Cairn Ceramics

Cairn Ceramics began when a close friend asked that her own remains be incorporated into a tsatsa—a small Tibetan votive sculpture, made by hand and meant to last. Creating those first pieces for her friends and family revealed how art can hold memory in a profoundly personal way. From that experience came the idea for a memorial that could also be part of daily life—a piece that both responds to its surroundings, while also bringing a sense of peace and presence. The wind chime grew from that idea, joining form and sound in a way that allows remembrance to be felt, not just seen.

We hope each memorial chime offers a quiet sense of presence within your home or garden—a graceful form infused with the ashes of your loved one. Even in stillness, it can serve as a gentle reminder of closeness and continuity. When stirred by the wind, its soft tone may bring a moment of recognition or comfort. In this way, each piece is meant to keep memory near—subtle, tangible, and part of the rhythm of daily life.

Cairn wind chimes are individually handcrafted in porcelain, offered in a broad palette of colors and forms. In the casting process, a small portion of cremated remains is gently infused into the clay, creating a memorial that is both beautiful and deeply personal.

Yes, the remains are visible on the interior of the forms. We blend a small portion of the remains into liquid porcelain, applying it to the interior of the form during casting. During firing, the remains become visible on the interior of the finished piece — a subtle and visible presence within.

Yes. Our chimes can be enjoyed indoors or in a sheltered outdoor space. While the porcelain and bronze are durable, they will last longest when protected from harsh weather.

Porcelain is highly durable and can last for many years. To preserve its finish and tone, we recommend placing your chime in a covered porch, garden alcove, or other protected area.

Simply place your order through our website. Once received, we’ll send you a complimentary collection kit with everything needed to safely return the cremated remains.

You’ll receive your collection kit within about a week. After you return it to us, we begin the careful process of creating your memorial and keep you informed along the way.

We require only a small amount—about 2 teaspoons for a single chime or 4 teaspoons for a double. Any unused ashes are respectfully returned with your finished piece.

Yes. A small portion of ashes is all that’s needed, so multiple chimes can be created for different family members or locations.

Yes. Cairn Ceramics creates memorials for people, and our companion brand, Kindred Spirits, offers the same care for beloved pets.

Yes. You’ll choose from our available color palette and forms during ordering. Each piece is individually made, ensuring every chime is unique.

The kit includes everything you need: a container for ashes, protective packaging, detailed instructions, and a prepaid USPS Priority Mail Express label to return it safely.

Yes. The U.S. Postal Service authorizes the mailing of cremated remains using Priority Mail Express. Our kit is designed to meet all USPS requirements for safety and compliance.

No. You may take the time you need. When you’re ready, simply seal the box and drop it off at the post office using the included label.

You’ll cover only the cost of shipping the ashes back to us using USPS Priority Mail Express. The collection kit and the final memorial shipment are fully covered by us.

Yes, by appointment. Local families in the Portland area are welcome to arrange a personal drop-off at our studio.

Once we receive your collection kit, your memorial is typically completed and shipped within six weeks.

Yes. We send updates at key steps and are happy to provide additional information upon request.

Yes. We understand how meaningful this process is and can share photos of your piece in progress if you wish.

Porcelain and bronze are durable materials, but they last longest in a sheltered location. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed for cleaning.

If your memorial arrives damaged, please contact us right away and we’ll make arrangements for a replacement. For accidental damage later on, we can often assist with repairs.

Yes. We offer repair services when possible and can recreate a piece if damage is beyond repair.

Because each piece is custom made and includes cremated remains, we’re unable to offer returns or exchanges. If an issue arises, we’ll do everything possible to make it right.

If your memorial is damaged in transit, please let us know immediately with photos, and we’ll arrange a replacement at no cost to you.

Yes. We offer discounts for multiple memorials made from the same set of ashes—please contact us before ordering for details.

We currently offer Shop Pay Installments at checkout, allowing you to spread payments over time.

Cairn Ceramics began from a wish to honor loved ones through beauty and craft. Each chime carries both memory and artistry—a way to hold connection through sound and form.

Yes. We partner with select funeral homes and pet aftercare providers who share our values of integrity and compassion.

You’re welcome to include a personal note or brief dedication for our records. While we don’t add inscriptions directly to the chime itself, we keep each message with care as part of your order documentation.

Sound has a way of grounding us in memory. Our chimes are made to invite calm reflection—a quiet reminder that love continues, even as it changes form.