Tools of the Trade

NOTE: This entry is intended for those who have advanced in their studies to the point where they are ready for practice. If you have not advanced yet, disregard this post until you have.

People seem to be overly focused on the "need" for tools when it comes to practicing Witchcraft. Many people I encounter say they can't practice because they don't have the right "tools" to practice, or don't have any herbs or materials. I say they're just making up excuses. In your studies you should have learned that the tools are merely focus aids. They are NOT necessities.
Candles help one to get into the right frame of mind for practice, and to help provide illumination to the area (Candles are very inexpensive, and if one cannot use real candles, the battery operated LED candles are fine)

The athame is used to direct energy (one can use their finger for this)
The chalice is to hold water (any container will do, everyone has cups and glasses or even tupprware)

The wand, like the athame, is used to direct energy (you can find a stick on the ground you can use, if not (again) your finger)


A pentacle is used to represent earth (you can simply draw a pentacle on a piece of cardboard, a piece of paper, or on the ground)
Herbs are used in a variety of ways: in pouches for dream pillows or to ward off sickness, on candles to give your spell that extra "poof" of energies, in teas to aid healing, sleep, protection, etc. (herbs can be found in your very own back yard. ***WARNING!!!*** Please, do not ingest herbs found in one's yard if pesticides have been used, or in wild areas unless you know EXACTLY what the plant is and are sure it is not poisonous. There are numerous books on the market that can help with identification of plants. One I recommend "Magic and Medicine of Plants" by Reader's Digest.)

All tools can be found just about anywhere and for FREE. So don't tell me you can't begin a certain stage of your learnings because you don't have the "tools". You don't need 'em.