An old Pagan custom associated with Lammas is the making of a corn doll from the last sheaf of corn from a harvest. For good luck throughout the coming twelve months, the corn doll is traditionally hung up in the kitchen or in the chimney, and kept there until the following Lammas, when it is ritually burned. It is said that if the previous year's corn doll is not removed before Christmas, the next harvest will be a poor one. To make a traditional Witch's corn doll for good luck, twist or tie together a few husks of corn into a small female figure. If desired, you may dress the corn doll and decorate it with dried flowers. Anoint it with a few drops of frankincense or clove oil, and then pass it twelve times through the smoke of burning sage to consecrate it as you chant your intent over it. |