The PetReb Custom Process
PetRebMany of our friends have asked the same question: How exactly is a PetReb custom urn brought to life?
Today, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a very special project—a custom memorial for Jiaozi, a beautiful Folded-Ear cat. Follow along as we walk you through our step-by-step process, allowing you to witness exactly how Jiaozi’s unique vessel took shape from start to finish.
Gathering Memories: Where the Story Begins
The first step is the most vital: receiving the "soul" of the piece from the owner. Jiaozi’s owner shared photos of his playful poses and even told us about his favorite little bell. Every photo and description felt like a whisper: "This was his life; this was his spirit; this is how he graced our home."
We meticulously document body shape, coat patterns, and those quirky habits that made him unique. To ensure a 360-degree likeness, we require:
At least 4 clear photos (Front, Back, and both Sides).
Descriptions of unique details are highly recommended.
Front and back of Jiaozi
Both side of Jiaozi
Sculptural Design: Bringing the Spirit to Life
Next, our designers translate those memories into a physical form. For Jiaozi, we focused on his round silhouette, his curious expressions, and the slight curl of his tail. The sketches are refined repeatedly, capturing a "living moment"—whether sitting, lounging, or rolling over—so that his vitality is forever etched into the clay.
Underglaze Painting: Capturing Every Strand
Once the form is set, we begin the delicate process of Underglaze Painting. Using traditional techniques, we hand-paint every hair and intricate pattern. As we layered the blacks and greys of Jiaozi's coat and his contented, squinting eyes, the sunlight hit the ceramic in our studio. In that moment, it felt as if Jiaozi was right there, curiously watching us recreate his likeness.
Glazing: A Touch of Eternal Warmth
A layer of transparent glaze is applied over the artwork. This creates a smooth, warm texture that is soft to the touch and protects the colors from ever fading. Touching the finished surface feels like a gentle stroke of fur—a tactile connection filled with warmth.
The Fire of Transformation: 72 Steps of Craftsmanship
The piece then undergoes a rigorous high-temperature firing process:
Bisque Firing (800°C): To harden the form.
Kiln Firing (1250°C): To fuse the glaze and clay into one.
Hand-Polishing: To ensure every edge is soft and comfortable to hold. Inside the kiln, the glaze begins to shimmer, sealing Jiaozi’s memory in a protective, everlasting shell.
Quality Assurance: Excellence in Every Detail
Ceramic art is unpredictable, with a success rate of 70-80%. We conduct strict quality checks at this stage. Should any imperfection occur during the firing, we will reach out to you immediately to ensure the final piece is nothing short of perfection.
Packaging: A Safe Journey Home
We treat the packing process with the same reverence as the sculpting. Every piece is nestled into custom-designed protective packaging that has passed rigorous drop tests. We know we aren't just shipping a product; we are returning a family member.
The Homecoming: An Everlasting Companionship
Finally, Jiaozi’s vessel returns to his owner. It is no longer just a container; it is a touchstone for daily life:
Daily Moments: A hand resting on the urn while working at a desk, sparking a memory of him rolling across the floor.
Birthdays: A place to set a small treat or his favorite toy, whispering "good morning" as you brush past.
Holidays: A sunlit corner where the glaze catches the light, filling the home with warm reminders of love.
The Complete PetReb Custom Journey
Process：Consultation → Design → Painting → Glazing → Firing → Quality Check → Packaging → Delivery
Each piece is one-of-a-kind. It doesn't just hold ashes; it holds the warmth of shared moments. Jiaozi’s story reminds us that a memorial isn't an ending—it’s a way for companionship to keep flowing through our everyday lives.
Ready to Create a Forever Home?
Turn your favorite memories into a tangible reality.