Wool Felt & Cotton Shrouds

About Burial Shrouds

Shrouds are an increasingly popular alternative to traditional coffins, particularly for those seeking a simple, environmentally friendly funeral option. They are suitable for both burial and cremation.

A shroud can be used instead of a coffin, or can be placed inside a coffin. Biodegradable shrouds are usually made of cotton, linen, hemp or wool felt. For some faiths, a simple white shroud is customary, but others may choose to customise or decorate the shroud.

Burial Shrouds for Cremation and Natural Burial

Wool Felt Coffins and Shrouds

Wool felt is made from boiled sheep’s wool, which creates a dense, strong fabric. It’s a biodegradable and sustainable material and, unlike some synthetic materials, does not release harmful chemicals when it decomposes. This makes it a safe and green option for the environment and particularly suitable for natural burial or an eco-friendly funeral.

Hemp, Linen and Cotton Shrouds

Hemp, linen and cotton are often used to make simple shrouds for burial or cremation. They are an ancient burial practice used in many cultures and faiths around the world, for example in Judaism and Islam. Shrouds are seen as a symbol of simplicity, humility and a return to nature.

Biodegradable and Environmentally Friendly

Many shrouds are made by artisans using environmentally friendly, sustainable, and fully biodegradable materials. These material are often locally sourced, promoting and supporting local economies, or from certified suppliers.

Plain and Decorative Shroud Covers

The shroud can be topped with a plain or customised covering. The covers can be as decorative or simple as you wish. It’s lovely if family and friends get involved in creating these covers, or design the images themselves. The coverings can be kept as a reminder of their special person, or buried with them.

How Shrouds are Made

There are some wonderful artisans in the UK making truly beautiful shrouds using both traditional and modern methods. Many encourage family and friends to get involved in making or decorating the shroud. Here are some examples:

Find Further Helpful information About Choosing a Coffin or Shroud

For more about choosing a coffin or shroud, please go to our Information about Choosing a Coffin, Urn or Shroud.

Or for comprehensive information about planning a funeral, celebration of life, or memorials service, please see whiteballoon’s Funeral Planning Information.

Find Coffin and Shroud Suppliers in the whiteballoon Community

If you would like to find more suppliers of coffins and shrouds, please go to our Provider Directory for Coffins, Urns & Ashes.