ok, I need some help with getting started, like what I will need(I don't have to much to spend, so just the necessary stuff I absolutely need to start, not any thing advanced yet), what to do for the first time and also just basic stuff I need to know....any help would be appreciated oh and how big does the alter, and circle have to be? I don't have a lot of room, and can it be something I just put up when I use it? BC I don't want my parents to know right away
the size of the alter doesnt matter just what you have on it, nor does the size of the circle as long as you have room to move in it your fine, there isnt a defined size just as big as you need realy. you can set up your alter when you need it then take it down when you dont, i sugest you read up on this befor you start and most of these question would be answerd
Get reading Seriously, there are so many good books and websites that can help. To be honest you probably don't need an altar, well not literally. Can just lay down an altar cloth (read big towel, sarong etc) on the floor during rituals and use that. Then pack everything away afterwards. I'm very into keeping the 'kit list' simple. So here's my stuff. My altar (just a large cardboard box) on which there is... a cloth reprsentations of the elements; just things from nature like a feather and shell(use whatever feels appropriate) A couple of candles for the Lord and Lady (tea lights, but hey fire's fire) A pentacle (just a drawing of one will do to start with) Then for rituals and such... A tumbler, to be the chalice wand, literally a stick (I use mine as an athame too) pack of incense few more tea lights Book of shadows [for the instructions] That's about all you need to start. There are so many big long lists in books but ignore them. There is really no call for swords, cauldrons, or even specific colour candles (just use white ones and imagine they're the right colour) Good luck
Oh and here's the link to a recent thread about useful websites. http://hipforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=105987 Hope all that helps
You dont acutally need anything, the candels etc are just an add to help you focus. Just come into it all with an open mind and you'll do well for yourself
'Things' are collected as you go. If you've got $$ to spend, then find a new age store and go nuts. But a lot of things you can find around your home - a table top is a temporary altar, a glass is a chalice, a kitchen knife is your athame, etc. Get free spells and rituals online instead of spending on books, etc. there is no size, just be comfortable in your space.
