How to Create a Book of Shadows

A Book of Shadows is an essential item to any practicing pagan. Also knows a Magickal Journal, Grimoire, Book of Light and Shadows, or a Book of Magick, a Book of Shadows is basically a journal that holds diary entries, spells, incantations, information, recipes, spiritual information, research, notes on books that have been read, and a variety of other entries that a pagan practitioner encounters along their path.

A practitioner does not have to be part of a coven or group, and does not even have to be on one direct path, in order to have a Book of Shadows. Though the term generally is used amongst Wiccans, anyone of any path can create and use a Book of Shadows. A practitioner does not have to be creative or even good at writing in order to create a book and there is no time reference for completion. A Book of Shadows is a personal thing and the basic rule of thumb is that whatever works for you, then use it.

FORMATS
Before beginning a Book of Shadows a practitioner must first decide on the format to use: a three-ring binder, computer, a hand-written bound journal, or a spiral notebook.

Three-ring Binder: This is perhaps one of the most organized and functional methods. Pages can be removed, inserted and pages can be taken out to make copies for friends. Also, many pagan stores, both online and offline, will sell decorative pages or spell sheets that fit three-ring binders. Cover sheets can be made, page dividers can be added for easy reference and most three-ring binders have pockets. A pen can even be tied to the rings so that a practitioner always has one handy for taking notes. Three-ring binders also lay flat when opened up which makes it hands-free for performing a spell.