Spellcrafting is what witches are generally renowned for in fairytales and legends - and, to be fair, it's probably the most powerful weapon in a witch's arsenal. Many people are sceptical of magic and spells, which is fair enough as everyone is entitled to their own opinion. In my experience however, and that of many others, magic works ... because we make it work.

Sounds simple, doesn't it? That's because it is simple - the key to casting a successful spell is in the intent - it's the 'oomph', if you like, that you put behind it that makes it work. A spell is like most ventures in life, if you don't truly believe that it will succeed then you're doomed before you even start.

So, what is required for spellcasting? A clear idea of what you're aiming to achieve is a good place to begin, as is an awareness of your limitations. Limitations? You might be surprised that I would suggest such a thing, but it's true. You might, per se, want to cast a spell for world peace: would you really expect events in the world to change immediately as a result of your spell? Of course not, but it would be reasonable to take the stance that if you cast your spell for world peace, others might well be doing the same. If people continue to cast these spells, then in time they may have a cumulative, subtle, effect. Perhaps that sounds hopelessly optimistic, and more than a little naive, to the sceptics amongst you - but I believe it's native to the way a witch thinks - to be aware that every action has a consequence (either bad or good - although the concept of 'bad' and 'good' are very subjective), and that the energy we 'tap into' is all linked together ... so why should the idea of affecting the world be beyond us?

What else does one need to cast a spell? A cauldron? A wand? A priceless athame and chalice? Not at all, a witch shouldn't need 'props' to work her magic otherwise what on earth would she do if stranded somewhere without her equipment? A good witch, in my opinion, uses what there is to hand (if anything). When you start out casting spells, you may well find that 'props' are necessary to help you to focus your intent; as you progress, you may discover that visualisation can take the place of physical aids in the casting of spells. An example? If you were casting a spell involving a car (perhaps you're looking to buy a car and want to get the best deal possible on a particular model) it would be handy to have a small model of a car to focus on as it would allow you to concentrate more of your energy on the spell itself, rather than fretting about visualising what you want. With experience comes the ability to visualise the object of your spell clearly, but still be able to concentrate on the force you're putting behind it.

So, what happens if your spell doesn't work? Firstly, you can't predict how the result of a spell will manifest itself - you might be in a bit of financial trouble and wish for money, but the chances of you waking up to find a pile of cash on your doorstep are slim to say the least. Instead, you might find that an account has been credited with money you weren't expecting (perhaps someone paying back money unexpectedly, but at the time you need it most), or you might get a partial refund on something that you've ordered because the prices have changed - you might even just find that the money you have seems to go further than usual. I can almost hear the sceptics out there scoffing at this, no doubt they will say that witches just look for things that corroborate their spells and take advantage of them. Once again, I say 'fair enough' - people will believe what they want to believe. For my part, money spells usually work (if I truly need the money, and I'm not just wishing I could buy new shoes...) - it's hard to see how even a sceptic can write off an entire month's wages turning up after I had left that particular job.

For those who are curious, I took a temporary job a few years ago and, after the job ended I cast a spell for some money to help me with my rent (as I had yet to find another job) - lo and behold, the following month wages were paid in as though I hadn't left. Now, I believe that if you recieve money due to magical means, you give some back - so I gave a little to charity. The following month another lot of wages was paid into my account. Still sceptical? Whatever you believe, those two 'gifts' of money kept me going until I found another job (which was shortly after the second lot). I don't abuse money spells, I ask only for what I need and am grateful for what I receive whether it be five pounds or five hundred pounds.

Yes, even five pounds - although if you have to question it, you've obviously never really wanted for money. Always be appreciative of what you receive - and remember that you 'get what you give'. I always share my good fortune, whether by a donation to charity, or a gift to a friend who deserves it. If you are selfish, then you can in time expect your 'luck' to run out.

Hopefully you've learned a little about spellcraft, to recap the basics:

- Intent: know what you want, and have the passion to achieve it.

- Limitations: everyone has limitations, there's no shame in that - remember that even a small result is a result. If your spell doesn't work exactly as planned, accept it and just be appreciative that it worked at all!

- Tools: we all need props sometimes, but be wary of parting with large sums of money for a tool that you could just as easily substitute with something you already own. Spending a fortune on a beautifully decorated ritual knife may make your spellcasting prettier, but it will make your bank balance look dreadful... and a kitchen knife will work just as well.

I could write about this subject until the cows come home, but I'll leave it at that - for now at any rate. By all means buy 'spell books' if you like, but remember that no spell is as effective as one that you craft yourself. The spells in those mass-manufactured books will work (remember, it's the intent, and it's you who make it work), but one that you've 'designed' yourself will, in my humble estimation, work better because you've put part of yourself into it.

If you have any questions about spellcrafting, please feel free to contact me by e-mail or to visit www.wildwitchin.co.uk.