Cord Magick
Cords are a type of talisman used to store magickal power so that it may be released at the most effective time. Cord magick is done over a longer duration so that the practitioner must intentionally concentrate on the purpose of the spell, thus giving it more influence.
Creating a magickal cord begins with a three foot long piece of general cord, preferably of natural material. (A one foot cord may be used if preferred.) It can be made of three strands braided together if a thicker cord is desired, with similarly colored thread fastening the ends so the strands do not come undone. Cotton yarn is a good material for cord magick, since it is thick enough for easy handling but still pliable for easy knotting. Distinguishing medallions may be attached to indicate the left end from the right end.
Throughout the tying ceremony, keep the objective of the spell firmly in mind so that the correct powers are projected into the cord.
Tie each knot in the cord as the corresponding line is spoken.
--2---6---5---9---1---8---4---7---3--
By knot of one, the spell's begun.
By knot of two, it shall be true.
By knot of three, so mote it be.
By knot of four, let power soar.
By knot of five, the spell's alive.
By knot of six, this spell I fix.
By knot of seven, this I leaven.
By knot of eight, not long to wait.
By knot of nine, what's done is mine.
On the appropriate day (nine days before the intended event of the spell), begin untying the knots, one per day for consecutive days, in the same order in which they were tied. Concentrate on the objective of the spell as each knot is undone.
By the sixth day, enough power has been released to start having an effect, so at that point there is no turning back. On the ninth day, the spell will be fully engaged and the intended effect will begin to be seen.
Witch's Ladder
A Witch's Ladder is a specific type of cord that works for longer durations. The way it is created and used varies from that of a typical cord. The cord of a Witch's Ladder is always three feet in length, and its color should coincide with its purpose. In addition, a bead or other type of decoration is generally placed at each knot. This is intended to help hold the power in the cord longer.
The order in which the knots are tied varies from ordinary cord magick. The first knot is still in the center, but each subsequent knot works outward from the center, alternating from side to side.
--8---6---4---2---1---3---5---7---9--
Unlike a typical cord, the knots in a Witch's Ladder are never untied. As the holder of the talisman rubs or flexes it, the power is slowly released. This makes the cord effective over a longer period of time.