What is Chinese stone seal carving?

Seal carving (篆刻 zhuàn kè) is a centuries-old art of engraving names, poems, or symbols into stone. Traditionally used by scholars, artists and officials to mark paintings and documents, each seal carries its owner's identity and spirit. Every hand-carved Moss Stone Studio piece is designed to be both functional and heirloom-worthy.

How are your seals made?

Each Moss Stone Studio piece is carved entirely by hand using traditional tools and techniques, so that each seal reflects the stone's natural texture and the maker's creative style.

What kinds of stones do you use?

I work with seal stones from a variety of origins, such as Chang Hua 昌化 and Zhejiang Hong 浙江红 stones from China, Ba Lin 巴林 stones from Mongolia and Lao Wo 老挝 stones from Laos. Each type of stone has its distinct textures and translucencies.

Can I choose my own stone?

Yes. For bespoke work, I maintain a small collection of stones for you to choose from. When we chat, I'll recommend stones that best suit your project, and you can select the one that speaks to you.

What's the smallest seal size available?

The minimum size that I carve is 1cm x 1cm. Larger sizes are available depending on the complexity of your design — we can discuss what suits your brief during our chat.

Can you carve non-Chinese scripts or motifs?

Absolutely. Whether it’s a monogram in Latin script, a non-text motif, or something else, I’m happy to explore what’s possible.

How do I start a bespoke commission?

Begin by submitting an enquiry through my online form. Share a few details about the intended recipient or occasion, preferred size, timeline, and any design ideas you may have. You're welcome to browse my past work for inspiration, especially when exploring seal script styles.

If you're unsure what would suit your brief, that's perfectly fine — simply leave it open-ended and we'll explore possibilities together during the consultation. Once I've received your enquiry, I'll be in touch to schedule a session or clarify details.

What happens during a design consultation?

This session is where we shape the piece together. We'll talk about who the seal is for, their relationship with their name, how the seal might be used, and the stories or sentiments you'd like it to hold. The conversation forms the basis for its inscription, script style, choice of stone, and presentation. Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, and after the session, I'll share an estimated price range based on your brief.

Consultations can be held in person or over a call — whichever you prefer.

How long does the process take?

Depending on complexity, current bookings and availability of materials, a single-character name seal typically takes 3–5 weeks from consultation to delivery. Multi-character or motif-based designs may take 5–8 weeks. If you have a specific event date (e.g. wedding, birthday, baby's arrival, corporate farewell), please share it early so we can plan accordingly.

Do you offer rush orders?

Rush requests are accepted on a case-by-case basis, depending on factors such as timeline and material availability. If you require an expedited commission, please enquire directly. A 30–50% rush fee may apply.

Can I see the design before it's carved?

Yes. Following the consultation, I'll prepare two design options for you to choose from. If needed, one round of minor revisions (such as layout or script size adjustments) is included in the fee. Please note that further changes or a shift in project scope at this stage may incur additional design fees. Once the design is finalised, carving will begin.

Do note that the material nature of stone means that small variations — such as minor chips or subtle differences from the sketch — may occur during carving. A variance of around 5-10% from the initial design is considered normal and part of the work's handmade character, rather than a defect.

What happens next?

When your seal has been carved, I'll send you an image of the finished piece for your review before it's carefully packaged and sent to you.

Can I commission more than one seal at a time?

Absolutely — popular requests include paired wedding seals, family sets, or artist name + studio seals. Sets are carved to harmonise in terms of proportion, material, and tone.

How are your commissions priced?

Each commission is unique, depending on stone type, size, design complexity, and script style. To offer a sense of the typical range for bespoke work carved on standard 2cm square Zhejiang Hong 浙江红 stone:

— Single-character name seals start at SGD 500, with pricing increasing with each additional character (to a maximum of 4 characters).
— Wedding or couple's seals (a pair of seals bearing each person's name) start at SGD 1,600.
— Particularly intricate seal scripts (such as bird-worm script 鸟虫篆 or yuanzhuwen 元朱文) would incur an additional 30–50% due to the complexity of the design.

For an accurate quotation based on your specific needs, please request a design consultation.

What's included?

The quotation I share with you will include the design and carving fee, the seal stone itself, a plain linen keepsake box, and local delivery within Singapore. Should you require custom box options for more ceremonial or gifting occasions, let me know and we can arrange this. Additional costs may apply.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. I can arrange for international shipping — shipping and handling charges are borne by the buyer on top of the commission cost.

What's not included?

Seal paste is sold separately. I can assist with ordering it for you, or recommend reliable places to purchase it in Singapore.

Why are bespoke seals priced this way?

Each seal is an art object created over hours of design, script research, carving, and finishing — often across several days. The fee reflects the one-of-a-kind nature of the work, the craftsmanship involved, and the time and expertise that goes into each piece.

What payment methods do you accept, and how does payment work?

For Singapore-based clients, I accept payment via PayNow or bank transfer. For international clients, I accept payment through PayPal or bank transfer (for select major currencies).

Payment occurs in two parts:

— A 50% deposit is required to confirm your commission. Once the deposit is received, I'll begin designing your piece.
— The remaining 50% balance is due upon completion of the seal, before it's released for delivery.

How do I use my seal?

Your seal can be used with traditional seal paste 印泥 or wax. When using it with seal paste, dab the paste evenly on the carved surface, press gently on your paper or card, and lift straight up to reveal the imprint.

It's not printing very clearly. How can I achieve a better imprint?

Stack a sheaf of newspapers or printer paper underneath the paper that you're printing on.

Can I use wax seals with it?

Yes — many couples use their wedding seals with wax for invitations or thank-you notes. Just let me know during design so I can carve with a slightly deeper relief suitable for wax use.

How should I care for my seal?

After each use, wipe the carved face with a dry kitchen paper towel to remove excess ink. Stone is brittle and breaks when dropped, so please treat it with care and store it in its box when not in use.

What if the seal face gets stained or dusty?

Wipe the seal face with a piece of dry kitchen paper towel. If ink stains are stubborn, you can use wet wipes or scrub it with a toothbrush and some toothpaste.

Can you translate my name into Chinese?

Yes. If you don't already have a Chinese name, I'll work with you to develop a Chinese name based on sound and meaning, ensuring that the chosen characters feel true to who you are. Name consultation is available for an additional fee.

Can you replicate someone else's seal?

Out of respect — and because reproducing an existing seal can pose security concerns — I do not replicate other artists' designs. However, I can create a new piece inspired by a particular aesthetic, era, or historic style.

Do you collaborate with brands or cultural partners?

Yes — I welcome collaborations with museums, cultural organisations, and brands that share an interest in exploring contemporary expressions of heritage craft. For partnership enquiries, please get in touch through the contact form.

Do you offer corporate gifts or bulk orders?

Yes. I design commemorative seals for C-suite leaders, milestone anniversaries, and cultural events. As each piece is designed and carved entirely by hand, larger commissions are considered on a case-by-case basis. I’m happy to discuss group or corporate commissions, with pricing based on the individual design and craftsmanship involved in each piece. For larger enquiries, please get in touch to discuss what you have in mind.

Are bespoke orders refundable?

Due to the personalised nature of the work, bespoke commissions are non-refundable once work commences.

Do you provide digital reproductions of the seal stamp?

Yes — upon request, I can provide a digital impression (a scan of your stamped mark) for use on stationery or branding materials in .png or .jpeg format. The file will be shared via a secure Google folder, with an additional fee of SGD 48.

If the seal is a gift and you'd like the file presented differently (for instance, saved onto a thumb drive), please get in touch to discuss available options.

What if my seal arrives damaged?

Please contact me within seven days of receipt, including clear photos of the damage. I'll review each case individually and arrange a repair or partial refund where appropriate.

Do you teach seal carving?

Yes. I conduct hands-on workshops suitable for beginners, artists, and crafters. Participants design, carve, and ink their own single-character name seal from start to finish. Workshops are conducted in English.

Where are the workshops held?

I can accommodate small-group sessions at my private studio in the heartlands in Toa Payoh — these require a minimum of 3 to start. I also work with venue partners such as In the Boonies for larger group workshops. Private group bookings for 5 or more participants at a venue of your choice are also available on request.

Do I need prior experience?

None at all. Workshops are beginner-friendly and designed to be safe, guided, and mindful. You'll learn basic carving techniques, use traditional tools, and take home your completed seal.

What's included in the workshop fee?

All materials and tools are provided for in-session use. You'll take home your carved stone seal in either a drawstring keepsake bag or linen box, depending on the session requested. Please see my workshops page for more details.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Workshops are suitable for ages 13 and up. Younger participants may join with parental supervision depending on venue policy.

Are private or team-building sessions available?

Yes — I offer private bookings for groups of 5–20, ideal for creative team experiences or celebrations. I'm happy to tailor the session length and other considerations based on your desired outcomes.