Weaving Life and Death: The Art of Eco-Friendly Coffins cover art

Weaving Life and Death: The Art of Eco-Friendly Coffins

Weaving Life and Death: The Art of Eco-Friendly Coffins

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What if the way we say goodbye could heal both our hearts and the planet?

In this profound episode of Don't Be Caught Dead, we sit down with Zimmi Forest, fibre artist, environmentalist, and creator of handwoven eco-coffins that challenge everything we think we know about death. Zimmi doesn’t just make baskets; she crafts vessels that reconnect us to nature, turning invasive weeds into beautiful, biodegradable farewells.

From foraging materials in the wild to guiding families through the emotional process of weaving a loved one’s final resting place, Zimmi’s work is a powerful reminder that death doesn’t have to be disconnected from life’s natural cycles. Whether you’re curious about sustainable funerals or simply seeking a fresh perspective on mortality, this conversation will leave you inspired to rethink the way we honour those we’ve lost—and how we might one day be honoured ourselves.

Key points from our discussion:

  • Eco-conscious farewells: Why Zimmi swaps toxic funeral materials for invasive plants like cat’s claw vine.
  • The healing power of making: How weaving a coffin can transform grief into a sacred, communal act.
  • Beyond cremation: The surprisingly poetic case for natural burials (and what most people don’t know about ashes).
  • Death’s dirty secret: The greenwashing in funeral industries—and how to spot it.
  • Finding beauty in decay: Zimmi’s journey from artist to death educator, one handwoven stitch at a time.

Connect with Zimmi

Instagram

Website


Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine


Are your affairs in order? Critical Info helps you organise essential documents in just 10 minutes a day. Sign up now for early access! → criticalinfo.com.au/critical-info-platform

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Contact Catherine

Business Website:

https://dontbecaughtdead.com.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094865491683
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/critical_info_org/
LinkedIn Business Page: : https://www.linkedin.com/company/critical-info
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-ashton-73254528/

Podcast Editor: https://www.livvimusic.com/

Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/




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