Natural Thinstone Veneer Patterns: Explained

If you have researched natural Thinstone Veneer or spent any time on the internet seeking inspiration, you already know one thing: there are more options to personalize your space than you imagined! Natural stone is quarried across the country, in a variety of types, color schemes, and shapes. Delgado Stone alone has more than 20 different types of stone, and most are available in five different patterns. 

This project features a custom blend of  CT Blend thinstone patterns. 

With the right planning and approach, the range of choices is beneficial because each pattern has different characteristics. The traits you like the most about a particular stone can be enhanced by the pattern you choose. The Mosaic, Strip, and Roughly Square and Rectangle patterns feature the stone face, while the Ledgestone and Ashlar showcase the end grain. Here is a closer look at each of them. 

Mosaic includes irregular shapes that fit together like a puzzle, allowing you to create your own unique design. The face surface ranges from approx. .25 to 1.25 square feet.  Mosaic patterns are a popular choice to give projects a more natural, rustic look. This accent wall below, featuring Connecticut Blend and the talents of JJ Stone Design and Masonry, is a great example of how a little stone makes a big impact. 

Mosaic accent wall in a New Hampshire home; stone provided by New Hampshire Thinstone

Strip is the pattern that most resembles the layout of brick. The face ranges from approx. 5-8” in height and 12-18” in length. Stones are all cut to almost the same size so they fit together to create a smooth, flat surface. The rectangular shape makes Strip a good fit for projects needing consistent and longer stones. This fireplace below features the talents of Lakeside Masonry using Spruce Mountain Strip.  

Fireplace featuring Spruce Mountain Strip; stone provided by New Hampshire Thinstone 

Ledgestone (typically referred to as Ledge) is made up of thin cut pieces of natural stone often used for siding. These end-grain pieces run in size approx. 1”-4” in height and 6”-14” in length. This pattern creates a unique, layered look when used for stone walls or fireplaces (as you can see in the photo below, featuring design and install by Rockport Post and Beam and Larry Luce Masonry, LLC.)The smallest pattern of the five, Ledgestone can be used for a wide range of projects, from home siding to step risers.

Fireplace designed with Connecticut Blend Ledge

Roughly Square and Rectangle (typically referred to as Square & Rec) pieces are “roughly”  6”x6” and larger, while the rectangular pieces are longer. In contrast to the Mosaic pattern,  Square & Rec is used to create a clean and more modern look. Often used for exterior siding, Square & Rec offers a smooth, consistent shape that puts the focus on the color choice and range. The photo below shows a Connecticut project by J. Salvatore & Sons using Square and Rec on the entrance to coordinate with the front of the home. 

Front entrance featuring Montauk Blend Square and Rec; stone provided by Masonry Depot

Ashlar is a combination of approx. 50% Strip pieces (rectangular) 25% Ledge and 25% Small Squares. The combination of these three patterns provides the mason with the flexibility to create a unique design for each project. In the photo below, Northeast Walls and Patios installed Colonial Tan in the Ashlar pattern for the new home's entryway, pillars, and arch siding. 

Montauk Blend Ashlar; stone provided by Masonry Depot

Even with a wide range of options, there are no bounds for imagination and creativity, as you can see in projects (like the one at the top of the page) that feature their own blend of different patterns. Homeowners often coordinate with their masons and dealers to select a truly customized design that fits their individual project. We love seeing the way these projects maximize the impact of natural stone and showcase the talents of the designers and installers!