Top twelve things people tuck in the folds of a burial quilt

When my partner’s grandmother passed away (whom being from east Tennessee, we called Mamaw), I made a special embroidered piece of all her favorite things and slip it into her pocket before burial.

It has pashminas and her famous Oreo balls, gambling games, and a sewing supplies. The leaves are for the vast branches of the family she loved so well. It was so special to be able to make this and leave it with her before burial, but there are so many things people tuck away in the folds of a burial quilt. Here are a few ideas:

1. flowers

2. branches of leaves

3. herbs, especially lavender and sage

4. photos of loved ones

5. handmade gifts like the handkerchief above

6. stuffed animals

7. letters

8. jewelry

9. awards and honors

10. cremated remains of a loved one

11. favorite books

12. poems and song lyrics

I hope you found this list thoughtful and inspiring. If you’d like to talk more about burial quilts, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to email me.