5 DIY memory projects to display something tangible

March 1, 2017

We all have little things that remind us of a loved one who has passed. It could be an old quilt, a rolling pin, an old tobacco pipe, or even their biker rag. Sometimes, the best way to keep these memories safe for years to come is by refurbishing them into something new – something that can be seen and even held.

Check out these 5 DIY ideas for turning something that belonged to your loved one into a conversation piece in your home.

No-sew pillows

A pillow is a great way to take an old shirt, piece of a blanket, or jacket that belonged to your loved one and making it into something you can see and use every day. The best part is that you don’t even need to know how to sew! Just find something of your loved one’s that would make good pillow fabric, cut it to size, and create a beautiful piece for your home.

Check out this tutorial for no-sew pillows  on youtube.

Frame a piece of their art

If your loved one was artistic, find a piece of their art and frame it. This works great for old drawings that were never framed or displayed, but that you don’t want to just throw away. Displaying it in your home lets you remember them every day.

Create a glowing photo luminary

A photo luminary is a type of lantern that has a space for a photograph. You can find kits to make them at most craft stores, or you can make your own with a few simple supplies. This is a great way to remember your loved one every day, and it’s also a great way to share their memory with others.  Here’s a DIY luminary tutorial.

Create a memorial planter

Do you enjoy having plants in your house? Use something of your loved one’s like a motorcycle helmet or old guitar and make a planter out of it.

Here is a tutorial on how to turn someone’s favorite book into a planter.

Take advantage of photography

Photography can be a powerful tool for remembering our loved ones. Framing an old photo or going a step further with a collage is a great way to gather all the best memories in one place.

For example…

No matter how you go about it, creating something for your home to remember your loved one can bring a lot of joy to your life and bring a sense of closure in your grieving.




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March 31, 2026
Planning ahead isn’t always something we naturally gravitate toward—especially when it comes to end-of-life decisions. It’s easy to put off, to say “someday,” or to assume there will always be more time. But preplanning your funeral or cremation arrangements is one of the most thoughtful and meaningful gifts you can leave behind for the people you love. What Is Preplanning? Preplanning is simply the process of making your final wishes known ahead of time. This can include decisions about burial or cremation, the type of service you’d like, music, readings, and even the small personal touches that reflect your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, even a simple plan written down can provide clarity and comfort when it’s needed most. Why More Families Are Choosing to Plan Ahead 1. It Relieves Emotional Burden When a loved one passes, families are often faced with dozens of decisions in a very short time, many of them while navigating deep grief. By preplanning, you remove that weight. Your family won’t have to wonder what you would have wanted, they’ll already know. 2. It Protects Your Family Financially Funeral costs can add up quickly depending on services selected. Preplanning gives you the opportunity to guarantee certain services and merchandise, avoid future inflation, and prevent overspending during emotional decision-making. 3. It Ensures Your Wishes Are Honored Every life is unique and every service should reflect that. When you plan ahead, you can choose burial or cremation, select meaningful music or readings, and include personal touches that tell your story. 4. It Gives You Time and Control Planning in advance allows you to make decisions thoughtfully and without pressure. There’s no urgency. No rushed decisions. Just clarity and confidence. 5. It Brings Peace of Mind Knowing everything is taken care of allows you to focus on what matters most: living fully and spending time with loved ones. Preplanning Doesn’t Have to Mean Prepaying You have options: document your wishes, set aside funds gradually, or explore pre-need plans or insurance options. Families are guided through these choices with no pressure—just support and information. A Simple Step Today Can Make All the Difference Tomorrow Preplanning is about easing the path for those you love. It gives them space to grieve, remember, and heal—without added stress. Ready to Learn More? Click here to get started. Whether you’re ready to start a plan or simply have questions, speaking with a preplanning specialist can help you explore your options in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. Because the greatest gift you can leave behind isn’t just memories—it’s peace of mind.
By Missy Hardenburg February 9, 2026
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