Building urns

[BB1]

New to this site and thought given the focus, I would share some projects that have led to some donations for veterans.

 

Earlier this year I decided to make my own urn. No current health concerns so more of a “planning ahead” situation. My favorite wood is walnut, so that was an easy decision on raw materials. I did quite a bit of background research on the size required, as well as what is allowed at the cemetery where this will be buried. I was able to purchase one of the temporary black plastic boxes from a local crematorium that is typically used to return ashes to families. I designed my urn so that this plastic box can just slide in from the bottom which is then screwed in place.

 

The top has a bevel and is in a groove on the top to allow for wood movement. I used space balls to help center the top and then only glued in the middle of the ends. I finished it with Odie’s Oil which is my favorite on walnut. 

 

When I finished mine, my husband asked me to make his as well. He picked out a beautiful walnut board and I was able to do a resaw to allow a four-corner grain wrap. This did leave me with thinner boards than was ideal, so I added walnut to the top and bottom to allow for a groove for the top and then sufficient surface to screw in the bottom. He liked the contrast with maple so his urn has some added features, plus a cross on the top.

 

After these, I also built one for a good friend. She took features from the prior two and the outcome was nice – also walnut with some really pretty grain.

 

I have wanted to use my woodworking for others, and I contacted a local group that works with veterans. Although not something they normally had provided, I offered to make some urns and they were receptive to that idea. One I made from boards I had on hand. Another one was made with some walnut that a local mill donated.

 

 

Having lost my dad (a veteran) a few years ago, I know how overwhelming all the decisions can be related to final arrangements. I’m hopeful these urns can be given to families to ease some of the financial burden.

 

Anyway, that’s a peak at some of my more recent projects. I’m currently reorganizing and repairing a pole barn that will allow my shop area to expand. I have found that I’m more into woodworking than construction (haha…some water repair and getting a wall “redone” where an old AC unit was pulled in prep for a new minisplit has been a challenge!!).  Looking forward to exploring the content on this site and being involved.

 

Please let me know if this post is appropriate or in the right place.

[Fred W. Hargis Jr]

Wow, those are really nice. I especially love the 4 corner grain wrap you did one the husband's urn. I am looking for urn ideas at the moment, but for a pet instead of a person.  As for the correct forum, I'm not sure how this couldn't be the right one but I'm not the decider. Also: welcome to the forum. 

[BB1]

Thanks Fred! I agree that the grain on my husband's is really nice. I had lined up the walnut boards I had to let him pick - and his selection sure proved to have a really distinct grain pattern that worked out so well for the urn. 

 

Note that from my research, each 1 pound equates to 1 cubic inch. Hopefully that's helpful as you construct your pet's urn.

[DAB]

nice.

 

made ours (my wife passed away just over 3 years ago) out of some nice cherry.

[lew]

Beautiful work!  This forum gets lots of views. Thanks for sharing with us!

[Gunny]

Beautiful work, have to look into your idea of putting ashes ion from bottom.  Did my Dad's from the top.

[BB1]

2 hours ago, Gunny said:

Beautiful work, have to look into your idea of putting ashes ion from bottom.

Very special to make the urn for your dad. 

 

I saw one in a YouTube build that had a hinged lid where the persons glasses, watch, and pocket knife were placed in a tray above a closed off section below for the ashes. Here's the link to that video:

 

[Gunny]

[Grandpadave52]

On 10/26/2025 at 4:11 PM, BB1 said:

New to this site and thought given the focus, I would share some projects that have led to some donations for veterans.

First, welcome to The Patriot Woodworker Barbara. Glad you found us and came aboard. Looking forward to seeing more of your magnificent work.

 

Fearful of sounding morbid, but your work and designs are excellent. Let's hope the need for them is a long time from now. Blessings to you for your thoughtful gesture to provide for the needs of your local veterans as well.

 

Hope to see pictures of your revamped shop space in soon.

[BB1]

23 minutes ago, Grandpadave52 said:

 

Hope to see pictures of your revamped shop space in soon.

I can't wait to get the shop back in working order. Making progress, although slow. 

 

Appreciate the warm welcome.