At Heart and Soul Funerals, we believe that the way we say goodbye to those we care about should reflect our values and our connection to the world around us. As more families look for meaningful and environmentally conscious options for funerals, shrouds have become a beautiful alternative to traditional wooden coffins. One such option we are proud to offer is the Bellacouche shroud, made with care from natural materials, including pure British wool.
What is a Bellacouche Shroud?
Bellacouche shroud, such as the Leafcocoon, are crafted using 100% pure British wool felt. This wool is grown, processed, and transformed into felt in the UK, creating a truly local and sustainable product. Unlike traditional coffins that can feel rigid and detached, the Bellacouche shroud cocoons the body in layers of soft wool, offering a comforting and approachable alternative.
The Leafcocoon (burial version) has handles and a sturdy integrated frame. For cremation, the board is external and also has handles. This can also be useful if you are going to store it for some time as the shroud can be protected from moth by rolling it up and putting in a plastic or vacuum bag.
Not only that but the Leafcocoon is now accredited and can be used in crematoria as well.
Why Choose a Shroud Coffin?
A Deeper Connection
Families who choose a shroud often speak of feeling more connected to the person who has died. The soft, natural materials help create a sense of closeness, which can ease the process of saying goodbye and assist in accepting the reality of death. The comforting nature of the wool cocoon, without the rigidness of traditional coffins, allows families to engage with the natural cycle of life and death in a more personal way.
Families can arrange to decorate the cover, either by appointment at the workshop in Chagford, or Yuli can send a kit with links to online tuition.
Environmental Benefits
The Bellacouche shrouds are entirely plastic-free and made from 100% biodegradable materials, including wool, wood, and natural cotton or linen threads. By avoiding synthetic materials and plastics, these shrouds offer a low-impact, eco-friendly alternative. The wool itself is sourced from certified organic and regenerative farms, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint.
The Leafcocoon is approximately two-thirds lighter than a conventional coffin, reducing material use and promoting quicker decomposition by allowing the body to come into direct contact with the earth. This promotes the natural cycle of return, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a green burial.
The Tradition of Shrouds
Historically, shrouds were made from woven fabrics such as wool, linen, hemp, or cotton. These traditional materials would show the natural shape of the body, a concept that can be challenging for many of us in modern Western cultures. Today, shrouds are often placed in coffins to ease discomfort around the visibility of the body. However, the Bellacouche shroud gently wraps the body without revealing its shape, offering a balance of comfort, modesty, and tradition.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The sustainability of Bellacouche shrouds extends far beyond the materials. Bellacouche is dedicated to minimising waste and reusing resources wherever possible. Offcuts from the felt are used to make other products, such as insoles, or are shared with local crafters. Felt scraps are composted, contributing to the soil at the end of their useful life. Even their tiny, recycled van is shared with others to reduce environmental impact.
Additionally, Bellacouche sources its wool from local, organic, and regenerative farms such as Fernhill Farm in Somerset. These farms uphold high standards of animal welfare and biodiversity, using holistic grazing methods that contribute to soil health and the environment.
Making a Positive Choice for the Earth
Choosing a Bellacouche shroud for a natural burial offers a respectful way to honour the cycle of life and death while making a positive impact on the earth. The wool cocoon cradles the body gently, with reduced environmental impact and a stronger connection to nature.
Whether you’re planning a natural burial or simply looking for a way to honour your loved one’s life with sustainability in mind, Bellacouche shrouds are a beautiful, thoughtful choice. We at Heart and Soul Funerals are here to guide and support you in making the best decision for your family and the environment.
For more information about our range of shrouds, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are committed to providing compassionate care and sustainable options for all families.
