Planning a funeral is an emotional and delicate process, and choosing the right floral arrangements can bring comfort and beauty to a solemn occasion. However, when it comes to ordering floral sprays for a funeral, it’s important to understand the difference between casket and coffin arrangements. Many people use the terms “casket” and “coffin” interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between the two, and these differences can affect the type of floral sprays needed for the service.
In this article, we’ll explore the difference between a coffin and a casket, why it’s essential to inform your florist whether you’re ordering a casket spray or a coffin spray, and how these two types of floral arrangements differ in both design and purpose.
What Is the Difference Between a Coffin and a Casket?
While both coffins and caskets serve the same purpose—to hold the body of the deceased during a funeral or burial—there are significant differences in their design.
- Coffin Design: Coffins have a distinct, tapered shape, with a wider area at the shoulders and a narrower area at the feet. This design is more common in Europe and Australia. Coffins are constructed to follow the natural contours of the human body and typically have six sides.
- Casket Design: Caskets are rectangular in shape with four sides, providing a uniform design more common in the United States and Canada. They are generally larger and bulkier than coffins and often feature a hinged lid and luxurious interior linings, giving them a more ornate appearance.
Although both serve a similar purpose, the difference in shape and size directly affects the type of floral arrangements suitable for each.
Why It’s Important to Tell Your Funeral Florist Whether You’re Ordering a Casket Spray or Coffin Spray
When ordering flowers for a funeral, the florist needs to know whether the arrangement is for a casket or a coffin. This distinction is crucial because it directly impacts the size, shape, and overall design of the floral spray.
If the correct type is not specified, the arrangement may not fit properly. A casket spray can overwhelm the tapered shape of a coffin, while a coffin spray may look undersized on a rectangular casket, resulting in an unbalanced presentation during the service.
Here’s why this distinction matters:
- Fit and Proportion: Casket sprays are designed for wide, rectangular surfaces, while coffin sprays are longer and narrower to suit tapered shapes.
- Arrangement Style: Casket sprays tend to be symmetrical and full, often cascading over the sides. Coffin sprays are more elongated and linear, following the coffin’s contours.
- Aesthetic Balance: A properly proportioned arrangement maintains visual harmony and contributes to a respectful, peaceful service.
How Are Casket Sprays and Coffin Sprays Different?
Now that we understand the importance of clear communication with your florist, let’s explore the specific differences between casket sprays and coffin sprays.
Casket Sprays
- Size: Larger to cover a wide rectangular surface, often extending over the sides for a full, draped effect.
- Shape: Typically oval or diamond-shaped, designed to suit the uniform structure of a casket.
- Floral Composition: Often includes roses, lilies, carnations, orchids, and lush greenery such as ferns or eucalyptus for depth and texture.
- Placement: Positioned on top of the closed casket. If the casket is open, a half-casket spray may be used.
Coffin Sprays
- Size: Smaller and more restrained to suit the tapered shape of a coffin.
- Shape: Elongated and linear, following the coffin’s natural narrowing lines.
- Floral Composition: Often features long-stem flowers such as calla lilies, gladioli, and roses, with more minimalist greenery.
- Placement: Placed along the top of the coffin to emphasise its form without overwhelming it.
Choosing the Right Floral Arrangement for a Funeral
Selecting the right floral arrangement is a deeply personal decision. Whether choosing a casket spray or coffin spray, it’s important to consider the wishes of the deceased, the family, and the tone of the service.
Factors to consider include:
- Personal Preference: Flower types, colours, and styles can be tailored to reflect personality and sentiment.
- Cultural Traditions: Certain cultures have specific floral customs or symbolic colours—inform your florist if this applies.
- Budget: Casket sprays are typically larger and more costly than coffin sprays. Your florist can guide you to a suitable option.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a coffin and a casket—and the floral sprays designed for each—helps ensure a respectful and visually balanced tribute. Clearly communicating your needs to your florist allows them to create an arrangement that fits perfectly and honours your loved one beautifully.
Floral arrangements play an important role in honouring the memory of the deceased , and with the right guidance, you can choose a casket or coffin spray that brings peace, beauty, and comfort to all who attend the service.
Coffin vs. Casket Floral – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to measure the coffin myself?
No—please don’t worry about this. We simply need the name of the funeral director handling the service. We will contact them directly to confirm the exact dimensions, shape (coffin or casket), and handle material to ensure the floral tribute fits perfectly and is secured safely.
We have chosen an eco-friendly wicker or woven coffin. Can you attach flowers to these?
Yes, but they require special care. Unlike standard timber coffins, wicker or seagrass coffins have uneven surfaces and cannot be scratched or water-damaged.
- Our expertise: We use protective bases and specialised attachment methods designed for woven materials to keep flowers secure without damaging the delicate weave of the coffin.
What is a “Half-Couch” spray, and when should I order one?
A “Half-Couch” spray is designed to cover only the bottom half of the casket. This is the best choice if you are planning an open-casket viewing during the service. It creates a beautiful tribute without interfering with the open lid or obstructing the view of your loved one.
Can I place personal items (like a hat, flag, or photo) on the coffin with the flowers?
Absolutely. If you plan to do this, please let us know before we design the arrangement.
- Why? A standard spray is designed to be the centrepiece. If we know you’re adding a photo or item, we can design the spray with “negative space” or adjust the length so the flowers frame your personal items rather than covering them.
