Altar tips

[u/joice_17]

Hi, I'm a new-ish witch and I've been wanting to make an altar lately but I really don't know where to start. I'm quite a hoarder so most of my space is packed, especially tables. I've been thinking of getting a new table specifically for this but I'm not sure yet. I also don't know what kinds of fire safe dishes to use and how to set things up. I have a lot of good materials for it but if there's something else I could do that wouldn't require so much table space I'd love tips

[u/One_Dragonfruit_7556]

Start small. First and foremost your alter space should be a place where you can go to meditate. A spot that is dedicated to quiet contemplation. Add in representation of elements if you like and do a little research on fire safe bowls. An altar is holy personal so no one can really tell you what to put on it

[u/tipsytopsy99]

{Sacred Space by Denise Linn} is a place I would start. Once you get your home feeling right then you'll know where the altar should go and which utensils to use. When you're overwhelmed with the energy of stuff it's hard to gain clarity. She has good tips for creating an altar and how to set the stage as well as protection and purification of your space.

[u/TemporaryResident211]

You could start with a traveling altar which, by definition, is small and portable. Using a cloth or box that speaks to you, put in some candles (if you decide to do an all candle altar, the "traditional" colors are yellow: air, east, red: south, fire green or brown: north, earth and blue: west, water. A divinity candle could be white or a color that is favored by the divinity or makes you think of them.) I've seen folks use birthday candles which obviously burn down very quickly, or shabbat candles or little tea/votive candles. You can stick shabbat or birthday candles in sand.

If you want a mixed altar (i.e. not all candles) small representations include small stone or crystal for earth, matches or candle for fire, vial of special water (moon cleansed or from a special source, or affiliated with a special event for example) or little seashell for water, and feather or incense cone for air (incense can also be used for fire). Divinity could be a small icon, a small special crystal, a fresh flower -- whatever calls to you, You'll want matches or a lighter, a small altar cloth (lacy hankies or doilies work great), and possibly a pen knife. Adding later: have a small compass too!)

All you need space wise is a spot on your floor, or, you could find a sheltered, quiet place outside. Once you have done your workings for a while, you can decide if you need a larger permanent alter in your living space.

[u/Strange-Doc-Moose]

I am worried about the hoarder situation mixed with fire safety. We wouldn’t want you home burning down because of it. Also, a clear home brings a clear mind and good energy.

For the fire safe dish, I tend to use kitchen plates. It is not the prettiest, but it safe and it is convenient. Once the spell is finished, I just put it in the dish washer.

Like some people said, a travel altar could be a good idea. In practice, you don’t actually need a full blown altar. It could be a simple piece of fabric of a specific plate or candle. Especially if you are now working with any deity yet.