Join us for a fun-filled (Yes! Really!) afternoon of adding plant colors and personality to your very own shroud.
A shroud is a natural fabric covering used in natural burial or in cremation. Shrouds represent one of the oldest, simplest, and most accessible forms of caring for our dead. In this workshop, participants will dye a shroud using locally gathered plants. Leaves and flowers from your own yard or other special places are also welcomed if you desire to add special place-based meaning to your shroud. We will place take time to place leaves on the shroud and then process the fabric to take up the nature dye.
While our plant-dyed shrouds are cooking, we will talk about the history of shrouding and how shrouds can be incorporated into end-of-life plans. We will practice different ways to wrap a shroud (on dolls and a life-sized model), and we will discuss the practical aspects of how shrouds can be used in home funerals, burial (conventional or natural/green), and cremation. We’ll also begin a discussion about planning for end of our life. For those interested in natural burial, we’ll discuss practical steps of how this process works in the state of Michigan.
Up to 2 loved ones/crafting helpers are welcome to join each participant, if desired. For those wishing to bring along their own leaves or flowers, the instructor will send out information about collection a few weeks before the workshop. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.
The workshop will be held at our farm in Dexter, Michigan. Although there is a flight of stairs, it can be easily accessed by an automated (and honestly rather fun) stairlift. The bathroom and entry way are also equipped with handrails. The instructor reserves the right to cancel (for a full refund) for illness, emergency, or if an inadequate number of participants register.