Cork board “Altar” for the studious witch

guatebruja:

Alright brujitas, I’m not quite sure how often studyblr would cross with witchblr. But what I do know is a lot of witches, me included, have limited space and need our precious tables or nightstands for our every day objects. Altars are traditionally a desk of some sort, with flat surface space for all necessary items and a storage space for items not currently in use (spare candles, matches, etc).

I want to say that a lot of the “best” and idolized altars are giant wood desks with statues and figures, crystal grids of all specimens, and candles upon candles with plenty of space for a thick grimoire. But this isn’t necessary, it’s difficult to maintain (especially college kid witches, apartment dwellers, and more), it also isn’t really better than any other altar. What works for your space and your abilities is what is best for you! For some of us, a cork board altar would be a great place to start.

How to use:

I say “altar” because it could be used as an extension to your grimoire, if you are someone who loves theorizing then it could easily be used to connect and visualize your thoughts or findings before you write them. If you have an altar with limited space, having a cork board near the altar for current spell workings would also be fantastic!

*Make sure your cork board is properly secured to the wall, and that your pins are sturdy

What to pin:

Any papers relevant to your studies is an obvious go to, but here are some tips to make it a bit more unique and witchy:

• Pouches: Small pouches meant to be stuffed into gift bags or for herbs would be perfect to store here. They don’t weigh a thing and be easily secured with pins while maintaining easy access to the materials inside. You can store herbs, flowers, some offerings, crystals, or various candles in these pouches. If you find pouches small enough, you could also make a quick crystal grid.
• Sigils: Cork boards are perfect for sigils, and you have wider options than just pinning up one drawn on paper. You can make your sigils from formations of the pins (and when the pins are actually used and the sigil is broken up, you can consider it activated then). Or, if you like being crafty, a really quick string art of your sigil can be done in seconds (all you need now is embroidery floss). 
• If you do happen to be studying for something, you can use your cork board to post all of the needed information and use it as a charging station to aid in your studies. Part of being a witch is to set yourself up for success after all, and having your information in a location you are going to visit every day is a pretty solid step to take.
• And of course, images. You do not need a big fancy statue, when you can easily find a historical art concept of your deities. Or brilliant pictures of the animals, planets, etc that you use in your craft. This is a much cheaper alternative and easier to move on from if your craft is ever adjusted. Tip – make a collage on your cork board as an offering to one of your deities.

Don’t forget the decorations! You can also add strings and ribbons, dried flowers, pendants, among other things to the board.