Welcome to a new installment of the Tool Series. Today, I want to talk about color.
For as far back as I can remember, I've been in love with color - all colors of the spectrum. I didn't understand the passion until I realized I was a witch. As I began my study of the craft, color melted into every aspect of the practice.
My favorite way to spend a Saturday was to wander the isles of JoAnns Fabrics looking at all the colors of fabric, yarns, ribbon, papers, inks, and threads. The colors drew me in. I have a warehouse of fabrics and a studio full of yarns, ribbon, and fibers to attest to my addiction.
When I learned that those colors had correspondences to magic and the things I could create, I was enamored with the concept that color and energy created a strength, a binding, for my spell work.
If you're new to the craft, colors have different meanings and correlate with whatever intention you want to impart into a spell or candle magic. I purchased THIS digital from Etsy to include in my Book of Shadows as a quick reference guide. The cool thing with purchasing digitals, is I can print this as an entire sheet to put in the BOS, and I can also print a copy to punch out each color individually for single pages.
Here is a great article from Witch and Wand on different ways to use color magic.
To incorporate colors into your magic, you can use ribbon, yarn or thread into a binding spell, decorate a besom handle, braid a bracelet (remember those friendship braids?), or bind a smudge bundle. You can use specific colors of candles for whatever your intention is for a spell.
Another great thing about working with fibers and ribbons is if you are not yet out of the broom closet, you can incorporate intentions to anything without anyone around you being the wiser! Who knew something as simple as color could pack such a punch?
I hope you're finding this series helpful and if you have thoughts to add, please leave them in the comments.
Thank you for your patience last week. My husband and I celebrated our forty-first anniversary yesterday. Since I was setting up posts for the week on Sunday, I wasn't sure this post was going to happen on time. I have an amazing husband. He is cleaning up the kitchen so I can be here for you.
Growing up, I knew I was a witch but I didn't know anything about tools. A broom was something I used on Saturday mornings during my housekeeping duties.
Unlike what television and movies show us, unless you can levitate you are not going to be riding a broom any time soon. But it would be cool, yes?
Spiritual besoms are used for sweeping. Not for everyday use but as a spiritual tool for ridding a space of negativity. They don't need to be a full-sized 'house' broom. While I do have a favorite broom I purchased once for a gathering, you can use any size or style. I also have a small broom from a child's housekeeping set.
Another great option, with other properties, is the cinnamon broom. This particular style is easy to find around the fall months. While I've always purchased a couple for their scent, and have a couple of old ones that have lost their cent to create smaller brooms, I just learned there's more to this broom than meets the eye.
According to Art of the RootLINKthe cinnamon has protective energy (which I knew but never thought of in this particular case). Aside from cleansing a space, you can also BRING IN positive energy to a space.
While I'm not a fan of AI information, I do believe the following is an accurate description. The handle up/ handle down reminds me of the meanings behind horseshoes. Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.
How to hang a broom:
Handle Up invites in positive energy and a symbol of welcome
Handle Down wards off negativity
You can also place a small broom on your altar, decorate them with charms, crystals, colorful ribbons, or twine.
Some sources for you:
Everyday Witch A to Z by Deborah Blake
Page 14
You'll find information and instructions for making your own Besom
Kitchen Witch's Guide to Magickal Tools by Patricia Telesco
Pages 89-94
She talks about the history as well as construction and a lengthy list of spells using the besom
Witchcraft on a Shoestring by Deborah Blake
There are two sections - Pages 19-20, 104-106 as well as Witch's Herbal besom - Page 104
If you're really feeling crafty, check out the youtube video below.
Remember, any tool you make is influenced with your energy and energy.
Another essential tool in any witch's cabinet are the herbs. Plants on a window sill or an entire garden, Their medicinal properties as well as their connection to the elements are important in our practice.
I want a real witch's garden at some point. I intend to make it happen next spring after I revamp the garden this fall. I have three books on my shelf that have been there for years. Two of my favorites are by Kate West. The Real Witches' Garden and The Real Witches' Kitchen. I'll link everything down below with both Llwellyn and Amazon links where available. The other is Garden Witchery by Ellen Dugan (Book 1 in a series).That one also includes a gardening journal. I'd probably photocopy those and put in my garden planner. I'm not a fan of writing in the actual books. I think it would have been nice if she'd printed a gardening journal companion. I did notice she has an entire series dedicated to Garden Witchery so be sure to check out her page on Amazon.
One of the best things, for me, is the patience required to nurture plants and put my own energy into the plants. Whether I intend them for spells or for cooking, I like knowing where the plant came from and that the energy I've infused into its growth will further empower the use.
You'll often find fresh herb plants at a local farmer's market or even in a big box store. For dried herbs, there are several options both in the big box store, natural food stores and on-line. When shopping on-line, please pay attention to any reviews. Sometimes, at the very bottom of the website home page, you can see how long they've been in business. Also try Etsy or Ebay and look at the reviews. Just type 'dried herbs' in the search bar of any of those last two for a plethora of options. My only concern with purchased dried as opposed to growing my own I'm not always sure how 'fresh' the ingredients are. That said, I do understand that we may not always have the ability to grow our own.
Keep in mind... your herb garden can be as small as a few pots on your window sill, pots on the deck, or table in front of a sunny window. You don't need a large plot of ground to have an herb garden.
I plan to do an entire series on the individual herbs so stay tuned. I just wanted to get you thinking. If you have herbs you keep on hand, please leave them in the comments below and I'll be sure to include them in the Gardening series this fall.
Here are those promised links:
Ellen Dugan Amazon Page - LINK (Note: she also writes witchy fiction!)
I've kept journals in some form since I was young. I think I got my first lock & key diary about the age of ten. I still have that journal. I also have journals that I have made and written in off and on over the years. Journals are an important way to track the changes in our lives but also for keeping notes about spell work. What the conditions were during the spell work, tools used, notes of what did (or did not) work, and thoughts on the over-all process. These journals are not your book of shadows, though you could keep some of the same information in them. They are more for education, and even sometimes, venting. Places to let out your thoughts no one else needs to know.
You can use anything for your journals. They can be notebook paper in a binder, a composition notebook, a plain journal from the store or one you've made. They can be permanently bound or put together like a traveler's notebook where you have one cover but can add in new pages as you fill them up.
While you can do the same for a Book of Shadows (BOS for short), or Grimoire, when I think of a BOS as more of a recipe book. I have a couple of videos to share from witches I follow on YouTube. They both have great videos on starting a Book of Shadows.
For the longest time I didn't think I could make beautifully artistic pages then I saw a video where a witch uses one of those tracer projectors and blends different images into a cohesive page design. That may be in the second link. I've not watched them in awhile.
I've not watched all of this video but looks interesting. We can discover this one together.
That should keep you busy. In the mean time, please let me know in the comments if you have a Book of Shadows, a Grimoire, or have you held off starting one for some reason. Let's inspire and encourage one another.
Aside from ourself, I think one of the best tools a witch can have in his/ her arsenal is a great reference library. Whether you build hard copies on your book shelf or internet sights you trust, Having a place to look something up that is unfamiliar to you is a must.
Face it, my witchy friends... we don't know everything. I know, surprised, right?
I have a vast collection of books that I value. However, I do not count on just one to give me the information I'm searching for. I will go through several, searching for consistencies in what I want to know. If I come across a piece in one book that doesn't jive with at least two others, than I discount the information and move on. You will find inconsistencies. That's okay. Part of the information is gleaned from other sources to write one book, while others will impart their own 'wisdom' into the topic.
I have sources I trust. Here is a short list (in no particular order) and Amazon links when I could find them:
Another month comes to a close. We can still look forward to hot weather here in the Northern Hemisphere but we are so close to another turn of the Wheel.
The tarot is an ancient art of laying out and interpreting illustrated cards to gain insight into your past, present, and future. (Mind, Body, Spirit)
According to the dictionary -
playing cards, traditionally a pack of 78 with five suits, used for fortune-telling and (especially in Europe) in certain games. The suits are typically swords, cups, coins (or pentacles), batons (or wands), and a permanent suit of trump.
"tarot is a powerful way of revealing the truth about your life"
There are many different tarot deck designs. Browse the shop on Llewellyn.com and you'll be scrolling for some time, so pour yourself a drink and enjoy the view.
When I was about twelve, my (step) mom gave me an interesting little pocket book by Dell Purse Books called Your Destiny in 36 cards. (published in 1969) You'll find a copy at Abe Books . This book uses a standard deck of cards. I haven't used this in many years but I did dig it off my cluttered bookshelf this morning to share with you.
I have two decks that I really love working with. One is the Everyday Witch Tarot by Deborah Blake with beautiful artistry by Elisabeth Alba. There is a standard size deck (complete with guide book) as well as a mini set I have my eye on.
I also have a Color Your Own Tarot Deck I picked up several years ago at Barnes & Noble. I love this set because when I draw a card, I can use colored pencils to color in the image as I focus on the message the card wants me to receive while infusing my energy into the card - making it my own.
There are many ways to read Tarot. You could choose to pull just one card every day. I like to keep a journal of my cards. For this I use the journal pages from MyLifeMyPlans on Etsy. With this digital, I was able to print the pages out in any size. I chose a personal planner size. Keeping a journal of your readings allows you to look back and see if there've been any changes in your tarot practice.
Don't think you can read Tarot or interpret the cards? No problem. A lot of decks come with guide books or there is a wide variety of books available. One of my favorites is Illustrated Tarot Spreads.Also, as I was collecting links I found this one on Amazon. The price $11.11 - you know the numbers had my attention! The book is called Tarot Spreads Workbook.
As I began researching for this post, I realized that while CRYSTALS are an important tool in our practice, like their facets, their are many different aspects to each one. So, I'm going to introduce CRYSTALS in this post and give you some book titles you might want to explore. I'll turn Crystals into their own series in the future.
I want to start with the Kitchen Witch's Guide to Magickal tools by Patricia Telesco.
In the opening of Chapter 14 on Crystals, Patricia gives this background:
"In looking at our community, there's no doubt tat we love our pretty, shiny things not only in jewelry but as implements of the altar, components to spellcraft..... Humankind has always been drawn to stones and utilized them in a wide variety of ways."
She goes on to showcase a small selection of crystals and their meanings.
YA Fantasy author, Sarra Cannon always has a variety of crystals both on her desk at home as well as set up in her work area when she goes out to a coffee shop to write or retreat stay.
Melanie Marquis reminds us that crystals are a natural substance and that they, as well as other rocks have intrinsic magickal powers. They are an energy source. If you've ever walked into a rock & gem store or a New Age shop without cloaking yourself from the energy, you may feel a bit off-kilter (putting things mildly) Some people react differently to the various stones and at varying levels.
While on my recent trip to Central Illinois, I felt off-balance while walking through the mall. Now, keep in mind this was before I found an amazing shop. I've seen shops like this in stand-alone brick n mortar but never in a mall. I was in love the moment I stepped into their doors. Follow the link above and check out their website. Anyway, after taking a moment to cloak I wandered the store until I came across the Amethyst stones. Mind you, I didn't take any crystals with me. I only wore my protection amulet give to me by a friend but the amulet wasn't doing what I needed. I needed the 'balance' of the amethyst. I found a CHARMED Amethyst bracelet with a Triquetra charm. I don't know if it was the other stones in the shop or putting that particular stone close to my skin that did the trick. I felt much better.
If jewelry is your thing, check out Ms. Deborah Blake's book above. Beginning on page 32, you'll find instructions for a gemstone necklace. We'll explore more of each of the books mentioned during the Crystal Series.
In the mean time, I hope you'll add these books to your craft library (if you haven't already) and I'll see next week.
The Buck Moon peaks tonight. I'm ready to recharge my soulful batteries and continue with pitching more from my studio. A good cleansing is needed.
We still have heat here in southern Missouri.
If you've not prepared for tonight, here are a few things to keep in mind:
*A Full Moon is great for charging crystals, charging boards (a board used to absorb energy outside so you can charge items inside the home if needed)
* Start a gratitude journal. Sometimes we get so busy focusing on all the garbage in our live, we forget all the good things we can be thankful for.
* Cleanse your space (and your personal entity) with sage.
* Have something you on your mind you need to extinguish? Write the thought on a piece of paper and burn in your cauldron, adding a little incantation to send the problem on it's way.
* Dance in the moonlight, freeing yourself of all the things that are weighing you down. (skyclad is an option) This will help ground you to the earth.
* Light a candle. Thank the Earth Moon for providing you with the cleansing energy, allowing you to move forward.
* Fill a bottle with spring water (preferably) and place in the moonlight for future ritual purposes.
* Meditate. I love to light a candle and meditate with the flame.
I do apologize for coming in late today. I just could not stay awake this morning so I went back to bed. Then I awoke to rolling thunder and pounding rain, so no internet. I guess that means, I'm right on time.
AI generated from Pixabay
Candles have so many purposes in our magic tool box.
Let's start with the colors. I LOVE colors. Like stones or the clothes we wear, each color has its own vibe and correspondence. If you want to attract money, use a green candle. Love, red or pink are the colors to use, black for shielding or warding of negativity, and so on. White, a non-color can be used for anything. Just visualize the color and the intent and you're good to go.
If you've made a wish and blown out a birthday candle, you've been practicing magic. Though, we now know, you should never blow out a candle. Either snuff the candle or let the flame burn down, depending on the spell.
Candles are great for those still practicing in secret, or 'in the broom closet'. If someone askes, just tell them you felt like using a purple candle today or a specific scented candle. No one will be the wiser. Remember, the intent comes from within.
I'm in the process of revamping my magic area. Such a jumble of things, including a tub full or books I need to find shelf space for and a vintage wardrobe from the 1800's that serves as my altar - or should be. I'll get there.
One of the books I love on candle magic is Magical Candle Crafting by Ember Grant. This is a great resource for creating your own candles for spells & rituals.
I love the 'chime' candles for spells. They're only about 4" tall and the size of your pointer finger. If you don't have some place local for chime candles or their small ceramic holders, do a search on Etsy for chime candles and holders. You'll be shopping for awhile. I especially like this Selenite holder. Adds a little something extra to your intention.
You can also search for Candle Magic Guides if you'd like pintables for your BOS.
If you like things a bit more visual, there are several on YouTube. This one by Ethony has great basic information. Even if you've been doing candle magic for awhile, sometimes going back to basics sparks something you'd not thought of or forgotten. I will say, she's a bit 'entertaining' but the information is there.
When talking about intentions, colors are not the only thing to keep in mind. You can enhance the intention by carving sigels, rune signs or other images such as hearts or dollar signs into the candle for added umph.
However you work with candles, always keep safety in mind. Your candle should be placed in a sturdy base, small cauldron, terra cotta dish or similar item. Adding a base of sand is also a good idea. Never leave a candle unattended. If you're doing candle magic that requires you to burn from one marking to another over a period of five days, for instance, always make sure you have the time to be vigilant with the candle the entire time it needs to burn. Always extinguish with a candle snuffer. I've picked mine up at Dollar Tree.
Here are a few links to magical candle supply shops on line. NOTE: I've not shopped from any of them, so please do your homework - and shop local when you can.
The hour is early for me but I wanted to get this post written while Bob sleeps in. He hasn't done much of that since his retirement. While I love my coffee time with Bob, I've also missed my morning work hours.
I got home late yesterday afternoon from my trip to IL. I know were spending time today so diving in.
AI generated from Pixabay
This basic vessel is so much more than it's simplistic design leads you to believe.
For centuries, the cauldron has served as the heart of the home. Made in various sizes, the vessel could be used for boiling water or making a hearty stew. They were also used to create concoctions for various ailments.
Shakespeare's quote often comes to mind when people think of the cauldron. The imagery in a few words is in itself, magical.
A large, round, usually metal container for cooking in, usually supported over a fire whose contents can be set on fire as part of a ceremony or to start a sports event.
You'll often see cauldrons at RenFair's and medieval fetivals. Sometimes, even at Rendezvous Re-enactment encampments.
When it comes to magical practice, cauldrons come in all sizes from about 2.75" x 3" as seen on the WitchesSage website to vintage pots that will hold multiple-gallons.
Small to medium-sized ones are perfect for burning incense as well as moon festivals to burn pieces of paper with statements of things we want to let go. There is definitely magic in placing intentions into the cauldron, setting the piece on fire and watching the negativity go up in smoke!
You can also use them for water scrying or vision quests by filling them with water. (I prefer using my moon water for this or that little extra something)
Properly treated ones such as those from Lodge Cast Iron or Lehman's (they offer an 8 oz. size) are great for cooking or serving celebratory foods. Keep shipping in mind when ordering on-line. They are heavy in any size. I purchased the small one for my altar at a local Bass Pro shop, so search places that offer camping cooking equipment.
Keep in mind that, like the finger 'wand', any vessel will serve your purpose with the right intention but who doesn't love the expanded belly of a true cauldron?
For more detailed information, please check out the following sites:
Wow.. another month in the books for 2025. Did you accomplish all you'd hoped? If not, we're on the cusp of a new quarter and new beginnings. You Got This!
The ribs are on the mend. I still can't bend over without feeling them wanting to overlap one another (think crossing your fingers where each of the two fingers represent a rib bone)
But I am back to work so let's get started on this series!
Each tool in your bag of tricks serves a specific purpose. One of my favorite tools is the WAND.
Wands are an extension of the power within. When directed appropriately, they can open or close doors to other worlds and offer protection. According to McFie's Wizard Shop, the wand is nothing more than a hand-held stick made of either metal, wood, or stone. One thing the blogger does not mention is the finger. I'll talk more about that in a minute.
Orangerium sums the point up nicely that the wand is 'a symbol of mystical power, transformation and enchantment'.
The tool dates back to early biblical times where they were nothing more than a STAFF for shepherds protecting their flock, or creating change. (Exodus 7:10-12) We've always thought of that simple stick as a walking stick for the shepherd, not necessarily as a weapon. A good shepherd knew the power he could wield in that simple, often times carved, piece of wood.
AI Generated from Pixabay
Over time, we've seen wands change from those basic sticks into beautiful pieces of art. The fact remains that these are are visual tools. Wands come in various forms as McFie's mentioned but they left out one. If you don't want to share your practice with others, the most basic wand you have is your finger. Yes, your FINGER! The intention directed through any wand comes from the power within you. Remember being told as a child "it isn't nice to point"? Well, there was a lot of truth to that statement.. If you were pointing at something, or someone, I hope it was with good intention. Think ET phoning home, where he points his alien finger and the tip glows with power. You have that same power within you, no special tools required!
Several years ago I purchased an entire collection of Mind Body Spirit pages as part of their binder series. Under SPELLS & MAGIC - Casting Spells, there is one on Using Magic Wands. Here are some of the uses they suggest:
* Sleeping with a willow wand is said to make your dreams more vivid and meaningful.
* Rowan wands can help to enhance clairvoyant abilities
* Cast circles - opening and closing metaphysical doors
* Place a wand on an altar at a gathering as an offering to the ritual
* Enhance the power of your spells to focus energy
* Use a wand made from specific wood that fits the intention, such as a seasonal festival
Deborah Blake talks about various tools in her Witchcraft on a Shoestring book. She also gives instructions for making a basic wand.
For more of a visual, there are several tutorials on YouTube. Rebekka from The Witch's Cookery is one of my favorite channels. Here's her wand video from four years ago:
I have to apologize for the delay. I had things laid out to post then cracked a couple of ribs. I'm better today but still have a couple of weeks to go before I can sit upright for very long. Lots o reclining or laying down for the time being.