by Rayne Poppy


A single person sits in the middle of a small apartment deep in meditation. She opens she stands up, almost bumping her head on the TV tray she’s using as an altar table and knocking her bum on the front of the TV stand. She stands up to start casting the circle, which ends up being maybe 2 feet across if that! It’s obvious that there’s not much space as she hops on her couch to call the East quarter. It becomes even more obvious when she assumes Goddess pose and smacks her hand on the bookshelf. This is prime example of someone that could really use a portable altar setup!

Portable altar setups are a great option for those who have very little space (like our poor Witch who can’t move 2 feet in her house!) They are also a wonderful option for the traveling Witch. Of course we know that an altar is another one of those totally optional things but for those who want them but don’t have the room, aren’t home, or just want to be prepared, they are a great option.

Making a portable altar is super easy and you can put one together in a short time with objects you have laying around your house.

Recommended Supplies

• Wooden cigar box
• Small letter opener
• Small stick of wood
• 3 Tea light candles
• A small rock
• A small feather
• A small bottle (travel shampoo) filled with ritual water
• A small seashell that can hold some water (or a small bowl or teacup)
• A cloth to use as an altar cloth (doubles as a cushion for your supplies!)

Of course, if you don’t have these items readily available you can always substitute with what you do have on hand. Just think portability and you’ll be fine!

Place the cloth inside the box and arrange the items in the box. Fold the cloth over to cover the supplies and close it up! It’s that simple. You can always decorate the box as you see fit. Use photos, printed images or magazine clippings to decoupage the box.

Should you opt not to use candles or incense with your altar setup you can glue the objects right into the box. Just get some super glue or even a hot glue gun and glue each item into the bottom of the box in the corresponding direction. Fold up the cloth and put it on top after everything dries and you’re set!

When you’re ready to go on a trip or take your ritual practices out of the house just put this altar in a box right in your bag and you’re set. These fit nicely in a desk or dresser drawer for easy storage.