Our Process — Ash & Earth Memorial Panels

Step by Step

From Commission to Completion

Each Ash & Earth memorial panel is created through a careful, intentional process — one that honors both your loved one and your trust.

Submit Your Commission Request

Begin by filling out our commission form. You'll share details about your pet or loved one, provide your favorite photo, and choose your panel preferences. This gives Matt everything he needs to begin planning your piece.

We'll confirm your order via email and provide full ash submission instructions.

Begin Your Commission →

Complete Payment

Payment of $650 (for a 24×18” panel) is collected in full at the time of commission. This secures your spot in the queue and allows Matt to source materials specific to your piece.

We accept payment via Stripe, PayPal, and other methods — details will be included in your confirmation email.

Send Your Loved One's Ashes

Once payment is confirmed, you'll mail approximately two tablespoons of ashes to our studio in Phoenix, AZ. We understand this step may feel significant — please take your time, and know that every package is received with complete reverence.

Ash Submission Instructions

Place ashes in a sealed ziplock bag (double-bag is encouraged)
Place the sealed bag inside a small, sturdy box with padding
Ship via USPS, UPS, or FedEx — no special permits required for cremated remains shipped domestically
International shipments are welcome — please use the appropriate customs declaration for cremated remains
Include your name and order confirmation number inside the box
Ship to: Matt DeBenedetto · 10049 N. 25th St., Phoenix, AZ 85028

Matt Crafts Your Panel

Once your ashes arrive, Matt begins. He hand-applies natural lime plaster to the board, carefully folds in your loved one's ashes, adds any botanicals or embellishments, and allows the panel to cure fully before mounting the raised photo.

Each layer is applied slowly and intentionally — a process refined over 35 years of plastering craft.

Turnaround: 2–3 weeks from receipt of ashes.

Your Panel Ships to You

Your completed memorial panel is carefully wrapped in bubble wrap and packed in a protective box before being shipped nationwide. You'll receive a tracking number once your package is on its way.

When it arrives, all that's left is to find the right place on your wall where the light touches it just right.

Packaging & Care

Panels are bubble-wrapped and double-boxed for maximum protection
Hang in any indoor space — panels are not weather-rated for outdoor use
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which may fade the photo over time
Wipe gently with a dry cloth — do not use cleaning solutions on the plaster surface

Policies

Clear & Transparent

We believe in being upfront about every aspect of the commission process.

Payment

100% of the panel price is due at time of order. Payment secures your place in the commission queue.

Turnaround Time

Your panel will be completed within 2–3 weeks of receiving your ashes. The clock starts when the ashes arrive, not when you order.

Ash Quantity

Approximately two tablespoons (2 Tbsp) of cremated remains are needed. Unused ashes can be returned upon request — please note this at the time of order.

Revisions & Approvals

Because each panel is handcrafted and cured in stages, we are unable to offer photo proofs before completion. Matt works from your photo and commission notes to create a faithful tribute.

Returns & Refunds

Due to the nature of custom memorial art, all sales are final. If your panel is damaged in shipping, please contact us immediately with photos and we will make it right.

Lifetime Artist Guarantee

Matt stands behind every piece he creates. If you have a concern about craftsmanship, reach out directly and we will address it personally.

A Note from Matt

Your Trust Means Everything

I know what it takes to open an urn and scoop out a small portion of your companion's ashes and trust a stranger with them. That's not lost on me.

Every package I receive is handled with the same care I'd want for someone I love. I work slowly. I work alone. And I put a piece of intention into every layer of every panel.

Your pet had a character — a personality — that deserves to be celebrated, not tucked away. That's why I started Ash & Earth. That's why this work matters to me.

"For Matt, this work is not simply construction. It is a quiet collaboration between earth, memory, and craftsmanship — creating a place where love can remain present long after goodbye."

Meet Matt

Matt DeBenedetto, Ash & Earth artisan, carefully hand-applying plaster to a memorial panel board

Simple, Transparent,and Handled with Care