Re-Finishing Used Furniture to Make an Altar

I wanted to talk about making an altar out of used furniture. This can be a table, a trunk, a bookcase even a plant stand. Whatever you find that suits your purpose, can be turned into a truly magickal piece.

I really like to use a trunk as an altar because it can hold all of your ritual tools, candles, herbs etc. But no matter what you are using there are a few things you can do to make it your own.

First of all, you need to decide if you are going to paint it or stain it or even Mod Podge it. Are you going to carve or paint any symbols onto it? If so, what symbols? Make sure you know exactly what they mean because that’s the energy they will call. You could also paint it a certain color that represents your tradition. You may want to put a shiny clear coat of varnish on it. Have all of your tools and paints ready to go.

Now you need to physically clean the item. Get into all the nooks and crannies with hot soapy water. I like to use castile soap because it’s plant based and gentle. Use a brush if necessary to get into all the crevices.

If you like to work within a circle, now is the time to cast it. You could also mark an informal circle with salt just to keep negative energy out of your space. Follow your intuition and your tradition.

Next you will want to cleanse the piece with smoke. I like to use lavender or sandalwood but you can use whatever incense or herb bundle you usually use.

Then you can waft the smoke over your paints and other tools you will use in the refinishing process.

Next, you can go on to the carving, painting, staining, etc. Keep your intention in mind the whole time. Really focus on your path and your goals and making this altar sacred.

Depending on what you’re doing, the piece may need drying time in between applications. It is perfectly fine to leave the space and go about other things in the meantime. If you have cast a formal circle, open it. You can then cast a new one when it is time to return to your project. When you return, ground and center to re-align yourself with your task.

Once the altar is complete, it is ready to be consecrated. You can follow whatever way your tradition suggests. I like to use the elements along with deity during the consecration ritual ending with a drop of my personal perfume to make it mine. Lastly, I decorate it with my traditional altar items.

Now you are ready to use your altar. I suggest using it right away. That’s the best start you can give it. You can do something as simple as lighting a candle to give thanks for this amazing item coming into your life. Congrats on your new altar!

I would love to see pics of your projects. Send them to me and I’ll post them.

Many blessings,

Lady Black

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