What is a burial shroud?
A burial shroud is a soft cloth used instead of a coffin. It offers a more human, tactile and connected way to say goodbye. Each shroud is fully biodegradable and suitable for natural burials, woodland funerals and eco friendly cremations.
Can I be involved in making the shroud?
Yes. You can take part as much or as little as you wish, from choosing fabrics or heirloom cloths to stitching alongside me in the studio or during a guided session. No previous sewing experience is needed.
Can I bring my own fabrics?
Absolutely. Many families bring meaningful garments or heirloom textiles to be incorporated into the shroud or a memorial cloth. These personal fabrics help tell a story and honour memory.
What materials do you use?
All shrouds are made from biodegradable natural fibres such as wool, hemp, linen, silk and cotton. I often use reclaimed or UK grown materials and sometimes include eco prints or cyanotypes. Every piece meets natural burial and cremation guidelines. Please check samples below.
Is this suitable for cremation?
Yes. Shrouds for cremation contain no synthetic fibres or coatings, allowing clean burning in keeping with eco cremation standards.
Can I commission a shroud in advance?
Yes. Many people choose to do this as a personal act of preparation and legacy. Some keep their shroud at home as a quiet reminder of life, continuity and care.
How long does a commission take?
Most commissions take two to four weeks. If there is an immediate need, I can create and deliver a shroud within one or two days. Please contact me to discuss what is possible.
Can you run private workshops?
Yes. I offer private sessions for families, friends or small groups who wish to create together in remembrance or preparation. These can be held in my studio or at a suitable venue near you.
How do I commission a shroud?
- Conversation – We begin with a gentle discussion about your wishes, timing and materials.
- Choosing fabrics – You may use heirloom textiles or select from my collection.
- Making – I can make it for you, with you, or guide you to make it yourself.
- Delivery – Each shroud is folded and wrapped with care, and may include a small ritual or remembrance cloth.
Pricing
- Bespoke shroud: from £450
- Co making or family involvement: £80 to £180
- Urgent commissions: ready within 12 to 24 hours (a small additional fee may apply)
- Workshops and group cloths: from £65 per person, or £240 for private family sessions (materials included)
Botanical printing (also known as Eco printing).
I use tannin-rich leaves and plant extracts to create ghost like prints. You may want to be involved in collecting plants and arranging them onto the fabric.
Cyanotype.
I transfer the shapes of plants, photographs, and artwork meaningful to the deceased onto fabric using sunlight and biodegradable, sun-sensitive emulsion. This 19th-century technique, called cyanotype, creates distinctive Prussian-blue prints with eco-friendly, non-toxic chemicals.
Example of All-in-One shroud where vintage embroidered panel was integrated into eco-printed calico.
Example of All-in-One shroud where cyanotype technique was used to create a dream landscape with moons, seaweed collected on Brighton beach and vintage lace.
How do you shroud a body?
I design and make different types of shrouds. Here is one of my examples.
Three ties are placed in a willow carrier.
All-in-One shroud is unfolded. Decorative overleaf is at the top.
The body is gently placed into the middle section. Bottom section is is used to cover the body.
Decorative (top) part is placed on the top. Each tie is used to fasten the body.
At this stage, the shrouded body can be buried. Most of All-in One shrouds are made from thicker fabrics and ties are hidden underneath so the body is less visible.
As this shroud is made from thin cotton, I recommend using a Soft Cover to create a soft, coffin like shape.