How to Make a Wooden Wand for Witchcraft
Wands play an important role in the ceremonial practices of many pagan traditions. Many different types of wands are available from specialist retailers, but if you want a wand that is uniquely yours, the best way is to make your own. Making a wand is a simple basic process, but you can add as much detail and complexity to it as you want to. All you need are a few simple tools to create a one-of-a-kind wand.
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Things You'll Need
- Craft knife or saw
- Sandpaper
- Wire, cord or ribbon
- Cyanoacrylate glue
- Paint and paintbrushes
- Varnish
- Oil
- Crystal or other stone
Instructions
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Decide on the type of wood you want to use for your wand. Different types of wood have different properties in various religious or folkloric traditions. For instance, some traditions consider apple wood particularly useful for love magic. Choose a type of wood that is significant to you.
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Visit an area of woodland where the type of tree you have chosen grows. Walk around, looking at fallen branches. When you come across one which inspires you, pick it up. Some traditions encourage their members to leave a small offering in gratitude once they have taken a branch.
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Trim the branch to the correct size if necessary using a craft knife or saw. Some traditions call for wands of a specific length, while others have no rules on the matter. You should find the length that feels comfortable to you.
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Remove the bark carefully from your branch. Check to see if the wood is dry underneath the bark; if not, place it in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few days to dry out.
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Shape your wand. You may wish to carve it using a craft knife, either to emphasize existing features or to add new designs. If you want a smooth appearance, sand the wand lightly with fine sandpaper. Wrapping the end you intend to hold with wire, cord or ribbon can create a more comfortable grip. Secure the wrapping in place with cyanoacrylate glue.
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Decorate your wand. This is an opportunity to personalize your wand. Possibilities include painting designs on the wand. If you do this, be sure to add a layer of matte varnish to protect the paint. Other wand makers simply oil the wand to bring out the natural color of the wood. Adding crystals to the tip of the wand is a common practice. Carve a niche for the crystal, glue it in place with cyanoacrylate glue, and secure it by wrapping it with wire or cord.
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Tips & Warnings
Always be careful when using a craft knife. Cut on a safe surface and make all cuts away from your body.
If you varnish your wand, do so outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
