Yes, it is possible to have your ashes turned into a vinyl record. This unique memorial option allows people to be remembered in an intimate, personal way through sound. The process involves cremating the remains and then pressing them into a vinyl record. Songs, voice recordings, or other audio can be added so when the record is played, the deceased person’s voice and memories will literally spin. This provides families and friends a meaningful, lasting memento of their loved one.
How are ashes turned into a record?
The process of turning ashes into a playable vinyl record involves several key steps:
Cremation
The deceased is cremated, reducing the body to bone fragments and ashes. The cremains (cremated remains) are processed into a fine powder consistency optimal for pressing into vinyl. Typically, 2-6 cups of cremains powder are required to press one 12-inch record.
Mixing
The cremains powder is measured and mixed together with a binding agent to help properly press and hold the ashes into the vinyl. Additional coloring may be added if desired.
Pressing
The cremains mixture is poured into the vinyl press. It is pressed at high heat and pressure between the grooved plates, forming the vinyl disc shape. The grooves are imprinted into the ashes mixture to create the playable audio signal when used on a turntable.
Audio mastering
Audio files of desired songs, voice recordings, or audio messages are mastered and processed to prepare the audio signal for cutting into the vinyl grooves. This audio will play when the final record is used.
Cutting
The audio signal is amplified and cut into the surface of the vinyl record using a specialized machine with a cutter stylus. This imprints the desired audio performance into the record’s grooves.
Labels and sleeves
Labels can be designed and affixed to the center of the record detailing names, dates, graphics, or messages as desired. The cremains vinyl can be enclosed in a decorative record sleeve and protective inner lining as well.
What can be put on the cremains audio record?
There are many possibilities for the type of audio content to include on a cremains vinyl record. Typical options include:
Music
Songs that held special meaning for the deceased or were their favorites can be mastered onto the record. This allows hearing their cherished music and fond memories each time the record is played.
Spoken word
Voice recordings of the deceased telling stories, giving advice, or sharing memories can be added. This preserves their voice and lets them literally speak to loved ones when listening to the record.
Family and friends
Loved ones can record audio messages saying goodbye, sharing memories, reading poetry, or anything else they wish to include for the deceased. This adds a highly personal, meaningful element.
Sound effects
Ambient sounds like ocean waves, birds chirping, or other noises reminiscent of places with personal significance can be added. These evocative sounds transport listeners to special times and locations.
Silence
Moments of silence can also be moving. The sound of the record needle on the cremains surface may be enough without any audio content.
How much does it cost to make ashes into a record?
Costs to convert ashes into playable vinyl records can range from $3000-$5000 or more depending on options chosen. Factors affecting the price include:
- Base service fee – Starts around $3000 depending on the vinyl service provider
- Extra track time – Additional costs for more audio content time added
- Specialty packages – Deluxe packaging options available for an added fee
- Shipping fees – Cremains and finished records must be shipped to/from the vinyl pressing company
Additional customization like unique label art, colored vinyl, or higher quantities can also increase the overall costs. However, the ability to memorialize and remember loved ones through this highly personalized vinyl record is often considered priceless by those who commission the service.
Where can you get ashes pressed into a record?
There are a few specialty companies available globally that provide vinyl cremains record pressing services:
And Vinyly – England
One of the first companies offering vinyl cremains records. They craft beautiful custom records with printed sleeves, artwork, and audio mastering.
LiveOn – Canada
Based in Toronto, LiveOn presses eco-friendly records, including plantable cremains vinyl embedded with seed paper.
Vinyly – USA
An American vinyl pressing company creating custom cremains records with original art and messages.
Vinyl Tribute Company – Australia
An Australian service pressing cremains from around the world into vinyls with printed sleeves.
Localized vinyl studios
Some local vinyl pressing boutiques offer cremains vinyl options. Funeral homes may partner with vinyl services as well.
What are some tips for making a meaningful cremains audio record?
Here are some tips to help create a deeply meaningful keepsake cremains record:
- Choose songs carefully – Select music with significance and meaning
- Record personalized messages – Capture spoken thoughts and memories
- Consider ambient sounds – Add subtle sound effects relating to fond memories
- Leave some blank space – Moments of silence on a track can be impactful
- Take time perfecting – No rush, this is a lasting family treasure
- Make it a collaborative effort – Invite others to contribute music or recordings
- Customize – Add creative label art, colored vinyl, etc.
- Order extra copies – Allow more people to own this memorial treasure
Conclusion
Having ashes transformed into a playable vinyl record offers a uniquely touching way to memorialize a loved one. The ability to physically hold them in record form and hear their voice provides an intimate, emotional experience. Though costs are higher for this specialized service, the personalized nature and sheer meaningfulness make it a priceless heirloom. With some thoughtful effort selecting meaningful audio content and creative customization, families can craft a one-of-a-kind tribute to cherish always.