Yule Log Crafts and Magic

The Yule log was used by the Celts in their Yule celebrations and rituals. It was usually made from an Oak tree, and decorated with evergreens, mistletoe and holly. Burning the Yule log comes to us from the tradition of the Yule bonfire which symbolized the power of the sun, which was thought to be reborn at the Winter Solstice.

There are many different crafts and magical rituals you can do with a Yule log. For your Yule ritual, take a log of oak or pine (really anything you can get easily) Cut out three holes on the top, you can cover it with some varnish or sealant so it wont dry out. Now put three chime candles in, colors of red, black and white to represent the Goddess. Now you can use this for your Yule ritual! You can also take your Yule log on the night of Yule, carve some symbols in it representing your hopes for the coming year, decorate it with some red ribbon and holly, and then burn it to release its powers.

Making and using a Yule log can become a great family tradition! Kids love making holiday crafts and it's a good way to introduce them to your Pagan faith. A great little craft to do with kids, is to make mini Yule log ornaments. You can give these away as gifts for Yule, or just simply hang them on your own tree.

Mini Yule Log Ornaments

*A stick about 3 in long
*Red yarn or ribbon
*Small feathers
*Small pieces of evergreen like pine, holly, fir
*Seed beads in your choice of colors
*Hot glue gun

Decorate each small log with the feathers, evergreens and seed beads. Tie a piece of red yarn or ribbon around the center and knot it in a bow. To hang as a tree ornament, add a small ornament hook or a bent paperclip.

These are very easy to make and fun too! Enjoy making your Yule log family traditions!

Yule log ornaments is from About.com

Blessings )O(



Photo courtesy of GardenSpirit.net