Altars and Other Essentials
An altar (see this page) is an essential piece of
equipment for candle rituals. Although you can use any
table or available flat surface, it is very inconvenient to
have to clear away all ritual candles and tools each time
you need to go about your everyday affairs. This moving
of candles will also interrupt the magickal energy flow.
For this reason, you need to have a separate small area
on which to burn your ritual candles and where you can
meditate upon the purpose of your spellwork. This can
be a shelf attached to the wall or a small table that will
fit into one corner of a room. If possible, it is best to
have this shelf or table in a room that is not readily
available to visitors or anyone who might question what
you are doing or who might feel free to touch or
rearrange your project.
If you use a shelf, be certain that it is not under any
other object, such as another shelf. The heat from the
candles can scorch wood or start a fire by igniting
nearby papers or books. If you use a table, position it
away from draperies and other flammable materials. It is
best not to have any cloths or scarves on the shelf or
table. If a candle falls over, it could ignite such
combustible material. Candle wax is also very difficult to
get out of cloth or carpet. If you want to protect the
altar top, cover it with a marble board, a metal sheet, or
a thick piece of tempered glass. This protective covering
also makes it easier to clean up drips of candle wax.
Eventually, you will want a few more essential items
for candle-burning magick: an assortment of colors and
types of candles, a number of metal holders, a candle
snuffer, and perhaps a statue or two representing the
deities of your spiritual path. If you use incense, you will
need a holder for the sticks and cones. In a pinch, a can