Ritual Tools
A witch's tools, should a witch choose to use them, can be his or her most prized posessions. Every tool and object is individual to the user and can carry great personal value. These tools are used to direct and hold energy. They are used in ritual, spells, and day-to-day workings.
You may hear some witches say you should never use something in ritual unless you have made it, or somehow altered a store-bought item. Something mass-made in a factory may not be appropriate when used for something so personal as a spell. It's really up to you, though. If you choose not to alter your tools, then we strongly suggest that you cleanse them of any negative energies they may have picked up along the way. Physical appearance isn't important to every Witch, just as long as the tool feels like your own.
Many witches are very picky about who can touch their ritual tools. We all leave behind a little bit of our energy when we touch something, and you may not want someone else's energy on your things. You may opt to leave your items out, but this can be tricky - especially if you have siblings (or any curious body) who'd like to know what this star-shaped tile is...? Your mom may come in to your room to clean up, and decide to put your offering bowls in the dishwasher. This is why most witches choose to put their ritual items away (on the highest shelf, in a box in the closet, etc.) Even if you aren't worried about others seeing your tools, it's probably still wise to keep them clear of dust, as it carries negative energies as well.
Tools do not have to be bought and can be improvised with similar effect. In one of her workings, Caylawn once used 4 bracelets of different colours to represent the four elements. If you're in a pinch, you really can incorperate anything as long as it is suitable for your working and you hold the item in reverence.
It is also worth noting that many witches enjoy the journey of crafting their own tools because the item becaomes more personal and powerful with all of the energy that the with has spent making the tool and preparing it for ritual. Many books and internet sites offer ideas for making your own ritual items. Also, tools can be aquired by many different means- they can be found, bought from any variety of places, given s a gift, or created by the witch themself. Each mean is as good as the next.
Before using tools in a spell or ritual, many witches choose to cleanse, consecrate, and empower their tools in order to prepare them.
One thing that you should also remember is that tools do not make the Witch. Your abilities and the power of your magic is not measured in how much you spend on ritual tools, or if you use any at all. The use of tools is an entirely personal preference. Your workings have the potential to be just as powerful without the use of tools. There is no definite right or wrong when it comes to deciding whether you want to use tools or not - it's completely up to you.
Buying Tools
Do not be mislead when it comes to buying ritual/craft items. Buting ritual items can be very exciting, but it also requires careful thought and deliberation. If you have ever been to one, you know how much fun it can be shopping in a metaphysical or occult store. It can also be quite overwhelming when faced with making what can turn out to be a very important decision.
Here are some tips to help you out: - Research and plan before you head out to shop. On-line shopping is great because you can compare prices and items with the click of a button. Although it can be tricky sorting out paying over the internet, it takes time in the mail, and not everyone can receive marked packages at their home. But however you plan to shop, you should make a list of things you plan to purchase and how much you are willing to spend.
- If you go into a store, you should feel comfortable there. It is bound to be filled with energies and you will feel these - they should be positive. If you are nervous or uneasy about shopping in a certain place, then maybe you shouldn't be there.
- Check out the staff. Are they curteous and friendly, Or do they sit behind the counter and glare at you? Do they offer to help you? Most shop clerks will be able to tell if you are a beginner, and since they are usually experienced, they are probably a good source of information. Do they seem too eager to sell? You should never allow yourself to be rushed into a purchase - if a clerk is trying too hard to persuade you, they may be more concerned about making a sale than how suitable the tool is for you.
- Metaphysical/Occult stores aren't the only place you can go to buy what you need - you'd be surprised what you can find if you look hard enough. D'Arcy unexpectedly found a cauldron on a trip we both made to China Town. It doesn't have to be made specifically for ritual for it to work. Don't be afraid to improvise.
- And also: if something seems to be too good to be true- it probably is! Use your knowledge and judgement!
