Hello from a willow coffin weaver

I'm Sophia, founder of Woven Farewell Coffins, and willow coffin weaver in East Devon.

How I became a willow coffin weaver

My journey into this work wasn't planned. It began with grief.

When our mum died in 2012, we were lucky enough to have lots of support from the funeral directors Arka Funerals, our community of friends, and Living Well Dying Well founder Hermione Elliott and her team. I knew after that, that I wanted to support others through the funeral sector.

I started weaving as a mental health support at the time of our mum's dying, thanks to award winning basketmaker Anne-Marie O'Sullivan for starting me off!

Six years later, life threw more at me. Another bereavement. My firstborn arriving. And suddenly this thought that wouldn't leave: life's too fleeting not to do what we love.

That's when Woven Farewell Coffins was born.

Why willow coffins matter

Every coffin I weave carries intention. These aren't just products – they're vessels for someone's final journey, handcrafted with sustainable materials that return gently to the earth.

Working from my barn workshop in the Devon hills, I use Somerset-grown willow and biodegradable materials. Each coffin is woven entirely by hand, using traditional basketry techniques passed down through generations.

What makes this work special is the connection. Families can visit my workshop in Devon or our East Midlands location with Abi. They can weave part of their loved one's coffin themselves. No experience needed – just open hearts and willing hands.

Beyond the weaving

Running Woven Farewell means wearing many hats. Between weaving coffins, teaching workshops, managing accounts, and raising two young children, life is beautifully full.

We're one of the only UK coffin companies donating to charity – 5% of profits go to the Woodland Trust. Because death and life are interconnected, and giving back to the earth matters.

Looking forward

My hope for Woven Farewell is simple: to make sustainable farewells accessible across the UK. Whether you're a family seeking a meaningful goodbye or a funeral director looking for eco-friendly options, we're here.

From my workshop to yours, thank you for considering willow coffins. Together, we're creating farewells that honor both life and earth.

Sophia Campbell-Shaw Woven Farewell Coffins, East Devon