Practical magic is what I like, and I want to be able to get all my magical resources in an instant when I feel the inspiration or need to cast a spell of a particular type. As witches, we seem to amass over time a large supply of magical resources and equipment, from pots and pans to oils, incense, herbs, salts, and all manner of things.

Therefore, I created a magic cupboard, a place in my kitchen where all things used for magic and magic only are given special pride of place. I do not have these items mixing with everyday things. For example, I do not allow a pan that was used for a spell to be used for everyday cooking. There are a couple of reasons for this: one, it diminishes the spell and magic, and two, I want to avoid cross-contamination between the spell ingredients and the food, especially if I’m cooking for other people. Plus, it goes against what I was taught regarding magic: to grow your knowledge of magic and always respect your magical resources.

In your kitchen or wherever you have room, clean out the cupboard you will be using and then waft some sage around it to cleanse it or place a bowl of salt in it for twenty-four hours. Then remove the salt and place your magical items in the cupboard. As you do so, say this spell over the items:

In this cupboard, safe you shall be

From all manner of negativity.

When you are called, I ask of thee,

To perform in perfection in my witchery.

The space doesn’t have to be a cupboard and can even be just a box or a bag. It just needs to be something special to keep your magical resources separate from your everyday items.