issued for construction
Issued for production
Superseded
As built

Stone should be manufactured only from clearly identified, approved production information.

“Latest drawing” is not a sufficiently precise drawing status.

Measurement Units

Drawings should clearly identify whether dimensions are:

Millimetres
Centimetres
Metres
Inches
Feet and inches

DMR Limestone can manufacture according to:

Metric dimensions
Approved imperial dimensions

Projects using both systems should establish one production basis.

Metric and Imperial Coordination

Mixed-unit projects create additional risk.

For example:

20 mm is not exactly equal to 3/4 inch
30 mm is not exactly equal to 1 1/4 inch
40 mm is not exactly equal to 1 1/2 inch

The project team should confirm whether dimensions are:

Exact metric dimensions
Exact imperial dimensions
Converted dimensions
Nominal dimensions
Rounded dimensions

Approximate conversion should not replace an approved finished dimension.

Finished and Nominal Dimensions

Drawings should distinguish between:

Finished stone dimensions
Nominal module dimensions
Structural opening dimensions
Joint-inclusive dimensions
Joint-exclusive dimensions
Rough-cut dimensions
Installation dimensions

For example, a nominal 600 × 600 mm paving module may include:

590 × 590 mm finished stone
10 mm joints

or:

600 × 600 mm finished stone
Additional joints

This distinction should be clearly defined.

Joint-Inclusive Dimensions

Where a drawing shows a series of pieces, it should state whether the overall dimension includes:

Stone only
Stone and joints
Sealant joints
Movement joints
Perimeter gaps

This is particularly important for:

Pool coping
Façade panels
Staircases
Fireplace surrounds
Window frames
Modular paving
Arches
Columns

Dimension Hierarchy

Where drawings contain conflicting dimensions, the project team should identify which information controls.

Possible hierarchy may include:

Written finished dimensions
Approved cutting list
Detailed shop drawing
Architectural drawing
Drawing scale

Manufacturing should not rely on scaling from a PDF unless specifically approved.

Do Not Scale Drawings

Drawings should ideally include all required dimensions.

Scaling a drawing may create errors because of:

PDF resizing
Printing settings
Image distortion
Incorrect scale
Digital conversion
Scanning
Page cropping

Where a dimension is missing, it should be clarified rather than estimated.

Drawing Scale

Common scales may include:

1:1 for full-size profiles
1:2 for detailed components
1:5 for stone details
1:10 for assemblies
1:20 for elevations and plans
1:50 for general coordination

Even when scale is shown, critical production dimensions should be written.

Stone Material Identification

Drawings should identify the intended stone using:

Approved material name
Project material code
Supplier reference
Sample reference
Colour-range reference
Quarry or block reference where required

Avoid using only vague descriptions such as:

White stone
Beige stone
Natural stone
Light limestone

Explore:

Turkish Limestone
Limra Limestone
White Limestone
Antalya Limestone
Beige Limestone

Surface-Finish Identification

Every stone piece should have a clearly identified surface finish.

Possible finishes include:

Honed
Brushed
Sandblasted
Tumbled
Fine textured
Fluted
Grooved
Chiselled
Saw cut
Bush-hammered where suitable
Polished where suitable
Custom combined finish

Drawings may use project finish codes such as:

H1 — Fine honed
B1 — Light brushed
S1 — Fine sandblasted
T1 — Light tumbled
F1 — Narrow fluted
G1 — Decorative grooved

Each code should be linked to an approved physical sample.

Explore our Limestone Finishes Guide.

Finished Faces

Drawings should show which surfaces are visible and require finishing.

Finished faces may include:

Top face
Front face
Back face
Left side
Right side
Bottom edge
Inner curved face
Outer curved face
Return face
Exposed underside

A product may require different treatments on different faces.

For example, a pool coping piece may have:

Brushed top
Brushed front bullnose
Sawn bottom
Sawn back
Finished side edges on end pieces

Hidden and Exposed Faces

Hidden faces may still require preparation for:

Adhesive bonding
Anchors
Dowels
Kerfs
Rebates
Mechanical supports
Drainage

The drawing should not assume that all hidden surfaces remain rough unless this is acceptable.

Surface-Finish Direction

Some finishes have a visible direction.

Directional finishes may include:

Brushed surfaces
Saw-cut surfaces
Chiselled surfaces
Fluted panels
Grooved panels
Directional sandblasting

The direction should be shown using:

Arrows
Notes
Panel references
Elevation diagrams

Incorrect orientation may create visible inconsistency after installation.

Stone Thickness

Every product should include a finished thickness.

Possible thicknesses may include:

10 mm
12 mm
15 mm
20 mm
30 mm
40 mm
50 mm
Custom greater thicknesses

The appropriate thickness depends on:

Product dimensions
Material properties
Support
Traffic
Fixing method
Wind loads
Edge profiles
Curved geometry
Installation
Handling

Thickness should not be assumed from a typical product category.

Variable Thickness

Where thickness varies, drawings should identify:

Minimum thickness
Maximum thickness
Taper
Slope
Profile depth
Remaining stone section
Back-side machining

This is especially important for:

Sloped sills
Wall caps
Rebated coping
Carved panels
Rusticated façades
Mitred assemblies
Bullnose profiles
Cornices

Edge Profiles

Edge profiles should be shown using:

Enlarged sections
Full-size details
Written dimensions
Radius information
Chamfer dimensions
Reference samples

Potential profiles include:

Straight cut
Eased edge
Pencil edge
Chamfer
Bevel
Half bullnose
Full bullnose
Ogee
Rebated edge
Mitred edge
Drop face
Drip groove
Custom moulding

Bullnose Profile Drawings

A bullnose detail should identify:

Radius
Stone thickness
Profile start point
Profile end point
Flat area
Finished faces
Return conditions

“Bullnose” alone may not define the required geometry.

Chamfer and Bevel Drawings

Chamfer details should identify:

Width
Depth
Angle
Finished face
Continuity
Corner treatment

For example:

3 × 3 mm chamfer
5 × 5 mm chamfer
10 mm bevel at 45 degrees

Mitred Edge Drawings

Mitred products should show:

Mitre angle
Finished outside dimension
Individual component dimensions
Bonding faces
Joint location
Drop-face depth
Reinforcement where designed
Visible seam requirements

Mitred assemblies should not be drawn as solid stone unless they will actually be produced from solid material.

Drip-Groove Drawings

Drip grooves may be required for:

Window sills
Wall caps
Pier caps
Parapet coping
Exterior steps
Overhanging elements

The drawing should identify:

Groove width
Groove depth
Distance from edge
Groove length
End termination
Corner continuity

Rebates and Notches

Rebate drawings should identify:

Width
Depth
Length
Position
Remaining stone thickness
Internal radius
Finished surface
Installation purpose

Rebates may be used for:

Waterline tiles
Window frames
Door frames
Fixing brackets
Overflow channels
Support systems
Lighting
Drain covers

Holes and Drilling

Drilling details should identify:

Hole diameter
Hole depth
Through hole or blind hole
Centre location
Edge distance
Orientation
Quantity per piece
Tolerance
Intended fixing

Potential drilled features include:

Dowel holes
Anchor holes
Undercut holes
Lifting holes
Lighting holes
Plumbing penetrations
Sign-fixing holes

Hole Coordinates

Hole positions should be dimensioned from clear reference edges.

Avoid dimensioning holes from:

Uncontrolled natural edges
Curved profiles without reference geometry
Other holes only
Drawing scale

A coordinate datum may be useful for complex pieces.

Anchor Slots and Kerfs

Façade fixing drawings should identify:

Slot width
Slot depth
Slot length
Position
Edge distance
Orientation
Tolerance
Support or restraint function

Explore our Limestone Façade Design Guide.

CNC Stone Fabrication Files

CNC production may require:

DWG
DXF
STEP
Suitable three-dimensional formats
Vector artwork
Tool-path-ready geometry where agreed

The required file type depends on:

Product geometry
CNC machine
Two-dimensional cutting
Three-dimensional carving
Curved surfaces
Repeated patterns

Explore our CNC Stone Fabrication page.

DWG Files

DWG files should ideally include:

Clean geometry
Correct units
Named layers
Closed polylines
Clear dimensions
No duplicate lines
No unrelated project information
Clear origin point
Revision reference

DXF Files

DXF files are useful for:

Two-dimensional cutting
Profiles
Curves
Templates
Lettering outlines
Pool geometry
Custom shapes

Before sending a DXF file, confirm:

Units
Scale
Closed geometry
Line continuity
Radius accuracy
No duplicate entities

Vector Artwork

Logos, letters and decorative patterns should preferably be supplied as:

DWG
DXF
AI
EPS
SVG
Other approved vector formats

Low-resolution image files may be insufficient for precise carving.

PDF Drawings

PDF drawings are useful for:

Approval
Notes
Dimensions
Revision control
Markups
Shop-drawing review

PDF should normally accompany editable CAD information for custom production.

BIM Information

Approved BIM exports may support:

Panel schedules
Dimensions
Piece references
Quantities
Location codes
Material information
Installation zones

BIM data should be checked against approved two-dimensional details.

A model alone may not show:

Edge profiles
Finished faces
Fixing holes
Joint allowances
Manufacturing tolerances
Surface-finish direction

Three-Dimensional Models

Three-dimensional models may be useful for:

Curved façades
Carved panels
Columns
Capitals
Complex arches
Sculptural elements
Custom furniture
Reception desks
Freeform pool coping

The model should identify:

Units
Scale
Finished geometry
Stone joints
Individual pieces
Surface finish
Hollow or solid construction
Fixing preparation

Mesh and Solid Models

Where possible, solid models are generally more reliable for manufacturing than uncontrolled mesh files.

Mesh files may contain:

Open surfaces
Gaps
Irregular triangles
Incorrect scale
Unnecessary detail
Non-manufacturable geometry

The production team may need to rebuild unsuitable model geometry.

Physical Templates

Physical templates may be used for:

Existing buildings
Irregular pools
Curved walls
Replacement stone
Historic profiles
Uneven openings
Custom stairs

Templates should be:

Dimensionally stable
Clearly labelled
Full size
Protected from distortion
Marked with finished face
Marked with orientation
Marked with piece code
Marked with joint allowance

Suitable template materials may include:

Rigid plastic
Thin plywood
Stable board
Approved digital survey output

Flexible paper templates may distort during transport.

Site Measurements

Final site measurement may be required for:

Window openings
Door openings
Existing façades
Pool shells
Staircases
Curved walls
Wall caps
Planters
Replacement pieces
Renovations

The project team should clearly define who is responsible for:

Site measurement
Measurement accuracy
Survey approval
Joint allowances
Final production release

Survey Datum

Site measurements should use a clear datum.

Possible datums include:

Finished floor level
Structural grid
Building axis
Pool centre
Window centreline
Stair landing
Façade level
Survey control point

Using different datums may create cumulative errors.

Tolerances in Existing Buildings

Existing construction may contain:

Uneven walls
Out-of-square openings
Different sill depths
Variable joint widths
Curved walls that are not true radii
Stair riser variation
Settlement

Replacement stone should not be manufactured from one typical dimension if openings vary.

Stone Cutting Lists

A cutting list translates project drawings into individual stone pieces.

A clear cutting list may include:

Piece code
Product description
Length
Width
Thickness
Quantity
Material
Surface finish
Edge profiles
Finished faces
Radius
Holes and slots
Drawing reference
Installation area
Crate group
Notes

Cutting List Format

Cutting lists may be supplied in:

Excel
CSV
PDF
Project-specific scheduling software
Approved database exports

Editable spreadsheet formats are useful for:

Quantity review
Sorting
Filtering
Revision comparison
Packaging organisation

Unique Piece Codes

Each custom piece type should have a unique code.

Examples may include:

FP-001 — Façade Panel
WS-001 — Window Sill
PC-001 — Pool Coping
ST-001 — Stair Tread
FR-001 — Fireplace Jamb
WC-001 — Wall Cap
CL-001 — Column Drum

Codes should not be reused for different geometry.

Repeated Pieces

Repeated pieces may share one product code when they have identical:

Dimensions
Thickness
Finish
Edge profiles
Holes
Orientation
Material

The cutting list should clearly identify the total quantity.

Mirrored Pieces

Left-hand and right-hand pieces should have separate codes when geometry is mirrored.

Examples include:

Window jambs
Fireplace jambs
Stair winders
Corner pieces
Entrance surrounds
Curved transitions

Avoid assuming that installers can reverse a finished piece.

Finished Orientation

Piece orientation may include:

Top
Bottom
Left
Right
Interior
Exterior
Front
Back
Up
Down
Clockwise
Counter-clockwise

Orientation should be shown where the piece is not symmetrical.

Stone Panel Schedules

A façade-panel schedule may include:

Panel code
Building
Elevation
Floor
Grid reference
Length
Width
Thickness
Finish
Edge details
Anchor preparation
Quantity
Weight
Crate number

Façade Elevation Drawings

Façade elevations should show:

Panel layout
Panel references
Joint widths
Grid lines
Floor levels
Window openings
Door openings
Corners
Movement joints
Parapets
Soffits
Installation sequence

Façade Panel Details

Each panel detail should identify:

Finished dimensions
Thickness
Material orientation
Surface finish
Finished faces
Anchor slots
Hole positions
Edge distances
Returns
Mitres
Weight where required

Façade Corner Drawings

Corner drawings should clearly show whether the solution is:

Mitred
Solid
Bonded L-shaped
Alternating quoin
Open joint
Metal trim
Return panel

The drawing should identify:

Outside dimensions
Individual component dimensions
Joint position
Visible seam
Anchor preparation
Packaging orientation

Window-Surround Drawings

Window details may include:

Sill
Left jamb
Right jamb
Head
Architrave
Keystones
Returns

The drawing should coordinate:

Window frame
Structural opening
Insulation
Waterproofing
Flashing
Sealant joints
Drip grooves
Surface falls

Window-Sill Drawings

Sill drawings should identify:

Overall length
Overall depth
Front overhang
Side horns
Stone thickness
Surface fall
Drip groove
Side returns
Rebates
Finished faces
Joint locations

Door-Surround Drawings

Door and entrance drawings may include:

Jambs
Header
Threshold
Arch
Columns
Cornice
Carved elements

Heavy components may require separate structural support details.

Limestone Pool Coping Drawings

Pool-coping drawings should identify:

Pool reference
Piece number
Inner radius
Outer radius
Arc angle
Chord length
Coping width
Thickness
Edge profile
Surface finish
Joint width
Drop-face depth
Installation direction

Explore our Pool Coping and Paving Guide.

Pool Plan Requirements

Pool plans should show:

Overall dimensions
Straight sections
Curved sections
Radius centres
Steps
Skimmers
Overflow channels
Waterline tile
Coping joints
Movement joints
Special transitions
Drain locations

Curved Pool Geometry

For curved coping, provide:

Inner radius
Outer radius
Tangent points
Curve centre
Arc length or angle
Segment quantity
Joint width
Start and end references

Providing only a visual curve without numerical geometry is insufficient for precision production.

Freeform Pool Drawings

Freeform pools may require:

CAD survey
Three-dimensional survey
Full-size templates
Coordinate points
Segment-by-segment drawings
Site verification

Drop-Face Coping Drawings

Drop-face details should identify:

Top width
Top thickness
Front-face depth
Mitred or solid construction
Bonded joint
Inner edge profile
Outer edge profile
Curved geometry
Corner details
Finished faces

Infinity-Pool Drawings

Infinity and overflow details should coordinate:

Overflow level
Coping level
Water edge
Channel dimensions
Rebate
Grate
Waterproofing
Tile
Finished stone level

Small dimensional differences may affect overflow performance.

Limestone Stair Drawings

Stair drawings should identify:

Total stair width
Tread depth
Riser height
Tread thickness
Riser thickness
Nosing profile
Nosing projection
Joint positions
Landings
Winder steps
Finished floor levels
Surface finish
Anti-slip grooves

Stair Piece Codes

Each step may be coded by:

Staircase
Floor
Flight
Step number
Left or right orientation

Examples:

ST-A-F1-01
ST-A-F1-02
ST-B-W01-L
ST-B-W01-R

Tread and Riser Coordination

Drawings should show whether:

The tread overlaps the riser
The riser sits beneath the tread
The nosing is solid
The nosing is mitred
The joint is visible
The riser is recessed
The tread includes grooves

Winder Stair Drawings

Winder steps require:

Inner width
Outer width
Angle
Centreline
Nosing curve
Joint positions
Left or right orientation
Template where required

Curved Stair Drawings

Curved stairs may require:

Inner radius
Outer radius
Riser angle
Step angle
Tread width
Nosing geometry
Vertical rise
Three-dimensional model

Fireplace Drawings

Fireplace drawings should identify:

Opening width
Opening height
Jamb dimensions
Header dimensions
Mantel shelf
Hearth
Corbels
Frieze
Overmantel
Wall build-up
Finished faces
Joint positions
Appliance clearances

Fireplace Component Codes

Components may include:

Left jamb
Right jamb
Header
Mantel
Hearth
Left corbel
Right corbel
Frieze
Overmantel

Each component should have a separate reference.

Wall-Cap Drawings

Wall-cap drawings should include:

Wall width
Cap width
Stone thickness
Overhang
Surface slope
Drip grooves
Joint width
Corner pieces
End pieces
Curved sections

Pier-Cap Drawings

Pier-cap details may include:

Pier dimensions
Cap dimensions
Pyramid height
Hip geometry
Overhang
Drip groove
Lighting hole
Cable route
Fixing detail

Column Drawings

Column drawings should identify:

Total height
Shaft diameter
Shaft width
Taper
Number of drums
Drum heights
Flute dimensions
Base profile
Capital profile
Joint positions
Structural core
Fixing
Orientation

Column Drum Drawings

Each drum should include:

Piece code
Height
Diameter
Internal hole where required
Dowel holes
Orientation
Flute alignment
Joint profile

Fluted Column Drawings

Fluted columns require:

Number of flutes
Flute width
Flute depth
Flute radius
Arris width
Start and stop positions
Alignment across drums

Capital Drawings

Capital production may require:

Front elevation
Side elevation
Plan
Section
Three-dimensional model
Carving details
Overall dimensions
Column interface
Top support dimensions
Orientation

Balustrade Drawings

Balustrade drawings should identify:

Baluster height
Baluster profile
Baluster spacing
Top rail
Bottom rail
Newel posts
Curved sections
Stair angle
Fixing holes
Joint positions

The complete balustrade system should be structurally designed by qualified project professionals.

Arch Drawings

Arch drawings should identify:

Opening width
Opening height
Inner radius
Outer radius
Arch type
Voussoir quantity
Joint width
Keystone
Arch depth
Finished faces
Support conditions

Arch Types

Possible arch forms include:

Semicircular
Segmental
Pointed
Elliptical
Three-centred
Flat arch
Custom geometry

Voussoir Drawings

Each arch segment may require:

Inner arc length
Outer arc length
Angle
Depth
Thickness
Joint faces
Piece number
Orientation

Keystone Drawings

Keystones may be:

Plain
Projecting
Carved
Oversized
Integrated into a decorative surround

Dimensions should include:

Top width
Bottom width
Height
Projection
Depth
Carving
Joint faces

Cornice and Moulding Drawings

Profiled stone should include:

Full-size section
Profile dimensions
Projection
Height
Stone depth
Joint positions
Internal and external corners
End returns
Surface finish

Profile Continuity

Long mouldings may be produced in sections.

The drawing should coordinate:

Joint locations
Pattern continuity
Internal corners
External corners
Returns
Terminations
Piece lengths

Fluted and Grooved Panel Drawings

Fluted or grooved panels should identify:

Panel dimensions
Thickness
Groove width
Groove depth
Spacing
Edge margins
Pattern direction
Pattern start point
Pattern end point
Joint position
Corner treatment

Pattern Continuity

Pattern continuity should be checked across:

Adjacent panels
Corners
Doors
Windows
Columns
Curved surfaces
Ceiling transitions

Carved Stone Drawings

Carved elements may require:

Vector artwork
Relief depths
Section details
Three-dimensional model
Surface-finish notes
Edge margins
Lettering style
Orientation
Fixing information

Explore our Architectural Stone Carving page.

Lettering and Sign Drawings

Lettering details should identify:

Font
Letter height
Letter depth
Letter spacing
Alignment
Recessed or raised form
Paint or metal insert
Panel dimensions
Edge margins
Fixing holes

Fonts should be supplied as vector outlines where possible.

Arabic Calligraphy Drawings

Arabic calligraphy projects should use approved artwork showing:

Exact letter forms
Diacritics
Line spacing
Reading direction
Relief depth
Panel layout
Joint positions

The approved artwork should be reviewed by the responsible client or design team before production.

Curved Limestone Drawings

Curved stone may require:

Inner radius
Outer radius
Arc angle
Chord length
Segment length
Thickness
Joint width
Surface finish
Edge profiles
Installation orientation

Explore our Curved Limestone Fabrication page.

True Radius and Irregular Curves

Drawings should distinguish between:

True circular radius
Ellipse
Spline
Freeform curve
Site-measured irregular curve

A simple radius dimension should not be applied to a non-circular curve.

Coordinate-Based Geometry

Complex curves may be defined using:

X and Y coordinates
X, Y and Z coordinates
Control points
Centre points
Tangent points
Digital models

Curved Wall Panels

Curved wall-panel drawings should identify whether the stone is:

Solid curved
Faceted
Kerf cut
Bonded
Segmented
Back-cut
Thin cladding over a curved substrate

Paving Drawings

Paving plans should identify:

Paver sizes
Pattern
Joint width
Borders
Drain locations
Surface falls
Movement joints
Stairs
Thresholds
Pool edges
Planters
Installation zones

Modular Pattern Drawings

Modular paving should include:

Exact piece sizes
Joint widths
Repeating module
Quantity ratio
Installation diagram
Border pieces

Random-Length Paving Drawings

Random-length specifications should define:

Fixed width
Minimum length
Maximum length
Joint width
Quantity calculation
End-joint rules

Interior Flooring Drawings

Interior floor plans should coordinate:

Room centres
Main axes
Door thresholds
Borders
Feature patterns
Movement joints
Stair connections
Floor outlets
Built-in furniture
Directional stone layout

Dry-Layout Drawings

Dry-layout drawings may show:

Piece numbers
Room positions
Panel sequence
Colour distribution
Fossil distribution
Pattern continuity
Joint locations

Slab Layout Drawings

Projects using slabs may require:

Slab references
Cut-piece nesting
Vein or fossil direction
Book-matching concepts
Waste allowances
Finished-piece references

Material Orientation

Some stone may show different appearance or performance depending on cutting orientation.

The project may specify:

Vein cut
Cross cut
Bed face
Edge face
Custom orientation

Orientation should be consistent across related components.

Dimensional Tolerances

Drawings should identify required tolerances for:

Length
Width
Thickness
Squareness
Flatness
Edge straightness
Hole diameter
Hole location
Slot dimensions
Radius
Profile geometry

Required tolerances should be realistic for:

Natural stone
Product dimensions
Surface finish
Production method
Installation system

Tight Tolerances

Tighter tolerances may affect:

Material selection
Production time
Inspection frequency
Waste
Cost
Packaging
Installation

The project team should request only the tolerances necessary for performance and design.

Natural Edge and Tumbled Products

Products with tumbled or hand-finished edges may require different tolerance expectations from precision-cut honed panels.

Visual criteria should be supported by physical samples.

Quantity Information

Quantities should be provided by:

Piece
Square metre
Square foot
Linear metre
Linear foot
Cubic metre
Set
Modular package

Custom architectural products should usually include piece quantities.

Waste and Spare Material

The project quantity should consider:

Cutting waste
Selection
Breakage
Site cuts
Pattern
Curves
Corners
Future replacement

Spare quantities should be identified separately.

Revision Control

Revision control is essential for stone manufacturing.

Every drawing should show:

Revision number
Revision date
Description of change
Approval status
Issued-by information
Superseded drawing reference

Revision Register

Large projects should maintain a register containing:

Drawing number
Drawing title
Current revision
Date received
Approval status
Production status
Affected pieces
Comments

Clouded Revisions

Changed areas should be clearly identified using:

Revision clouds
Change notes
Marked dimensions
Updated schedules

A new revision should not rely only on the reviewer visually discovering changes.

Late Revisions

Late changes may affect:

Stone already cut
CNC machining
Holes and slots
Surface finish
Piece numbering
Packaging
Cost
Programme
Delivery

The project team should immediately identify whether changed pieces are:

Not started
In production
Completed
Packed
Shipped
Installed

Superseded Drawings

Superseded drawings should be:

Clearly marked
Removed from production use
Archived
Linked to the replacement revision

Production teams should not have uncontrolled access to several unmarked revisions.

Drawing Approval

Approval may be provided by:

Architect
Main contractor
Façade consultant
Interior designer
Pool consultant
Stone contractor
Client representative

The responsible approval authority should be identified at the start of the project.

Approval Comments

Comments should be resolved clearly.

Avoid ambiguous responses such as:

Approved with comments
Proceed as discussed
Generally acceptable
Adjust on site

Where a comment affects dimensions or geometry, a revised drawing should be issued.

Red-Line Markups

Red-line markups may be used during coordination, but final production should be based on a clean revised drawing.

Drawing Transmittals

Each document issue should include:

Project name
Transmittal number
Date
Drawing list
Revisions
Purpose of issue
Required response
Sender
Recipient

File Naming

A consistent file-naming system may include:

Project
Drawing type
Product type
Drawing number
Revision
Date

Example:

DMR-VILLA01-POOL-COPING-PC001-REV03.pdf

Avoid generic names such as:

Final.pdf
Final2.pdf
Latest.dwg
New drawing.pdf
Correct version.dxf

Layer Naming in CAD Files

CAD layers may be organised by:

Stone outline
Dimensions
Text
Fixing holes
Grooves
Finished faces
Hidden geometry
Centre lines
Reference construction
Cutting path

Unused or unrelated layers should be removed before issue.

CAD Geometry Quality

Before sending CAD files, check for:

Duplicate lines
Open polylines
Overlapping geometry
Tiny gaps
Unnecessary hatches
Unexploded blocks
Incorrect scale
Unclear origins
Hidden geometry
Multiple alternatives in one file

Manufacturing Feasibility Review

Before approval, drawings should be reviewed for:

Block availability
Slab dimensions
Product weight
Minimum remaining thickness
Edge fragility
Tool access
Internal corner radius
Drill depth
Profile depth
Packaging
Site handling
Installation

A geometrically possible drawing may still be impractical to manufacture, transport or install.

Internal Corners

CNC tools may create minimum internal radii.

Perfectly sharp internal corners may require:

Hand finishing
Split components
Different geometry
Additional cost

The drawing should identify whether a small internal radius is acceptable.

Minimum Stone Sections

Deep grooves, holes or profiles may leave insufficient stone thickness.

The manufacturing and engineering review should consider:

Remaining section
Edge distance
Handling
Impact
Fixing
Long-term exposure

Maximum Piece Dimensions

Maximum practical dimensions depend on:

Block size
Slab size
Stone structure
Thickness
Weight
Profile
Handling
Packaging
Transport
Site access

Large pieces may need to be divided into smaller sections.

Joint Position Optimisation

Where a large element must be divided, joint positions should consider:

Architectural symmetry
Structural support
Pattern continuity
Handling
Installation
Replacement
Water drainage

Piece Weight

Drawings may need to identify approximate or confirmed weight for:

Façade panels
Columns
Capitals
Fireplace mantels
Large stairs
Solid coping
Benches
Sculptural elements

Weight affects:

Lifting
Packaging
support
installation
crane selection
manual handling

Packaging Information on Drawings

Drawings or schedules may identify packaging groups by:

Building
Villa
Elevation
Floor
Room
Pool
Staircase
Fireplace
Landscape area
Installation sequence

Piece Numbering

Piece numbers may be shown on:

Stone labels
Crate labels
Packing lists
Shop drawings
Dry-layout plans
Installation diagrams

Piece-number locations should avoid visible permanent marks.

Crate References

A packing schedule may link each piece to:

Crate number
Project zone
Gross weight
Net weight
Installation sequence
Handling requirements

Drawing Coordination with Packaging

Long or fragile pieces may require:

Vertical packing
Custom supports
Smaller crate groups
Edge protection
Separate shipping

Packaging limitations may affect piece dimensions.

Drawing Coordination with Site Access

Before approving large pieces, confirm:

Road access
Container access
crane capacity
forklift capacity
loading bay
lift dimensions
door widths
corridor dimensions
scaffold access
storage space

Mock-Up Drawings

Mock-up drawings should identify:

Included products
Material
Finish
Joint widths
Fixings
Adjacent materials
Grout
Sealants
Dimensions
Approval criteria

Full-Size Profile Samples

Full-size profile drawings may be required for:

Bullnose coping
Cornices
Stair nosings
Window sills
Wall caps
Fireplace mouldings
Custom rails

A 1:1 printed profile may support physical approval.

Approved Samples and Drawings

Drawings should reference approved:

Material sample
Colour range
Surface finish
Edge profile
Mock-up
Sealer sample

Drawings and samples should not conflict.

Quality-Control Drawings

Production inspection may use:

Dimensioned drawings
Profile templates
Hole-coordinate sheets
Panel schedules
Radius templates
Approved samples
Piece-number lists

Pre-Shipment Drawing Review

Before shipment, the project team may review:

Piece quantities
Product codes
Crate assignments
Replacement pieces
Drawings
Packing lists
Installation sequence

As-Built Drawings

As-built information may record:

Final piece dimensions
Approved site changes
Replacement pieces
Final panel codes
Installation locations
Crate records
Spare material

As-built documents can support future maintenance and replacement.

Common Stone Drawing Mistakes

Missing Units

A dimension without units may be misinterpreted.

Missing Thickness

Plan dimensions do not define stone thickness.

Using Nominal Dimensions Without Explanation

Nominal modules may not equal finished stone dimensions.

Missing Joint Widths

Overall assemblies cannot be accurately calculated without joint information.

Missing Finished Faces

The wrong faces may remain sawn or unfinished.

Writing “Bullnose” Without a Radius

Different suppliers may interpret bullnose differently.

Missing Left and Right References

Mirrored pieces may be manufactured incorrectly.

Sending Only a PDF for Complex CNC Work

Editable geometry may be required.

Sending Low-Resolution Logos

Raster images may not be suitable for precise carving.

Using Different Revisions of Plans and Cutting Lists

Quantities and dimensions may conflict.

Scaling from Drawings

PDF or print scaling may be inaccurate.

Producing Curved Stone from Approximate Geometry

Small radius errors may create large installation problems.

Missing Installation Orientation

Directional finishes and profiles may face the wrong direction.

Ignoring Packaging and Handling

A piece may be manufacturable but impossible to deliver or install.

Architectural Stone Drawing Checklist

Before issuing drawings for production, confirm:

Project name
Drawing number
Revision
Date
Approval status
Measurement units
Scale
Material
Colour-range reference
Surface finish
Finish direction
Finished faces
Length
Width
Thickness
Edge profiles
Joint widths
Radii
Angles
Holes
Slots
Rebates
Grooves
Piece codes
Quantities
Installation orientation
Packaging zone
Related drawings
Mock-up reference
Site measurement approval

Cutting List Checklist

Confirm that the cutting list includes:

Unique piece code
Product description
Length
Width
Thickness
Quantity
Material
Finish
Finished faces
Edge profiles
Radius
Holes and slots
Drawing reference
Project area
Crate group
Revision

Information Required for Drawing Review

To request a stone drawing and manufacturing review, provide:

Project name
Project country and city
Product type
Limestone preference
Architectural drawings
Stone drawings
Cutting lists
CAD files
BIM exports
Three-dimensional models
Dimensions
Thickness
Surface finish
Edge profiles
Joint widths
Required tolerances
Quantities
Installation method
Project programme
Delivery destination

Frequently Asked Questions About Architectural Stone Drawings

What drawings are required for custom limestone production?

Required documents may include plans, elevations, sections, details, stone schedules, cutting lists and approved CAD files.

Can DMR Limestone work from architectural drawings?

Yes. Architectural drawings may be used for preliminary review, but detailed manufacturing information may also be required.

Can DMR Limestone prepare stone shop drawings?

Drawing coordination may be provided according to the agreed project scope.

Who approves the final shop drawings?

Final approval should be provided by the responsible architect, contractor, consultant or client representative.

Can production begin from preliminary drawings?

Production should begin only from approved information issued for manufacturing.

Can DMR Limestone work from PDF files?

Yes, but editable CAD geometry may be required for custom cutting and CNC production.

Can DMR Limestone work from DWG files?

Yes. Clean, correctly scaled DWG files are preferred for many custom projects.

Can DMR Limestone work from DXF files?

Yes. DXF files are useful for profiles, curves, templates and cutting geometry.

Can BIM models be used?

Approved BIM exports may support panel schedules and dimensional coordination.

Can DMR Limestone work from three-dimensional models?

Yes. Three-dimensional models may support curved and carved products.

Can a photograph be used for production?

A photograph may support design interpretation, but accurate dimensions and approved geometry are required.

Can limestone be manufactured from a hand sketch?

A clear sketch may support preliminary discussion, but formal production drawings may be required.

Can physical templates be used?

Yes. Full-size stable templates may be used for irregular or existing conditions.

Which measurement units should be used?

Use clearly identified metric or imperial dimensions.

Can metric and imperial dimensions be mixed?

It is better to establish one approved production basis.

Should dimensions include joints?

The drawing must clearly state whether dimensions include or exclude joints.

What is a finished dimension?

It is the final required size of the manufactured stone piece.

What is a nominal dimension?

It is a module or descriptive size that may differ from the finished stone dimension.

Can DMR Limestone scale dimensions from a PDF?

Critical production dimensions should be written rather than scaled.

Why is stone thickness important?

Thickness affects weight, strength, profiles, fixing, packaging and installation.

Can thickness vary within one piece?

Yes, where slopes, profiles or rebates are required, but the geometry must be fully defined.

How should finished faces be shown?

Use elevations, sections, arrows, labels or surface codes.

How should edge profiles be shown?

Use enlarged dimensioned sections and approved profile references.

Is “bullnose” enough information?

No. The radius and complete profile should be defined.

Can custom edge profiles be manufactured?

Yes. Approved drawings or full-size templates are required.

Can drip grooves be added?

Yes. Width, depth and position should be shown.

Can rebates and notches be produced?

Yes. Their complete dimensions and purpose should be identified.

Can holes be drilled at the factory?

Yes. Hole diameter, depth, position and tolerance must be provided.

Can façade anchor slots be machined?

Yes. Approved fixing-preparation drawings are required.

Does DMR Limestone design façade anchors?

No. Fixing systems should be designed by qualified project professionals.

Can curved limestone be manufactured from one radius?

Yes, for true circular geometry where all required dimensions are provided.

What is required for irregular curves?

Accurate CAD geometry, coordinates, scans or physical templates may be required.

Can freeform pool coping be manufactured?

Yes. Site survey or full-size templates may be needed.

Should curved coping pieces be numbered?

Yes. Numbering helps maintain the approved installation sequence.

Can pool coping be produced from a pool plan?

Yes. The plan should identify inner and outer geometry, profiles, joints and special pieces.

Should final pool dimensions be verified?

Yes, particularly for curved, overflow and renovation pools.

What information is required for staircase production?

Provide tread depths, riser heights, widths, nosings, joints, landings and finished levels.

Can winder stairs be produced?

Yes. Detailed geometry or templates may be required.

Can curved staircases be manufactured?

Yes. Three-dimensional coordination may be necessary.

Can fireplace components be produced from an elevation?

A plan, elevation, sections and component dimensions are normally recommended.

Can columns be produced from architectural drawings?

Yes. Shaft, base, capital, joints and structural coordination should be defined.

Can capitals be produced from photographs?

Photographs may provide design direction, but accurate drawings or models are required.

Can arches be manufactured?

Yes. Opening dimensions, radii, arch type, segment quantity and joints must be defined.

Can logos be engraved?

Yes. Vector artwork is preferred.

Can low-resolution JPG logos be used?

They may be insufficient for precise manufacturing.

Can Arabic calligraphy be carved?

Yes. Approved vector artwork and final linguistic review are required.

Can fluted panels align across several pieces?

Yes. Pattern continuity should be defined in the elevation and piece drawings.

Can flutes continue around corners?

Yes, but the corner treatment must be clearly designed.

Can directional finishes be controlled?

Yes. Finish direction should be shown on drawings and labels.

What is a stone cutting list?

It is a schedule of individual pieces containing dimensions, quantities, finishes and fabrication details.

Can cutting lists be supplied in Excel?

Yes. Editable spreadsheet formats are useful for project coordination.

Does each piece need a unique code?

Each unique geometry should have a unique code.

Can identical pieces share one code?

Yes, when all dimensions and fabrication details are identical.

Should mirrored pieces have different codes?

Yes. Left and right pieces should be clearly separated.

Can pieces be numbered by room or elevation?

Yes. Piece numbering may follow the installation location.

Can crates be linked to piece numbers?

Yes. Packing lists may show the crate for every item.

Why is revision control important?

Stone may already be in production when a revision is issued.

What should a revision contain?

It should identify changed dimensions, quantities, geometry and the superseded version.

Can production use drawings marked “approved with comments”?

Comments affecting production should be incorporated into a clean revised drawing.

What happens when drawings change after cutting?

Changes may create additional cost, replacement production and programme delays.

Can on-site changes be made to stone?

Minor modifications may be possible, but uncontrolled cutting can affect appearance, strength and fixings.

Can DMR Limestone review manufacturing feasibility?

Yes. Drawings may be reviewed for stone dimensions, machining, profiles, packaging and production limitations.

Is every drawn shape manufacturable?

No. Tool access, stone strength, block dimensions and remaining sections may require changes.

Can sharp internal corners be machined?

CNC tools usually create a minimum internal radius. Hand finishing or split components may be required.

Can very large pieces be manufactured?

Maximum dimensions depend on material, thickness, weight, handling, packaging and site access.

Can large pieces be divided?

Yes. Joint locations should be coordinated with the design.

Should piece weight be shown?

It is recommended for large, heavy or mechanically fixed elements.

Can stone be packed by floor or area?

Yes. Drawings and schedules may define packaging zones.

Can stone be packed in installation order?

Yes, where the sequence is agreed before packaging.

Can DMR Limestone provide as-built records?

Project-specific manufacturing and piece records may be coordinated within the agreed scope.

What file names should be used?

Use clear project, drawing, product and revision references.

Should files be named “final”?

No. Use formal revision numbers and dates.

Can drawings be submitted in several languages?

Yes, but dimensions and technical terms should remain clear and consistent.

What information is needed for a drawing quotation?

Provide project type, drawings, product list, quantity, complexity, material and required drawing scope.

Request an Architectural Stone Drawing Review

Contact DMR Limestone to request:

Stone drawing review
Cutting-list review
Limestone fabrication assessment
DWG and DXF coordination
CNC geometry review
Façade-panel schedule review
Pool-coping drawing review
Stair drawing review
Window-sill drawing review
Fireplace component review
Column and capital review
Arch and cornice review
Curved limestone review
Carved stone review
Piece-numbering coordination
Project-area packaging
Custom limestone quotation

Send us your architectural drawings, stone schedules, cutting lists, CAD files, product dimensions, thicknesses, surface finishes, edge profiles, quantities, project location and delivery destination to receive a project-specific limestone manufacturing review and quotation.