WHAT IS A SHROUD?
A shroud is a piece of fabric used to gently wrap and cover a person or beloved animal companion after death. It is an age-old practice that has been part of funeral traditions across many cultures and generations, long before the widespread use of coffins and caskets.
Traditionally, the body is carefully wrapped in fabric, with the material folded, secured or tied to hold it in place. Usually three bindings are used. A shroud provides a simple, natural and dignified way to prepare someone for their final farewell.
Today, burial shrouds offer an alternative to conventional coffins and caskets, allowing families to choose a more personal, meaningful and, where suitable, environmentally conscious approach to caring for their loved one after death.
MORE THAN A FINAL WRAP
Choosing a shroud can be about much more than what someone is wrapped in. It can be an opportunity to honour a life, reflect an individual's personality and express the love and connection shared.
For some families, the simplicity of a shroud feels right. For others, it may be the opportunity to incorporate meaningful fabrics, colours, textures, personal details or natural elements that tell a little of their loved one's story.
There can also be something deeply personal about participating in the wrapping itself. With appropriate guidance and support, family members may choose to help wash, dress and wrap their loved one, allowing time for connection, tenderness and saying goodbye.
WHAT ARE BURIAL SHROUDS USED FOR?
Shrouds can be used for different types of final care, depending on the requirements of the facility and the materials used.
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Natural burial: A shroud made from suitable biodegradable materials may be used for burial in a natural burial ground, often with an approved timber bearer board.
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Conventional burial: Some cemeteries permit shroud burials, although their requirements may differ and a support board or other arrangement may be necessary.
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Flame cremation: Some crematoria accept shrouds as an alternative to a conventional coffin or casket, subject to their specific material, construction and presentation requirements.
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Aquamation(Water Cremation): Shrouds may also be used for aquamation, a water-based alternative to flame cremation. The facility must approve the shroud materials and any additional components beforehand.
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Pet farewells: A shroud can provide a gentle and meaningful way to wrap a cherished animal companion for their final journey.
WHAT ARE BURIAL SHROUDS MADE FROM?
Traditional shrouds are generally made from fabric that can be wrapped and secured around the body. Depending on their intended use, suitable materials may include natural fibres such as cotton, calico, linen, silk and wool.
The choice of fabric, stitching, bindings, dyes and decorative details is important. Requirements vary between burial grounds, crematoria and aquamation providers, particularly where environmental considerations or processing requirements are involved.
A DIFFERENT WAY TO SAY FAREWELL
A burial shroud offers an opportunity to return to a more personal and intimate way of caring for someone after death. It can be simple or decorative, traditional or contemporary, and can reflect the life, character and individuality of the one being farewelled.
At Luv Wraps, we see a shroud as more than a final garment. It is a way of bringing love, intention and personal meaning into one of life's most tender transitions.
Wrapped with love - Returned to nature 🌿
IMPORTANT: PLEASE CHECK BEFORE PURCHASING
Every crematorium, cemetery and natural burial site may have its own requirements regarding the acceptance of burial shrouds, permitted materials and the use of shroud bearer boards.
Before purchasing a Luv Wrap, we strongly recommend contacting your chosen facility or funeral director to confirm that your selected shroud is suitable for your intended farewell.
Please check whether a shroud bearer board is required. Also confirm that all fabrics meet the facility's requirements.
For more information about natural burials, visit the NZ Natural Burials website.
Acceptance and approval
Luv Wraps are individually designed and made with thoughtful consideration of materials and detail. However, acceptance is determined by the individual crematorium or burial site, not by the shroud maker.
Please obtain approval before purchasing to avoid disappointment at an already difficult time.
Shroud Bearer Boards & Straps
Coming Soon
When you view a Luv Wrap Shroud, the description will include symbols showing which farewell options it may be suitable for.
Choosing the right Shroud
Suitability at a Glance
Natural Burial
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Aquamation
(Water Cremation)
