Every Process Is Important
In every area of our business, attention to detail is paramount. From the earliest days of our family-run workshop, craftsmanship and care have been at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s a woven basket from our lifestyle ranges, a commissioned item, or a carefully handcrafted coffin, we ensure every product leaving our premises reflects the high standards we’ve upheld for over four generations. From the complexity of the weave to the standard of the fittings and the service we provide, no detail is ever overlooked.
Our Natural Woven range of sustainable coffins also reflects these high standards. Sourced from the Indonesian island of Java, the collection offers customers an array of unique materials and a price-conscious alternative without compromising on quality. While handcrafted overseas, each coffin must meet the same high expectations we apply to all our products. To do this, we work closely with long-standing suppliers to ensure every coffin is made with care, consistency, and precision. From the manufacture in Indonesia to the final inspection at our premises, each stage plays a vital role in delivering a product that is both beautiful and can be depended upon.
The meticulous process of crafting our Seagrass coffin, our most popular style, begins with its strong rattan framework, shaped into either a curved or traditional shape and built upon a sturdy wooden base for both strength and stability. Strands of cane are woven from the base, around which the weaving process begins. A short band of cane waling is woven at the bottom, followed by natural seagrass yarns forming the body of the coffin.
A central band of cane is incorporated for definition before weaving continues in seagrass, then neatly finished with a cane border. The lid is crafted to fit exactly and, for traditional shapes, is adorned with a handwoven three-strand plait made from 5 pieces of cane in each strand. Throughout the process, only natural materials are used.
Once in-house at Somerset Willow, each coffin undergoes a thorough quality check by our team. Every coffin is carefully unpacked and inspected by hand for any damage that may have occurred during transit, or quality issues during manufacture. Once approved, we add the final finishing touches. Two internal linings are fitted — beginning with a biodegradable cornstarch waterproof liner, followed by a soft calico cotton liner.
Solid oak nameplates are engraved and applied before the coffin is securely packaged in protective card, ready for its onward journey to our customers.
Every Natural Woven Coffin is fully FFMA approved, having passed rigorous testing by the Funeral Furnishings Manufacturers’ Association. This includes assessments for structural strength, ignition, ash volume, handle integrity, residue, and leakage, ensuring each product meets high industry standards. We are also proud members of several leading funeral associations, including the National Association of Funeral Directors, the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors, and the Funeral Suppliers’ Association, helping us stay aligned with best practices and evolving industry regulations.
At Somerset Willow, we know that excellence isn’t achieved through one single step — it’s the result of a combination of different qualities at every stage. From the hands that weave every strand to the final quality check before dispatch, every process plays a crucial role in upholding the standards reflected upon us. It’s this consistent attention to detail that ensures each piece is not only beautifully crafted but truly dependable. Because for us, every detail matters, and every process is important.