Make Your Own Runes
In Norse traditions, divination is done by casting runes. Many of those walking the pagan path will occasionally turn to this art of divination. Rune casting isn't fortune-telling, but a guidance tool that works with your subconscious to help solve problems by looking at potential outcomes. Most people who cast runes find that the best way to incorporate them into divination is to ask specific questions based on the current situation and let the symbols speak for themselves.
The runes are an ancient alphabet, referred to as the Elder Futhark. In Norse legend, the runic alphabet was discovered by Odin, and so the runes are more than just a collection of handy symbols one could carve on a stick. They symbolize great universal forces, and the gods themselves.
If this is a form of divination you’ve been looking into exploring, you can not only learn how to use this tool but make your own!
Runes can be created using wooden discs, beach/river stones or gemstones. When selecting what items you will be using as the base of your runes, make sure they are more or less of equal size and shape. The Elder Futhark runes have 24 symbols in total, so make sure to collect 24 items and a few extra stones or wood pieces in case of any mistakes while making them. Before painting or carving your runes, make sure to clear your workspace, and then ground and center yourself. Meditate on your intentions for the rune set. What do you want to use them for? As you carve or paint the stones, you can chant the name of the rune and visualize its meaning to invoke its power into the rune itself.
Using Wooden Discs
Pencil out the symbols on the wooden discs. Then burn the symbol into the wood using a pyrography tool or put it into a vice and carve the symbol with a dremel tool. Wash the runes and allow them to dry. Paint over the carved symbols with any colored paint you prefer. Once the paint is dry, seal the runes with olive oil and any essential oils that align with your intentions for then.
Using River Stones Or Beach Stones
Wash the stones thoroughly. Paint with enamel or acrylic paint. After drying, seal the stones with a clear stone sealer.
Using Gemstones
Mark stones with permanent marker. Carve with a diamond cutting wheel on a Dremel tool. Fill the symbols with enamel paint or epoxy resin.