Short answer: To commission a custom memorial, decide what you want to remember, find a maker whose past work you like, share a clear brief, get a written quote and agreement, approve proofs along the way, and check the finished piece. Go slowly, and put everything in writing.
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What does it mean to commission a memorial?
Please read this first
Funeral Clear does not make or sell these items yet. We are collecting requests and will try to match families with independent makers. We cannot promise a reply time or that a maker will be available for your idea.
To commission something means to ask a maker to create a piece for you, to your brief. It is a small project with a start, a middle and an end. You are the client, and you are entitled to clear answers.
Most commissions follow the same simple path: idea, maker, brief, quote, agreement, proofs, finished piece. It does not have to be hurried, and you can pause at any step.
This guide is useful with any independent maker, whether you find one yourself or we are able to help you find one later.
How do I decide what to make?
Start with what you want the piece to do. Is it to sit in a room, to be worn, to mark a place, or to share among relatives? Our hub lists the main options, from sculpture to quilts.
- Write down three or four things you want it to say about the person.
- Collect the photos, objects or words you want to use.
- Think about who will see it, and where it will live.
- Talk with close family, since a piece can mean a lot to many people.
How do I find and check a maker?
You do not need to find the best-known maker. You need one who listens, explains clearly and treats the subject with respect. The first call or email tells you a lot about that.
Look for makers whose past work moves you. Ask your funeral home, faith community or local arts groups for names. Then check carefully.
- Look at a portfolio of finished pieces.
- Read reviews on independent sites, not just the maker's own.
- Ask for a past client who will talk to you, if possible.
- Check that they can describe their process in plain English.
What should be in the brief, quote and agreement?
A clear brief avoids misunderstandings. A written agreement protects you and the maker.
- What will be made, with size and material
- What you will supply, and when
- Proofs, sketches or samples you will see
- How many changes are included
- Price, itemised, with payment stages
- An estimated timeline, described as an estimate
- Who owns photos, files and copyright
- Refunds, cancellation and remakes
- Delivery, packing and insurance
If something is not in writing, it is easy to forget later. An email thread that confirms each point is often enough, but a short contract is better for larger or costly pieces.
Be wary of any maker who is unwilling to put basic terms in writing. Be wary, too, of paying the full price before any work has been shown. A deposit is common, but its size and the refund terms should be clear.
How do I approve work along the way?
Good makers share work at key points, such as a sketch, a clay model, a digital preview or a sample. This is the best time to ask for changes, because it is cheaper and easier.
Keep your feedback specific. Instead of saying it does not look right, point to the nose, the colour or the wording, and say what you would like instead. Makers can act on that, and it keeps the process kind for both sides.
Look at names, dates and spellings with care. Ask someone else to read them. If something feels wrong, say so kindly and early.
What if something goes wrong?
Most projects go well. If yours does not, start by writing to the maker, describing the problem and what you would like. Keep photos, messages and receipts. If you paid by card, your card provider may have a dispute process.
If the problem is a mistake, such as a misspelled name, most makers will fix it. If it is a disagreement about quality, refer back to the agreement and the proofs you approved. This is another reason to keep everything in writing.
Take your time deciding. Anger and sadness are common when a keepsake disappoints, and it is fine to step back for a day before replying.
How do I handle delivery and the time after?
Many people find that the finished piece stirs up feelings they did not expect. That is normal. You may want to open it with someone close, and to place it somewhere you can look at it when you choose to, not somewhere you cannot avoid.
Open the package with a friend or in a private moment. Check the piece against the agreement. Tell the maker promptly if there is any damage.
Keep the agreement, the care instructions and any certificate in a folder. If a piece used your photos or scans, ask the maker to confirm deletion of files in writing.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I start?
Whenever you are ready. Most memorials have no deadline, and waiting is common.
Should I pay a deposit?
Many makers ask for one. Make sure the terms and refund conditions are in writing.
What if I do not like the result?
Ask about changes, remakes and refunds before you begin, and look at proofs along the way.
Can Funeral Clear choose a maker for me?
We do not make or sell these yet. We are collecting requests and will try to match families with independent makers, with no promise.
How do I choose a trustworthy maker of memorial keepsakes?
A trustworthy maker will explain clearly how they handle ashes, what they charge, and what you will receive. Look for clear pricing, written policies for chain of custody, return of unused ashes, and a way to contact them by phone or email. Reviews can help, but check more than one source. Be cautious of any maker that pressures you or is unclear about shipping or insurance. What to ask: ask how the ashes are tracked, how long production takes, what the warranty is, and what happens if you are not satisfied. Funeral Clear does not make these items.
What keepsakes can be made from a loved one's ashes?
Several kinds of keepsakes can be made from a small portion of ashes, and many families choose them as a personal way to remember a loved one. Options include jewelry, glass art, keepsake urns, memorial stones, and pressed or sealed pieces. A small amount of ashes is usually enough. Funeral Clear does not manufacture or sell memorial products at this time, and this page is for information and referral only. What to ask: ask any artist or maker how much of the ashes they need, how the item is made, and how the ashes are handled and returned.
Is 3D printing a memorial safe and private?
3D printed memorials, such as a small figure or a model of a hand or face, can be meaningful, but privacy deserves a few questions. A provider may use photos, scans, or measurements, and those files could be stored or shared. Ask before you send anything. Some products may also include a small amount of ashes mixed into material. Funeral Clear does not produce 3D printed memorials, and this is information only. What to ask: ask what data the provider collects, how long it is kept, whether it is deleted on request, and whether it is used for any other purpose.
Does Funeral Clear sell memorial products?
No, Funeral Clear does not manufacture or sell memorial products at this time. Our memorial pages provide information about the types of keepsakes that exist and the questions to ask, and we may help you find a provider. We are not a funeral home or a memorial maker. What to do: use our pages to learn what options exist, compare makers on price and how they handle ashes, and read each company's policies before you buy. If we add products or partners later, we will describe how we are paid on the relevant page.
What are low-cost ways to create a lasting memorial?
Meaningful memorials do not have to be expensive, and many families choose simple and personal ideas. Examples include a memory book, a framed photo collage, a shadow box, a donation to a charity in the person's name, a tree or garden planting, or a dedicated family recipe night. An online memorial page can gather photos and stories from far-away friends. What to do: choose something that reflects your loved one's interests, invite family and friends to contribute a memory, and set a modest budget so the memorial feels like comfort rather than pressure.
Can ashes be made into jewelry?
Yes, a small amount of cremated remains can be sealed in or incorporated into jewelry such as pendants, rings, or bracelets. Some designs hold ashes in a small chamber, while others blend them into glass or resin. Prices vary widely by material and craftsmanship. Funeral Clear does not make or sell jewelry, and we provide information only. What to ask: ask the maker how the ashes are handled, whether you can send a small amount or deliver them in person, what is returned to you, and what the return and repair policies are.
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