The Book of Shadows

The Book of Shadows is also a very precious tool to most Witches, it can become literally a part and parcel of the Witch, as it contains all the knowledge connected to the Witch. Because of the rigid relationship between book and Witch, its very important to keep this tool especially hidden and secret. It's very possible that other Witches will know you have one, but very few will ask for it. thios is because the sharing of such books is best restricted to those individuals whom you trust the most.
To make a Book of Shadows, you just need an empty book. Traditionally it has a black cover. This is reflective of history in some opinions, and in others it serves as a boundary no negative energy can cross. this keeps spells off your book and keeps other peoples energies from intruding into your working. It also helps to keep people from reading or stealing it.
The book should contain any spell you use, any potion you make, any piece of wisdom you learn on your path. It will become your most respected companion, and with time and care it can become a very magical object. It must be written in your own "hand of writ" which could mean anything from your own handwriting to your own words depending on how you take it.
The Book of Shadows is generally protected by an enchantment written on the front of the first page. Below I have given an example from my own Book of Shadows:

This book is protected

By the Magic it weaves
Cover of black
Magical leaves
Precious ink
Holy power
Guide my charms and spells in this crucial hour.
Spirits, forces, gods and powers
this book will serve only me
And as my witchcraft lushly flowers
Stronger this book will be.


You can change this, or use it as is, or even start from scratch and write your own. If it works better for you than do it.
The Book of Shadows corresponds to air, and is aligned with the South.

Thanks to Annathea on deviantart.com for the lovely pic.