How-To
Flame Edging Stone-Wall Capstones
A torch and water add sizzle and pop to this bluestone's edge.
To create a decorative edge on this bluestone capstone, mason Brendan Mostecki employs what he calls a rock-and-thermal approach.
In the first part of the process, Brendan chips the clean edge off of the cut stones with a 3-lb. hammer and a carbide chisel. Then he applies heat with a gas torch, called “thermalling”, to cause the edges of the bluestone to pop, leaving behind a rougher, more naturalistic texture.
The process takes a little patience and care, but isn’t difficult once you get the hang of it. See the how it’s done in this video from the Fine Homebuilding archives.
