Shrouds: Rituals of making and wrapping

A workshop exploring the ancient practice and creative possibilities of using shrouds to carry and care for our dead with artist and death doula Rachel Hawthorn.

What if, after we die, we were wrapped, rather than boxed? The softness and flow of fabric creating a gentle outline, instead of a hard, solid barrier and straight lines. Closing rituals of covering, wrapping, tucking and tying, taking time and being with our person after they have died, honouring them, honouring our love and connection.

There is something about the quiet simplicity and integrity of a shroud, and the ritual possibilities it holds, that offers an intriguing alternative to a coffin. But shrouds are an uncommon choice just now, and maybe we would feel unsure about how this would all work.

This workshop is an opportunity to come together to explore the ideas and possibilities of shrouds, to share wisdom and to practice together, reimagining and rediscovering this ancient practice and how it can support us today.

In this session we will explore together:

• What a shroud is and where the idea comes from
• Why we might choose a shroud instead of a coffin
• Materials and fabrics that can be used for shrouds
• Creative processes that can be used in shroud making
• Designs and techniques for wrapping
• How making and using shrouds can support us in being with death and grief

We will have time for sharing, for some hands-on creative activities, and for shrouding practice. I will bring examples of shrouds that I have made and some scale models to show how different shroud designs work. We will explore the idea of ritual and how shrouding can support us to hold tender space for ourselves and others in times of loss.

This event will also include a screening of Rachel’s film, The Luddenden Shroud.

Find out more about Rachel’s work at rachelhawthorn.co.uk

Feedback from previous participants:

“A wonderful insight and journey into the origins of the shroud and its uses in history and beyond.”

“Highly recommend this day course - I wish it was a monthly gathering!”

“A beautiful part of re-weaving and re-membering our ancient ways. The interconnectedness of life and death, the importance of community care, and figuring out how to incorporate these rituals in the modern day.”

“Reclaiming a rite that has been lost. Thank you so much Rachel! This has been really special.”

“Rachel facilitated the shroud workshop beautifully and there was such rich sharing from the participants too. It was glorious to be in the presence of people who work with people who are dying or have died and talk all around the subject. All thoughts were welcomed; strong and potentially challenging ideas were welcomed; those who didn’t feel comfortable sharing were welcomed. It was just lovely.”