When I first started exploring witchcraft, I thought I needed to have every tool in the book before I could call myself a witch. The truth is, being a witch isn’t about the number of tools you own or how extravagant they are. It’s about the connection you build with what you use—whether it’s a simple candle or a cherished family heirloom.

Over time, I’ve built a collection of tools that feel meaningful to me. Each item serves a purpose, and many have a story behind how they came into my practice.

Whether you’re just starting out, or looking to deepen your craft, let me take you through the must-have tools (IMO) that every witch should at least try.

The list below contains some affiliate links. I hope you’ll take a look at some of them, and be inspired to find what resonates with your path….

1. Athame or ritual knife

The athame is a ceremonial knife used to direct energy.

For me, it represents clarity, focus, and the energy of certainty.

While it’s not a necessity for every ritual, I often use mine to symbolically cut through energetic cords or create protective boundaries.

Your athame doesn’t have to be ornate—choose something that feels powerful and purposeful to you. Here are a few beautiful ones:

• Sterling silver ceremonial athame pendant, with labradorite and moonstone (OMG this is a stunning, handmade athame pendant, perfect for subtle, yet powerful magick)

• Black obsidian athame (SUCH a striking and potent athame for protection rituals)

• Fleur de lis Medieval athame – a classic, timeless tool

 2. Chalice or cup

A chalice is a beautiful way to honour the element of water during rituals. I use mine to hold offerings like water, wine, or even herbal tea.

The chalice adds a sense of reverence to my practice and reminds me of the emotional and intuitive aspects of magic. Check these out –

• Brass triple moon etched chalice (this is petit and SO beautiful!)
• Stunning Medieval style chalice golden brass chalice
• Modern stainless steel Goddess chalice – this one looks SO good on a simple altar

3. Pentacle or pentegram

The pentacle (also known as a pentagram) is a disc inscribed with a five-pointed star, and is a grounding symbol of protection and balance.

For many, it’s the quintessential witch symbol, inscribed in candles, embroidered on wall hangings or drawn in journals. But I think it’s important to have one permanent, ceremonial pentacle.

I keep mine on my altar as a focal point for Earth energy. It helps me stay centred and connected to the physical world, even during deeply spiritual work. Here are a few I love:

• Simple wooden pentacle
• Modern black wooden pentacle is really striking, yet classic.
• Decorative pentacle tealight holder for something with real impact!
• Pentacle offering bowl a versatile and functional offering dish for your altar

4. Wand

The wand is a classic tool for directing energy during rituals or spells. Mine is simple—crafted from part of a fallen branch I found on a walk.

You can craft your own from crystals, wire and wood, or purchase one from a witchy maker who specialises in wand making, like these:

• Rainbow prism oak wand

• Intricate hand-carved wooden wand

5. Book of Shadows (also known as the grimoire)

The Book of Shadows is where witches keep spells, reflections, and lessons. It’s not about perfection – it’s about documenting your journey.

Over time, the grimoire becomes a deeply personal record of growth and discovery. Whether you use a journal, binder, or digital app, your Book of Shadows will evolve with you and become a deeply cherished ally on the path.

6. Tarot deck or oracle cards

I’ll let you into a secret: I don’t read Tarot. For me, receiving a reading from a gifted practitioner is worth SO much more to me than spending years studying. But I know many witches absolutely love using their Tarot cards regularly.

Oracle cards offer a more flexible approach (and they are my go-to) with messages that are often uplifting, metaphorical, symbolic and multilayered.  Here are a selection of my favourite decks:

• The Wild Unknown Animal Spirit Deck (go on, treat yourself this is oracle gold!)
• The Green Witch’s Oracle Deck
• The Starseed Oracle probably the global favourite!
• Mystical Shaman Oracle the illustrations are to DIE for, and this is a potent set
• The Spirit Animal Oracle
• Goddess Guidance Oracle Cards I can’t do without Goddess cards and these are divine

7. Pendulum

A pendulum is a simple but effective tool for divination and energy work. I use mine to answer yes/no questions or locate areas in need of energetic balance.

It’s a quiet reminder to trust how Spirit speaks to me through my intuition, and to listen closely to the whispers all around. Try one of these:

• Obsidian Pendulum point is an ornate and undoubtedly beautiful piece
• Aquamarine Pendulum point is just lovely
• Amethyst Pendulum with butterfly board a great set for easy divination
• A Little Bit of Pendulum a sweet little book all about pendulums

8. Runes

Runes are an ancient system of symbols used for divination and insight. I love the tactile experience of casting runes and interpreting their meanings. Creating my own set deepened my connection to them and added a personal touch to my practice.

• Unlock the Secrets of the Stone, a high-quality set with glass runes, cloth and guidebook
• Opalite engraved runes

• Runes for Beginners: A Guide to the Elder Futhark Runes is probably the best book out there on the meaning of runes

9. Scrying mirror or crystal ball

Scrying is a wonderfully dark feminine practice that allows you to access visions or messages from your intuition.

My black mirror has become a potent portal for self-reflection, guiding me to answers that aren’t always immediately obvious. It’s a tool that requires patience but rewards you with profound clarity.

If you’re looking to buy a scrying mirror, here are a few good options:

• This stunning obsidian pocket mirror is great for easy travel, and it’s beautiful too.
• A simple, minimal mirror with a stand, ideal for those who want zero decorative distractions!
• This obsidian stone ball is another beautiful scrying option

 10. Crystals

Crystals are powerful allies in magical work, and they are SO varied in their application.

My go-to crystals are citrine and sunstone for attracting positivity, and black tourmaline and smokey quartz for protection.

Each stone carries its own energy, and over time, I’ve learned to work with their unique vibrations to support my intentions.

11. Herbs and plants

Herbs are a cornerstone of most witch’s practice.

I keep a collection of dried herbs like rosemary, bay, lavender, and chamomile for spells, teas, and incense. These herb collections can grow quickly (ha, pun intended!) so it’s important to keep an inventory of what you have, and keep rotating your herbs as they won’t last forever.

Growing my own plants has added another layer of connection to their potency, and connection to place. So I’d highly recommend creating a witch’s garden for yourself.

12. Candles

Candles are one of the simplest and most versatile tools. I use different colours to align with specific intentions—green for prosperity, white for protection, and red for passion, for example.

As well as candle magick, simply lighting a candle can transform any space into a sacred one, setting the tone for meaningful work.

If you’re new to candle magick, try these:

• Great beginner set of 24 different coloured candles
• Complete set of black candles, ideal for dark moon, protection and banishment rituals and spells
• Pure beeswax tapers are IMO the creme de la creme of ritual and everyday candles
• Candle Magick for Beginners, a wonderful resource book for beginners

13. Incense, smudge or saining sticks

Incense has been part of rituals for centuries, and it remains a staple in my practice. I often burn cedar, propolis, and frankincense. And every year I make my own smoke bundles from mugwort, yarrow, rosemary and whatever else is calling to me that summer.

Be aware of appropriating certain herbs – smudging with white sage is a native American practice, whilst saining is a Scottish method of purification. Personally, I believe that the herbs growing around us locally are often the ones with the most to offer, not to mention being easy and readily available to work with.

Burn pure resin or incense blends on charcoal disks or an incense burner. Here are my recommendations:

• Smokeless burner this one is lovely and works exceptionally well.
• Cast iron incense burner to hold your burning charcoals
• Charcoal discs
• High-grade frankincense resin

14. Cauldron

A cauldron symbolizes transformation and creation. Mine is a small cast-iron pot I use for burning herbs, making small potions, or holding offerings.

It’s a womb-like tool that reminds me of the alchemy in everyday life, and the way intention and action can transform the mundane into the magical. Try these options:

• Cast iron cauldron: classic, versatile, high-quality
• Large cast iron cauldron simmer pot is a real statement caldron for BIG magickal workings
• Sweet triple moon cauldron

15. Phone apps for moon phases or astrology

Modern witches have access to tools our ancestors could only dream of.

I absolutely love Time Passages to track lunar cycles and astrological shifts. Time Nomad and Moonly are also highly recommended, to help ensure your spells are aligned with cosmic energies. Apps are such a convenient way to stay connected to the rhythm of the universe.

16. Spell bottles or jars

Spell jars are like mini altars sealed with intention. I fill mine with herbs, crystals, and symbols that align with a specific goal, like protection or self-love. They’re simple to create and serve as a physical reminder of the energy I’m cultivating.

• 30ml glass jars the perfect size
• 20ml glass jars with screw eyes are great for hanging charms

17. Witch bells

Witch bells are a simple yet powerful tool for protection. Hung on doors or windows, their soft chime wards off negative energy and keeps your space cleansed.

I made mine by tying brass bells to a ribbon, and each gentle sound feels like a little reminder that my home is safeguarded. You make or buy your own, and customize them with charms or crystals, making them a beautiful blend of magic and practicality. Here are a few options:

• 2 Piece set of hanging witch bells
• Simple, classic witch bells, ideal for customising
• Brass minimal cow bell (I really love these)

18. Ancestral or spirit communication tools

This is where tools and practices start to get really individual.

We all have different ways of connecting with Spirit, and the ancient ones who came before. You could try lighting a candle,  journeying with a drum, burning specific herbs, singing or humming.

Experiment to find a practice and tools that resonate, and then cultivate a relationship with them.

19. Energy Clearing Spray or Mist

For situations where burning incense isn’t possible, a cleansing spray works wonders. I make my own with moon water and essential oils, and it’s become a go-to for resetting the energy in my home or on the go.

19. Portable altar kit

A portable altar has been a game-changer for me. It’s a small pouch with essentials like a crystal, a mini candle, and a feather, for example.

Whether you’re travelling or working in a shared space, a portable altar, containing versions of many of the items on this list, will allow me to create a sacred moment wherever you are.

Craft your own path

These tools are the foundation of my practice, but remember that witchcraft is deeply personal. You don’t need every item on this list, and the ones you choose should feel meaningful to you.

Start where you are, trust your intuition, and let your practice grow organically.

Magic isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection – both with yourself and the world around you, and this takes time and devotion.

May your path be filled with intention, discovery, growth, and love!