
Do you have a wand? What wood would you use? Is there a correct length? Can I cut green wood to obtain one? Where do I start?
All of these are common questions that can be intimidating enough that people think that they shouldn't have a wand. I have worked with wood in a sacred manner for a very long time, and I sell wands and staffs. So here are my opinions on the question of wands.
The choice of which wood to use is like (to me) going into a candy store! These people, the standing people, are as varied in demeanor as the stars! Yes, certain types of trees will generally have certain traits, but start your quest understanding that each tree has its own personality just like us. Some are very friendly to everyone. Some will like certain people and not others, and some, these are rare, don't like anyone. One way to choose a wood is to just think about your life, from childhood to present. Are there certain trees that stand out in your memory? An example is that although I grew up in the mountains surrounded by miles of pine, my house was in an aspen grove. I find them quite friendly to me as a group, whereas I have met some pines that have been aloof to the point of being rude! Another very acceptable way of choosing a wood is using our imagination. "Druids, I've read, used oak(hazel, elder, yew, etc) for their wands." So here, at least, you have a place to start.
As far as size...there are no rules. Make it a length that feels good to you. Keppens are small, like 3" wands that can easily fit in a purse or pocket. Wands are typically anything from ten inches to fifteen approximately. Then, we move into sceptors. Maybe 3 feet long. And on to staffs, mid bicep up to head height there abouts. So, as you can see, your wand can be ANY length!
It has been my experience, and I know this goes against what some people believe, trees physically feel things differently than we do. After sitting with a tree and talking to it several times in a heartfelt manner, trees are THE best listeners, I will ask the tree if it is ok to cut it for a wand. I have found that most trees whom I've made friends with are greatly honored to give me wand wood. I never just take. I will always leave something honorable in exchange. I will give caution here to taking hawthorn(a known fayerie tree), elderberry, yew and elm(another Fayerie tree). It is better to take wood that's already down from these people but you must still be very careful and honorable in the taking.
If you have questions ask me. But I think I may make a series of posts on the subject of wands.