Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for engraving semi-soft and malleable items such as soaps and candles, to create large quantities of personalized products where each item could have unique markings, such as a monogram, logo, word, or saying. Embodiments include a machine tool having a spindle, a stylus, and a nosecone comprising a top portion attachable to the spindle. The nosecone also has a bottom rim for contacting stock to be machined by the machine tool and for distributing a downward pressure of the machine tool applied to the stock; and a body between the bottom rim and the top portion, for preventing contact between the stock and the spindle and for preventing a stylus of the machine tool from penetrating the stock before a predetermined amount of pressure is applied to the stock from the machine tool. A holding device of a rigid material, having at least one nest cavity, holds the stock while the pressure is applied to the stock.