DIY Coffin: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Resting Place

While it might seem morbid to some, building your own coffin can be a deeply personal and empowering experience. It allows you to take control of your final arrangements, ensuring that your last vessel reflects your values and preferences. This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions on how to build a simple, dignified coffin using readily available materials and basic woodworking skills. Please note that local regulations regarding burial containers vary significantly. It’s crucial to research and comply with all applicable laws and cemetery requirements before beginning this project.

Why Build Your Own Coffin?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to build their own coffin:

• Cost Savings: Traditional coffins can be surprisingly expensive. Building your own can significantly reduce funeral costs.
• Personalization: You have complete control over the design, materials, and finish, creating a truly unique and personalized resting place.
• Environmental Concerns: You can choose sustainable and biodegradable materials, minimizing your environmental impact.
• A Meaningful Project: The process of building a coffin can be a therapeutic and meaningful way to contemplate life and mortality.
• Religious or Philosophical Beliefs: Certain religious or philosophical traditions may encourage or require custom burial containers.

Disclaimer

Safety First! This project involves woodworking and the use of power tools. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, ear protection, and a dust mask. Work in a well-ventilated area. If you are not comfortable using power tools, seek assistance from someone with experience. This guide is for informational purposes only. The author and publisher are not responsible for any injuries, damages, or legal issues arising from the use of this information. Check with your local authorities, funeral homes, and cemeteries regarding regulations and acceptance of homemade coffins.

Materials and Tools

The following list includes the materials and tools needed to build a basic, rectangular coffin. You can adjust the dimensions and materials to suit your preferences. Remember to consider the weight and size of the intended occupant when selecting materials.

Materials:

• Wood: ¾-inch thick plywood is a common and affordable choice for the sides, bottom, and lid. Pine, cedar, or other solid wood can also be used for a more traditional look. Consider using sustainably sourced wood. Approximately 4′ x 8′ sheet of plywood will be needed, depending on coffin dimensions.
• Wood Screws: 1 ½-inch wood screws for assembling the sides, bottom, and lid. Use exterior-grade screws if the coffin will be exposed to the elements. Quantity: Approximately 100.
• Wood Glue: Provides a strong and durable bond between the wood pieces. Exterior-grade glue is recommended.
• Sandpaper: Various grits (80, 120, 220) for smoothing the wood surfaces.
• Wood Finish: Paint, stain, varnish, or other protective finish of your choice. Consider using a natural or non-toxic finish.
• Handles (Optional): Metal or wooden handles for carrying the coffin. Choose handles that are strong and durable.
• Lining Material (Optional): Fabric, such as cotton, linen, or muslin, for lining the inside of the coffin.
• Bedding (Optional): Padding, such as cotton batting, wool, or straw, for cushioning the bottom of the coffin.
• Hinges (Optional): If you want a hinged lid. Two or three hinges will likely suffice.
• Latches or Fasteners (Optional): To keep the lid securely closed.
• Wood Putty (Optional): For filling nail holes and imperfections.
• Measuring Tape: For precise measurements.
• Pencil: For marking cut lines.

Tools:

• Circular Saw or Table Saw: For cutting the wood to size. A handsaw can be used, but it will require more time and effort.
• Drill/Driver: For pre-drilling holes and driving screws.
• Sander: For smoothing the wood surfaces. An orbital sander is recommended.
• Clamps: For holding the wood pieces together while the glue dries.
• Square: For ensuring that the corners are square.
• Safety Glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from flying debris.
• Ear Protection: Essential for protecting your ears from loud noise.
• Dust Mask: Essential for protecting your lungs from sawdust.
• Paintbrushes or Rags: For applying the wood finish.
• Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the lining material (if using).
• Staple Gun (Optional): For attaching the lining material.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to build a basic, rectangular coffin:

Step 1: Determine the Dimensions

The first step is to determine the appropriate dimensions for the coffin. Measure the length, width, and height of the intended occupant. Add a few inches to each dimension to allow for comfortable fit and any desired padding or bedding. A general guideline is to add 6 inches to the length, 4 inches to the width, and 4 inches to the height.

Example:

• Occupant Height: 5’10” (70 inches)
• Occupant Width (Shoulders): 18 inches
• Occupant Depth (Chest): 12 inches

Calculated Coffin Dimensions:

• Length: 70 inches + 6 inches = 76 inches
• Width: 18 inches + 4 inches = 22 inches
• Height: 12 inches + 4 inches = 16 inches

Adjust these dimensions based on personal preferences and the size of the occupant.

Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces

Using a circular saw or table saw, cut the wood pieces according to the dimensions you determined in Step 1. You will need the following pieces:

• Bottom: One piece, 76 inches long x 22 inches wide (using the example dimensions).
• Sides: Two pieces, 76 inches long x 16 inches high.
• Ends: Two pieces, 22 inches wide x 16 inches high.
• Lid: One piece, slightly larger than the bottom (e.g., 77 inches long x 23 inches wide) to allow for a slight overhang.

Ensure that the cuts are straight and accurate. Use a square to check the corners.

Step 3: Assemble the Box

This step involves assembling the sides, ends, and bottom to form the main box of the coffin.

1. Apply Wood Glue: Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the edges of the bottom piece where the sides and ends will be attached.
2. Position the Sides and Ends: Position the side pieces along the long edges of the bottom piece, and the end pieces at the short edges. Make sure the pieces are flush and square.
3. Clamp the Pieces: Use clamps to hold the sides and ends securely against the bottom piece. Ensure the corners are square while clamping.
4. Pre-Drill Holes: Before driving screws, pre-drill pilot holes through the sides and ends into the bottom. This prevents the wood from splitting. Space the holes about 6-8 inches apart.
5. Drive Screws: Drive wood screws through the pre-drilled holes to secure the sides and ends to the bottom.
6. Let the Glue Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24 hours).

After the glue has dried, remove the clamps.

Step 4: Reinforce the Corners (Optional)

For added strength, you can reinforce the corners of the box with wood glue and screws.

1. Apply Wood Glue: Apply wood glue to the inside corners of the box.
2. Drive Screws: Drive screws through the sides and ends into the corner joints.

This step is particularly important if you are using a thinner or weaker type of wood.

Step 5: Sand the Surfaces

Sand all the exterior and interior surfaces of the box to remove any rough edges or splinters. Start with 80-grit sandpaper to remove any major imperfections, then move to 120-grit and finally 220-grit for a smooth finish.

Use a sanding block or orbital sander for best results. Be sure to wear a dust mask to protect your lungs from sawdust.

Step 6: Finish the Wood

Apply the wood finish of your choice to the exterior and interior surfaces of the box. This will protect the wood from moisture and enhance its appearance.

• Paint: Provides a solid color finish. Apply several coats for best results.
• Stain: Enhances the natural grain of the wood. Apply stain evenly and wipe off any excess.
• Varnish: Provides a clear, protective coating. Apply several coats for best results.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific finish you are using. Allow the finish to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 7: Attach the Lid

There are several ways to attach the lid to the box:

• Simple Lid: The lid can simply rest on top of the box, held in place by its own weight. This is the easiest option.
• Hinged Lid: Attach hinges to one side of the lid and the corresponding side of the box. This allows the lid to be opened and closed.
• Fastened Lid: Use latches, screws, or other fasteners to secure the lid to the box.

For a Hinged Lid:

1. Position the Hinges: Position the hinges along one edge of the lid and the corresponding edge of the box. Space the hinges evenly apart.
2. Mark the Screw Holes: Mark the location of the screw holes on the lid and the box.
3. Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill pilot holes at the marked locations.
4. Attach the Hinges: Attach the hinges to the lid and the box using screws.

For a Fastened Lid:

1. Position the Latches/Fasteners: Position the latches or fasteners around the perimeter of the lid and the box.
2. Mark the Screw Holes: Mark the location of the screw holes on the lid and the box.
3. Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill pilot holes at the marked locations.
4. Attach the Latches/Fasteners: Attach the latches or fasteners to the lid and the box using screws.

Step 8: Add Handles (Optional)

If you want to add handles to the coffin, choose handles that are strong and durable. Position the handles on the sides of the box, near the ends. Attach the handles using screws or bolts.

1. Position the Handles: Decide where you want the handles to be placed on the sides of the coffin. Consider ergonomics for lifting.
2. Mark the Screw Holes: Mark the location of the screw holes on the coffin sides.
3. Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill pilot holes at the marked locations.
4. Attach the Handles: Attach the handles to the sides of the coffin using screws or bolts. Make sure they are securely fastened.

Step 9: Line the Interior (Optional)

Lining the interior of the coffin with fabric can make it more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

1. Measure the Interior: Measure the interior dimensions of the box.
2. Cut the Fabric: Cut the fabric according to the measurements. Allow for extra fabric to wrap around the edges.
3. Attach the Fabric: Attach the fabric to the interior of the box using a staple gun or fabric glue. Wrap the edges of the fabric around the edges of the box for a clean finish.

Choose a fabric that is soft and comfortable, such as cotton, linen, or muslin.

Step 10: Add Bedding (Optional)

Adding padding or bedding to the bottom of the coffin can provide cushioning and support.

1. Choose Bedding Material: Select a suitable bedding material, such as cotton batting, wool, or straw.
2. Cut the Bedding Material: Cut the bedding material to fit the bottom of the coffin.
3. Place the Bedding Material: Place the bedding material in the bottom of the coffin.

Ensure that the bedding material is evenly distributed and provides adequate cushioning.

Alternative Designs and Materials

The instructions above describe how to build a basic, rectangular coffin. However, there are many other designs and materials you can use.

• Curved Coffin: You can create a curved coffin by using flexible plywood or by shaping the sides with steam.
• Woven Coffin: You can weave a coffin using natural materials such as willow, bamboo, or reeds.
• Cardboard Coffin: You can build a coffin from reinforced cardboard. This is a lightweight and eco-friendly option.
• Solid Wood Coffin: Using solid wood planks, such as pine, cedar, or oak, will produce a more traditional and durable coffin. This requires more skill and specialized tools.

Experiment with different designs and materials to create a coffin that is truly unique and personalized.

Important Considerations

Before you start building your own coffin, it is important to consider the following:

• Local Regulations: Check with your local authorities, funeral homes, and cemeteries regarding regulations and acceptance of homemade coffins. Some jurisdictions may have specific requirements for burial containers.
• Weight Capacity: Ensure that the coffin is strong enough to support the weight of the intended occupant.
• Cemetery Requirements: Some cemeteries may have specific requirements for the size and construction of coffins.
• Transportation: Consider how you will transport the coffin to the funeral home or cemetery.
• Burial Depth: Ensure that the coffin will be buried at the required depth.
• Environmental Impact: Choose sustainable and biodegradable materials to minimize your environmental impact.

Conclusion

Building your own coffin can be a rewarding and empowering experience. It allows you to take control of your final arrangements and create a truly unique and personalized resting place. By following these instructions and considering the important factors outlined above, you can build a dignified and respectful coffin that reflects your values and preferences. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the process and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.