Profile: Claire Tobyn
Company: Claire’s Cauldron
What is in your toolkit?
Anything natural for me: Crystals, herbs, the Elements and of course, my Tarot cards.
Introduce Yourself:
I am Claire, an Elemental pagan who loves the little things in life. Handwritten cards, Listening to the breeze, Remembering people's birthdays - not because of Facebook!
When it comes to witchcraft, the intent is the most important part of the spells. This is why everything I make is important to me, as a little part of me goes into your spell.
How did you find your path?
I was always out in nature as a child, as many are growing up, but something was different for me. There was this connection I felt to … something. As a kid, I found myself being enamoured by the flame of a candle, and when stressed, I'd turn to cool water on my wrists to calm me down. When feeling lost, I'd turn to the woods (ironic, I know), and when I feel alive, it's on the windiest of days. The common thread? The Elements.
I was an avid reader growing up and researching everything I heard about - I was that kid whenever we went somewhere to ask the most random question to the poor tour guides. Knowledge fascinated me, and the more I researched my connection to the Elements, it led me to the Celtic and Pagan religions - and I was home. I suddenly found how I could use the elements as a guide, as a tool, and as a friend.
Where do you think it will lead?
As part of the Crystal Shack Academy, I hope to create more workshops and courses to be able to teach and share the knowledge I have. I tend to specialise in sigil and spell work, including handfasting cords and witch balls.
What is the most important thing in your craft?
Intention is everything in my craft. The intent that you put into the spell is what makes the magic. I like to show my commitment to the craft by collecting the ingredients - for instance, if I need water, I will collect rainwater. I bless all my parchments with the elements and do so under a full moon. This is how I strengthen my connection to the world.
What is the message you want to share?
Follow your gut instinct and remember that intention is the key to everything.