When a friend told me about these great memorial jewelry pieces that included pet hair and ashes, I was super impressed with how unique and modern they were! I really like a clean, simple aesthetic, and these are so beautiful and meaningful while still being understated.
Get a 5% off coupon for Craft Love Craft Life on our Memorial Products page!
Tell us a bit about Craft Love Craft Life – how did you get started?
I started Craft Love Craft Life in late 2015, about 1 year after my dog Max passed away. Max is what inspired me to start creating memorial keepsakes for others. I actually created my first keepsake with Max’s hair whenever he was still alive as a way to feel connected with him when we weren’t together.
After his passing, I realized how important and treasured this piece was to me and that was when I started exploring jewelry making and the idea of working in the grief field. I now offer custom jewelry and keepsakes created from the client’s pet or loved one’s hair and/or ashes. I also offer personalized metal stamped keepsakes as well as grief support resources through my blog.
What kind of materials do you use in your memorial pieces?
Each memorial piece is created using a plant-based epoxy which is a safe and natural material that gives the finished product a beautiful result, similar to glass. Some pieces are wrapped in sterling silver wire and finished with a sterling silver chain. The whole process takes approximately 2 – 4 weeks depending on the piece and the client receives weekly photographic updates of their piece.
How much hair or ashes do people usually need to send you?
Each piece requires 1 – 2 small locks of hair (a little more if the hair is light in colour) and approximately 1/2 teaspoon of ashes. Clients can always send me a photo of the hair sample that they have and I will advise them how much to send. Of course, any unused hair and/or ashes are returned with their order.
I am located in Canada with 90% of my clients based in the US or internationally. Currently, I am only able to work with ashes from within Canada, the US, and the UK; due to border restrictions, I am unable to work with ashes from other countries.
With each order confirmation, I provide a shipping guideline document. I am also here to help you further with any shipping questions you may have. Besides hair and ashes, I also have worked with feathers, whiskers, nails, teeth, and a fabric swatch from a dog’s harness.
What are some of your most popular items?
Everyone is drawn to different pieces but over the years one of the most popular memorial pieces has been ‘Gone’ which is a circle pendant that has a cut-out heart. This piece, in particular, symbolizes that even though your beloved is gone, they will always have a piece of your heart. If you are unable to find the perfect design that I offer in store, feel free to contact me for a custom design. I absolutely love hearing your ideas and creating something completely custom for you.
Do you have any pets at the moment?
I have shared my life with many pets over the years, each that I treasure in my heart daily. Currently, I have a dachshund mix, Sadie, that my husband and I rescued in 2017. She is very timid and fearful, which we suspect is from her previous life experiences but as we work with her she is gaining more confidence. I just love her with my entire heart. She is truly amazing and has a pretty funny and sassy personality.
Working in the grief field can take an emotional toll on me and Sadie often senses when I need that extra comfort and support. I treasure each moment I share with her.
Thanks, Rebecca!
Get a 5% off coupon for Craft Love Craft Life on our Memorial Products page!