FAQs

Lexington Ice Sculptures

Frequently Asked Questions

Take a look at the frequently asked questions that our customers ask about our services.

Our pricing depends on the size and design of your piece:

  • Tabletop sculptures: start at $400

  • ½-block ice luges: start at $400

  • Standard single-block sculptures (e.g., swan, eagle, angelfish): $750–$900

  • Custom single-block sculptures: $1000–$1,350

Final costs may vary based on design complexity, upgrades, and the amount of ice required to bring your vision to life.

We use a wide variety of tools to create each sculpture:

  • Heavy equipment such as an engine hoist and sawmill for handling large ice blocks.

  • A 3-axis CNC machine designed specifically for ice, allowing precise shaping.

  • Hand tools used on every sculpture, including:

    • Modified electric chainsaws

    • Die grinders with specialty ice bits

    • Angle grinders and sanders

    • Razor-sharp chisels

  • A finishing torch to bring out the natural clarity of the ice and highlight every detail.

Each tool plays a role in transforming a block of ice into a work of art — combining technology with traditional craftsmanship.

Our largest project to date was “Cool Beans” — our interpretation of Jack and the Beanstalk at the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, Alaska (2016).

  • Created by 4 professional sculptors over 6 days

  • Used more than 50,000 pounds of ice

  • Reached a record-breaking 32 feet tall

It still holds the record as the tallest sculpture in Ice Alaska history.

Every sculpture is custom-designed and carefully carved, so advance notice is important.

  • Ideal lead time: We recommend placing your order at least two weeks before your event to allow time for design, scheduling, and production.

  • Busy seasons: During holidays or peak event times, even more notice is encouraged.

  • Expedited orders: In special cases, we can sometimes accommodate tighter timelines, but availability is not guaranteed.

The earlier you book, the better we can ensure your sculpture is exactly what you envision.

Sculptures are meant to melt naturally and often look their best after a few hours on display.

  • An average-sized sculpture will last 6–7 hours indoors under normal conditions.

  • Smaller pieces (such as table centerpieces) last 4–5 hours in peak condition.

  • Complete melting can take several days.
    Sculptures do not need refrigeration during the event. They are delivered wrapped and sealed for protection, then unwrapped and presented for display. If needed, our team can also assist with disposal afterward.

We are based in Lexington, Kentucky, but can deliver anywhere across the state — and beyond. Delivery fees vary based on size, location, and event requirements. Our refrigerated truck ensures your sculpture arrives in perfect condition, just as it left our studio.

We provide turn-key service for every order. Pricing includes delivery, setup, and equipment (purchase or rental, plus collection afterward). In most cases, our team sets up the sculpture at your venue about one hour before guests arrive, adding any optional lighting, skirting, or décor you’ve selected.

Yes! We sell our 300-lb ice blocks for $150 each. We usually have several on hand, but availability can vary, so we recommend calling ahead to confirm.

The cost of an ice sculpture can vary depending on several factors:

  • Size: How many blocks of ice are required.

  • Design complexity: Simple shapes vs. highly detailed or intricate carvings.

  • Interactive elements: Features like taps, lighting, color, logos, or items frozen inside.

  • Delivery and setup: Location, access, and timing can affect logistics.

  • Additional items: Ordering multiple sculptures or complementary pieces.

Because every project is unique, pricing ranges widely — from small accent pieces starting around $200 to large, multi-block installations that can reach $12,000+.

Ice sculptures today are more affordable than ever and offer incredible value for the lasting impression they leave at weddings, corporate events, festivals, and beyond.

Every ice sculpture begins with a crystal-clear block of ice. At Lexington Ice Sculptures, we produce our own 300-lb blocks using special machines that filter and circulate the water during freezing. This process — using Kentucky limestone-filtered water and a 4-step purification system — ensures unmatched clarity, like fine crystal.

From there:

  • Freezing objects inside: During the block-making stage, items such as logos, flowers, bottles, or even lighting can be embedded directly into the ice.

  • Carving: Each block (40″ tall × 20″ wide × 10″ thick) is carefully cut and shaped using a combination of power tools and hand tools.

  • Large installations: Bigger designs are created by fusing multiple blocks together, sometimes requiring cranes and trucks for transport.

  • Finishing: Sculptures range from palm-sized accents to towering, multi-block centerpieces — always with a brilliant, glass-like finish.

The result: a one-of-a-kind work of art that transforms clear ice into an unforgettable experience.

Yes — the ice we use is very different from what you’d freeze at home. Each block is produced in-house using a specialized freezing process that ensures crystal-clear clarity and strength.

  • We start with ultra-pure, limestone-filtered water that goes through a multi-step purification process.

  • Our block-making machines control circulation and freezing speed, eliminating bubbles, cracks, and cloudiness.

  • We can also create white ice for contrast and special design effects.

This process results in ice that looks like fine crystal — strong, flawless, and perfect for carving into detailed sculptures.

Absolutely! Thanks to advanced technology and expert craftsmanship, we can replicate even the most detailed company logos in ice.

  • Our CNC carving machine allows us to achieve precise, intricate designs.

  • Logos can be enhanced with biodegradable color accents, objects frozen inside, or even multi-dimensional carving techniques.

  • Sculptures are often displayed on a custom ornamental base that complements and elevates the design.

The result is a stunning, brand-focused centerpiece that makes a lasting impression at corporate events, trade shows, or celebrations.

Possibly! It depends on what projects we currently have in production or stored in our freezer. The best option is to give us a call and we’ll let you know what’s available to view.

We also love welcoming new friends — so if you’d like a tour of our shop, let us know and we’ll be happy to arrange it.

Yes! We offer a variety of novelty ice pieces, including:

  • Shot glasses made of ice

  • Beer mugs

  • High-ball glasses

  • Martini glasses

  • Specialty ice cubes in unique shapes

These smaller creations are a fun way to add a memorable, interactive touch to parties, weddings, and events.

Yes, discounts may be available for clients who order multiple sculptures. Many of our partners — such as event planners, hotels, and venues — choose to pre-pay for several sculptures throughout the year to receive special pricing.

That said, each piece is still a hand-carved work of art, created in freezing conditions with precision tools. Whether it’s one sculpture or several, the same level of skill, time, and craftsmanship goes into every piece.

If you’d like to explore a multi-order or annual package, we’d be happy to discuss options that fit your needs.

While we don’t have a formal reseller program in place, we frequently partner with restaurants, hotels, event planners, and venues that need multiple sculptures throughout the year.

Options include:

  • Bulk orders stored in your own freezer space for resale to guests.

  • Pre-paid annual packages for an anticipated number of sculptures.

If you’re interested in exploring a custom arrangement, please email us at LexingtonIceSculptures@gmail.com — we’d be happy to discuss the best solution for your needs.

Because each sculpture is custom-made, our policies are designed to protect both the artistry and logistics involved:

  • Payment requirement: Full payment is required at least 7 days prior to the event date to guarantee services.

  • Expedited orders: Orders placed with less than 7 days’ notice must be paid in full at the time of ordering.

  • Cancellations: Cancellations made with less than 5 business days’ notice will result in the loss of any prior deposits or payments.

  • Refunds: Refunds are not permitted. However, in some cases, a credit toward a future project may be applied.

This one makes us smile every time it comes up — and it comes up a lot. Thankfully, the answer is simple: no stuck tongues here. You can admire (or even taste) the sculpture without fear of recreating A Christmas Story.