How to Fill Your Urn with Ashes

A Gentle Guide to Filling Your Cremation Urn

Easiest Option: Have the Crematorium Do It. If you're receiving ashes from a crematorium or funeral home, they can transfer the ashes into your urn for you. Just bring the urn to them—most offer this service at no charge.

If you're filling it yourself, follow the steps below. Take your time. There's no rush, and there's no wrong way to do this.

What's Included with Your Urn

Full-size urns:

  • Biodegradable plastic liner
  • Black satin pouch
  • Step-by-step instructions

Keepsake urns:

  • Biodegradable plastic liner
  • Step-by-step instructions

Materials layout - no lid

What You'll Also Need

  • The cremated remains (typically in a temporary container or plastic bag from the crematorium)
  • Face mask (to protect against fine ash particles. Ashes are very fine)
  • Scissors (to cut the crematorium's bag)
  • Small funnel (optional)
  • Soft cloth (for cleaning afterwards)
  • A quiet, private space

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Space

Choose a quiet, clean surface. Lay down a towel if you'd like. Put on your face mask before opening the ashes.

Take your time. This isn't something to rush.

2. Open the Urn

Gently lift the lid. Handle carefully.

3. Prepare the Bags

If you're keeping the urn indoors:

  1. Place the satin pouch inside the urn
  2. Place the plastic liner inside the satin pouch
  3. Open both bags so they're ready to receive the ashes

Tip: If the urn opening is wide, you may need to hold the bags in place with one hand while pouring with the other, or ask someone to help steady the bags.

If you're burying the urn:

Skip the bags. Pour ashes directly into the urn so they can return to earth naturally. Go to Step 4.

Step 4: Transfer the Ashes

Cut a small corner off the crematorium's plastic bag.

Slowly pour the ashes into the plastic liner (or directly into the urn if burying).

Pour steadily. If any spill, gently brush them back in with a soft cloth.

Pouring ashes - both bags visible

5. Seal the Bags

Tie or fold both bags closed securely.

If you poured directly into the urn for burial, skip this step.

6. Close and Seal the Urn

Place the lid back on gently.

Want to seal it permanently? Apply the included wood glue around the interior rim of the lid before closing. Once sealed, you won't be able to reopen it.

Don't seal if: You're traveling with the urn (TSA may need to inspect it) or you might want to open it later.

Glue application with bag tucked inside

7. Clean the Exterior

Wipe the outside with a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints or dust.

Important Notes

  • Wear a mask. Ashes are extremely fine and can irritate lungs if breathed in.
  • Take your time: If it feels overwhelming, step away and come back when you're ready.
  • Ask for help. This is emotional work. A trusted friend or family member can help.

Helpful Resources

[Size Guide →]
Make sure you chose the right capacity

[Care Instructions →]
How to care for your wooden urn

[FAQ →]
Common questions about urns, shipping, and more

[Browse Collection →]
See all of our handcrafted urns

Questions?

If you have any questions or need support, please don't hesitate to contact us.