October 3rd, 2011

Today, I've been purely in the mood for creativity, and fall is a time of year when crafts and decorating ideas run rampant. Here are a few little projects to do with the family or friends, either to decorate one's altar, or just the house at large.

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Samhain is a lovely time of year, and, in my opinion, is one of the most fun Sabbats to decorate for. In the picture at the left, you can see a lovely idea from About.com, showing how to make a Day of the Dead-inspired garland for around the house, or the altar. Now, the person here sewed colored felt in the shape of skulls together on a piece of ribbon, but you could just as easily glue construction paper shapes to the ribbon. And there's no reason to limit yourself to skulls, or use them even if they aren't your thing. Other seasonal symbols like bats and pumpkins are just as appropriate. Another fun craft is to make pumpkin candles. One could use any size pumpkin, but I recommend the mini pumpkins, as they're smaller and easier to work with. However, larger candles could be made with baking pumpkins, or even acorn squash. Simply cut out the top and scoop the insides out, just like one would for carving. Then, melt paraffin wax or wax chips (the chips tend to burn cleaner). Place a wick in the bottom of the pumpkin/squash, and carefully pour the wax around it. Once the wax has set, there may be an indentation around the wick. Simply fill this with leftover wax, and the candle can be placed on the altar, the doorstep, or the center of the dining table. A final idea popular this time of year is making a Witch's Bottle. It is an easy-to-make protective device, and uses only items already likely common around the house. Fill a jar about half full of pointy objects: pins, old razors, nails, keys without a use, etc., and then completely cover with salt. A "personal marker" is then used to top off the salt. Traditionally, this was urine, but for safety and hygienic purposes, I recommend using a bit of hair, nail clippings, or spit in its place. It'll smell quite a bit better, too. The jar needs to be then hidden away in a place it will not be disturbed. There are, however, two opposing theories on how this should be done. Some say the bottle should remain on the property to draw protection. Others say it should be placed as far from the house as feasible, to draw negativity away from the residence. Choose whichever method makes the most sense to you. Hopefully, these few ideas are getting you in the mood for fall, I know I sure am!