Once you’ve been using the runes for a while, it’s natural to want to make your own set of rune stones. Crafting a set of staves, imbued with your own unique energy and intention, can help you connect even further with the symbols and their meanings.
If you’re unsure where to start, keep reading!
In this article, we will explore the history and significance of rune stones, guide you through the process of crafting your own, and show you how to use them for divination, self-discovery, and spiritual growth.
The History and Significance of Rune Stones
To truly appreciate the power of rune stones, it helps to understand their origins. The earliest runic inscriptions date back to the 2nd century AD, with variations found in Europe, Scandinavia, and beyond. In their earliest form, runes were used as a system of symbols for communication, often inscribed on wooden or bone objects. Over time, the symbols evolved into a complete runic alphabet, with each letter corresponding to a specific sound, meaning, and potential interpretation.
The use of rune stones as a tool for divination and spiritual growth continued throughout the ages, with different cultures adding their own meanings and interpretations to the symbols. Today, rune stones are used by many practitioners of various spiritual practices, from those who identify as pagan or Norse-inspired, to those who simply appreciate the symbolic power of the runes.
Understanding the significance of rune stones can help you infuse your own set with even more meaning and intention. With that in mind, let’s delve into the practical considerations of creating your own personalized rune stones.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Runes
Step 1: Choosing the right materials
When creating your own set of rune stones, the choice of materials is an important consideration. While they can be crafted from almost anything, the most traditional materials are those that connect us to nature, such as wood, stone or bone.
Wooden rune stones have a warm and natural feel that aligns with the earthy symbolism of the runes. The grain of the wood can also add a unique and interesting element to each stone. Wood can be found almost anywhere so it’s a very accessible material choice. Find a branch as big around as you’d like your stones to be, then cut 24 slices of the same thickness using a small hand-saw. You can strip the bark or leave them as is.
Alternatively, using stones as the base for your set can give your runes a strong and grounding energy. Go on a nature walk to hunt down 24 smooth round stones of approximately the same size or head to your local metaphysical shop to pick out some crystals to use. Stones such as amethyst, quartz or jasper can be used to add additional meaning to your set based on each crystal’s individual properties.
Another option is to craft your runes from bone. Bone is durable and long-lasting, making it a perfect material for a set of divination tools. It can also add a greater sense of depth and connection to the spiritual world. Take care when handling bone, making sure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and wear a mask when cutting your pieces.
Whichever material you choose, ensure that it resonates with you and holds a special meaning.
With the right materials in hand, you can move on to step 2.
Step 2: Gather your tools
Once you’ve made your decision on which material to use, now it’s time to start crafting your runes.
First you’ll have to decide how you will be marking the symbols.
If you’re using wood, you can burn the symbols in with a heat pen or carve them in with a whittling knife.
Softer stones may be able to be carved in with a dremel but it may be easier to paint your symbols on. You can use acrylic paint, oil based paint pens, or even nailpolish. Be sure to followup with a good sealant to keep your symbols from wearing off.
Bone can be dyed, using a wax resist to leave the symbols bone-white, or painted as you would stones.
Gather up everything you’ll need for your method of choice – including sandpaper for wood, gloves if you’re using dye, and a pencil to trace out your symbols.
Step 3: Prepare the Stones
Prepare your pieces by sanding them smooth and cleaning them of any dust or dirt. When you think you’re done, take a minute to hold a few in your hand and see how they feel.
If they’re rough or catch your skin, keep working them until they’re smooth to the touch. It’s important not to rush this step. If your rune stones don’t feel nice, you’ll notice it every time you go to use them, interrupting your focus on the ritual.
Step 4: Draw the Symbols
Once your stones are prepared, start by drawing the outline of the symbols onto the material you’ve chosen. This can be done by hand or by using stencils.
Next, carefully carve, burn, or paint your symbols on each piece, making sure to follow the outline you drew. Take your time with this step, as precision is key to creating a set of clear and concise runes. Once all the runes are marked out, use the sandpaper again to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces.
After sanding, you may want to seal your runes. Use a small paintbrush to apply a sealant to each individual rune, making sure to cover all exposed surfaces. This will protect the runes from damage and give them a polished finish.
Let them dry fully before handling them.
Step 5: Charge your Runes
Lastly, it’s important to imbue your runes with your own unique energy and intention before using them in a ritual or reading. These runes are new to you and you’ll need to familiarize yourself with them in order to create a strong connection.
This can be done through meditation, visualization, or by simply holding each rune in your hand and focusing on its purpose. Take the time to infuse each rune with your own energy before beginning to use them for divination.
Once this is done, then your runes are ready to use in your practice.
Using your personalized rune stones for divination and self-discovery
Using your personalized rune stones for divination and self-discovery is a powerful experience that can enhance any spiritual practice.
When you feel that your runes have been consecrated, it is time to use them for the purpose they were created for. You can ask specific questions or simply use them to gain a deeper understanding of your situation or emotions. Trust your intuition and allow the runes to guide you towards hidden insights and wisdom.
Interpreting the Runes
To truly harness the power of your personalized rune stones, it’s important to understand the meanings behind each individual symbol. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the symbolism of each rune will allow you to better interpret the messages they convey.
It’s important to note that the meanings of each rune can vary slightly depending on the tradition or interpretation. However, many of the basic principles remain the same. For example, the first rune, Fehu, represents wealth and abundance, while Tiwaz embodies courage and justice.
As you begin to work with your runes, take the time to meditate on each symbol, paying attention to any thoughts or emotions that surface. You may also want to do some research on the history and mythology behind each rune. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism and its potential implications.
Once you have a good grasp on the meanings behind each individual rune, you’ll be better equipped to interpret the messages they convey when you cast them. This will allow you to tap into the hidden insights and wisdom that your personalized runes hold.
By creating and using your own set of runes, you can reap a multitude of benefits both spiritually and personally.
Overall, incorporating your handcrafted stones into your spiritual practice can enhance your connection to yourself and the universe, providing a tool for introspection, divination, and manifestation.