A Basic Witches Wand??

Question

I was reading about making a basic wand, and most sites say driftwood is the best. I don't have any driftwood... I live in the mountains and it's very hard to find. They said other sticks will do, but I was wondering... would bamboo work? I have many bamboo trees in my backyard. It is smooth and very tough.

Answer 1

Unless you follow a path that requires particular materials, I wouldn't worry about it. If you feel a connection to bamboo, why not use that? You could ritually cut the piece you need and then fill it with special things that have meaning for you, and even add a copper wire through it to help direct energy. Then ritually seal the wand. Perhaps it would make it more sacred to vow never to tell anyone what is in your personal wand. You could carve meaningful symbols on the outside that others may see, but only you would know the inner beauty of your wand.

Of course if you don't feel a connection to bamboo, I don't recommend using it. Your wand needs to be something that you feel a strong connection with. Is there a particular myth that is your favorite? If so, are there any types of wood/trees mentioned in the myth? Do you have a deity that is strongly associated with any particular wood/tree? Did you have a favorite tree when you were a child that you could visit and ask for a branch?

Just trying to give different ideas.

Answer 2

Driftwood is usually used by some because it is from between spaces and elements. Most others use wood from a living tree after asking it's permission. Usually you would tie a white cloth around the limb just above the cut and tap 3 times so the spirit of the tree can leave that branch. It is customary to leave an offering either to the tree or to Nature in general. Usually to help make the wand personal it is the length from your elbow to your fingertips.

Personally I use an oak branch as that is the wood that I am most in tune with. You might want to look into books like "Tree Wisdom" and see what properties bamboo is used for but I am sure it will be fine if that is the type of wood that calls to you.

Blessed Be )O(

Answer 3

If you feel a special love or affinity with bamboo, perhaps it is right for you. I agree with a previous answer, though, that its being hollow might not be a good thing. But then again, it might be perfect for you. Maybe you could stuff it with herbs or something, and wrap it with leather or silver wire so it doen't split?

I made mine out of mimosa, because I love mimosa very much. I took the branch from a tree in my parents' yard (my childhood home) that was very special to me. Then I watered the tree and left a small offering.

You might want to look into the "magical" or "spiritual" properties of different trees when making your decision. (These can be found under herbal correspondences) For example, Mimosa and Apple are herbs of Love. Pine and Willow are herbs of Healing. Holly is an herb of Protection. Cedar and Oak are Wealth and Success. Cedar, Oak, and Pine are also Consecration and Purification. Many fall under several categories.

I believe that the most important thing is to find one that feels right to you.

This could sound crazy to those not of pagan beliefs, but you might want to ask the tree if it is right for you, or to give you its blessing. Most trees I've spoken with really are quite friendly :-)(No, they don't TALK back.) You just get a feeling, and if you're lucky, distinct thoughts in your head. You have to listen.

Blessings upon your endeavors.

Answer 4

hopefully you can find a stand of trees near you. Fallen wood does work better, but with Bamboo hollowing out and cracking as it dries, it's not a good wood to use. Every wood has different properties. Learn how to identify the trees local to you, and pick a tree that works with what you want. Like Oak trees for Strength. Then identify an oak tree, and look for fallen branches underneath it. :)

Hope that helps!

Answer 5

How bout trying ebony branch. bamboo can be used too because the hollow interior will provide energy storage. Drift wood is perfect (based on other peoples perspective) and you could just buy it on the internet. Oak is also a good wand And I personally use an oak staff.

Answer 6

A wooden wand serves to project your energy to a certain place, thing, person or dimension. Wands can be made of wood or copper insulated by leather. A wooden wand should be taken from trees native to you locality. You will need to research the magickal properties of these trees to make the best choice. It is my belief that native trees should be used so your energy will coincide with that of the land around you. Energy patterns in different areas of the country vibrate on their own frequencies. Taking the wand from your own area will keep you in harmony with the land around you.

Answer 7

The wand is just the tool. The power comes from you and the universe. If bamboo feels right to you, then bamboo is right.

Answer 8

i think bamboo will not work because for me, it is hollow and being hollow is not good for a wand. another thing is better wands are made of wood and bamboo is not even a tree. i think it's a grass or something...i have read it in a book. well i'm just sharing my opinion.

Answer 9

Though not of the Wiccan (or any other nature-based pagan belief) religion, I'd have to say that yes, bamboo would work. A wand should be important and special to you, so work with what you have.

Answer 10

would suggest oak if available. however driftwood should be available through the Internet at Wicca supply stores. suggest you try the Internet first.