Altar Starter Kit on a Budget

The basics

• A clean, stable surface: a shelf, a windowsill, or a tray you can move
• One candle in a heat-proof holder
• A small bowl of salt
• A cup or bowl for water
• A little incense or a dried herb bundle, if you tolerate smoke
• A feather, shell, or leaf for the element of Air
• One stone that means something to you

Then, only if you want them

• A cloth to lay underneath
• A small notebook to keep beside it
• A photo or object that honors someone you love

Note

You don't need to buy anything to begin. Gather items you already own or find outdoors.

Fire safety: keep candles on a heat-proof surface, away from anything that burns, and never leave them unattended.