The witch’s ladder is a simple yet powerful tool in folk magic, used for intentions such as protection, healing, or manifesting your desires. Let’s walk through the process step by step, so even if you’re a complete beginner, you’ll feel confident creating your own.
First, gather your materials. You’ll need three strands of yarn or cord, each in a different color. The colors you choose can correspond to your intention—for example, red for passion or strength, white for purity or protection, and black for banishing negativity. But feel free to select colors that resonate with you personally. Each strand should be about a yard long, giving you enough length to work with.
Next, you’ll need nine small items to tie into your ladder. These can be beads, feathers, shells, buttons, or any other objects that are meaningful to you. The number nine is traditional and considered magical, representing completion and fulfillment. Try to choose items that are similar in size and shape, but feel free to mix colors or materials to suit your purpose.
(short pause) Once you have your materials, line up the three strands of yarn and tie them together in a single knot at one end. This knot will anchor your work and symbolize the beginning of your spell.
Secure the knotted end—either by taping it to a table, pinning it to a pillow, or asking a friend to hold it for you. This will make braiding much easier.
Begin braiding the three strands together. As you braid, pause every so often to tie in one of your chosen items. For example, after a few crossovers, thread a bead or feather onto one strand, then tie a sturdy knot to hold it in place. Continue braiding and adding items until all nine are incorporated, spacing them as evenly as possible along the length of the ladder.
Many practitioners like to chant or recite a rhyme as they work, focusing their intent with each knot. Here’s a traditional chant you can use, saying one line for each knot or item you add:
By knot of one, the spell’s begun.
By knot of two, the magic comes true.
By knot of three, so it shall be.
By knot of four, this power is stored.
By knot of five, my will shall drive.
By knot of six, the spell I fix.
By knot of seven, the future I leaven.
By knot of eight, my will be fate.
By knot of nine, what is done is mine.
As you tie each knot and add each item, focus on your intention. Visualize your goal—whether it’s protection, healing, or something else—flowing into the yarn, the knots, and the objects. With each knot, you’re binding your energy and will into the ladder.
When you reach the end and have added all nine items, tie a final knot to secure your work. At this point, you can choose to leave the ladder as a straight cord and hang it somewhere meaningful, such as above a doorway or on your altar. Alternatively, you can tie the two ends together to form a circle, which can symbolize unity, cycles, or eternity.
Your witch’s ladder is now complete. Whenever you see it, let it remind you of your intention and the energy you’ve woven into it. Over time, you can recharge it with your focus, or create new ladders for different purposes as your practice grows.
