The Ultimate Vampire Resource and Directory

your intentions. this is the most important part. think long and hard about what you want. think it out in detail; imagine exactly what you want to happen.

location. where will you be performing this spell? if you don’t have a regular altar or ritual space, designate a space and purify it in the way you please, if you’d like (i.e. charged or ‘holy’ water, salt, or incense smoke). don’t use the space for anything else until you’ve finished the spell.

time. the phase of the moon is very important to most spellworkers and is said to greatly enhance spells. see moon magick for more information to decide what moon phase is best for your spell. also, decide whether to do your spell under sunlight or moonlight. set a specific time and date whenever possible and stick to it.

beginning. how will you begin your ritual? a few deep breaths and a moment to focus is a necessity; some witches meditate prior to spellwork. you might want to cast a magic circle around your location. summon your own energy and the energy of the location and focus it onto your intention.

ingredients. what colors/smells/tastes/feelings/symbols are related to your intention or goal? for correspondences, see our reference section for correspondences and ingredient ideas.

— candles should be your #1 ingredient. white candles are usually lit to initiate a spell; other colored candles should be incorporated as appropriate. words or images can be carved into the candle. see candle magick

— symbols are integral as well. words are symbols. drawings, objects, and effigies can also be used, even if just as a visual reminder to focus on. writing out a spell solidifies it instantly.

closure. how are you going to end your spell? sometimes a ‘thank you’ to your chosen deity, spirit or ancestor will suffice. clean up your space and put away what is left in a safe place after the ritual is done.

proof. i like to keep a proof or reminder of my spell. some prefer to simply write their spell down in their grimoire; personally, i will keep something like a candle stub wrapped in ribbon and store it in a special place. you might want to bury your proof,