Any tips for a newcomer?

[Darkangel]

Hello,
I'm beginning to practice Wicca. I was wondering what tools I should buy? I'm looking into buying some books. But I'm not sure what tools for rituals and things that I'm supposed to buy. I don't want to waste my money. Thank you to anyone who replies.

Love always & Blessed be,
~Darkangel

[MistOfTheSea86]

Find out about it, figure out if it is what you really want, and if it is continue. From what I have learned. An altar would be good, As would an Athame.

[Lavender]

My suggestion would be not to buy any tools yet. Check out the book forum for a listed of recomended reading. You don't have to get all the books listed but the list will give you a good starting point. Also, check out the New Pagan thread stuck at the top of this forum for more great help. As well, Myst has started a study group. You can find the threads in this forum also. Feel free to join in anywhere.

Personally, I find that the best tools are the ones you make yourself. Don't buy stuff just because a book tells you to. Take your time and look for the one that's perfect for you. Don't worry even if it takes you months or years to find just the right tool. You'll be surprised what can turn up.

[Arduinna]

I would recommend that you just spend some time reading (there is a great thread in the book forum with suggestions) and talking, and figuring out what is important to you.

The things you need for your path will come to you at the right time. At least that has been my experience.

[Phoenix]

Flea Markets, second hand stores and antique shops are a great way to find beautiful tools relatively cheap. Just remember to clense THROUGHLY, you don't want someone else's negative vibrations messing up your workings. As for books, borrow as many as you can, buy others at second hand stores.

[Myst]

I totally agree with Wildchild.

When you do feel ready for tools, making them and/or finding them at flea markets or yard sales is fun.

You could turn a letter opener into an athame, a stick into a wand, a nice wine glass into a chalice, and find a neat cauldron or stone for earth.

[Sequoia]

I personally never really set out to buy tools. . . mine kinda came to me. A piece of special feeling driftwood that makes a great wand, an antique cup that my mom's had for years, my dear dagger. . . . really, I think that when you're ready, you'll find it a lot easier to get your tools, it'll be more like they find you.

[bluebear]

I agree with Wildchild and Myst. Save your money. Everything you need to practice can be found in the kitchen of the average house. Later when you decide you want something permanent, by all means make your own. The things you make yourself have far more meaning and power than those you buy. The arts and crafts forum may have some good ideas.
Blessings
Bluebear