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The ability to maintain a strong focus with a determined will is an essential aspect of spell casting. As an extremely effective focus for concentrating your will and intent is through the creation and use of a sigil. Basically a sigil is a symbol made up of a variety of geometric, pictorial or abstract designs which are used to signify a specific name or concept.
In the traditional medieval ritualistic and ceremonial magic systems sigils were used to represent the names of the various angelic and demonic spirits that were called forth in their work. The Lesser Key of Solomon for example lists dozens of sigils that represented the true names of many of the high ranking spirits of Hell and that through use of that 'true' name could gain a measure of control over the spirit. Other forms of kabalistic magic as well as ancient Jewish mysticism made great use of formalized sigils as a focus for the powers and entities they worked with. Often these 'names' were inscribed in talismans and magical tools to imbue a bit of the spirit of the named entity into the object.
In the modern age the use of sigils has become much more widespread and flexible. The idea of a personal identifying seal can be as ubiquitous as the legal representation of your name by merely initialing a document. For the practicing Witch or magician the sigil can have a deeper and more powerful use.
While there are some of the old established designs which are associated with specific powers and entities, creating your own sigils for spell work can imbue them with a more personal meaning. There are a number of ways to create a sigil. Combining the letters of one's name, overlaying and stylizing them can create a pattern that is uniquely representative.
A simple example on turning a couple of common names to personal sigils is shown below.
 
This process can work with almost anything. The important aspect of creating a sigil for yourself is that it have a specific and understandable logic to you.
Sigils can be used as a focus for a specific spell and the creation of a unique symbol can be done in many ways. On can practice a form of automatic writing in which they meditate on the project at hand while blindfolded with a pen held lightly over a paper so see what design comes from your deep subconscious. You can hold a slab of wood over a candle in much the same way and utilize the pattern burned into the wood. Once you have the initial pattern you can then stylize it and use the resultant design as the sigil that charges your spell.
Depending on the requirements of the particular spell you are working, the sigil may need to be inscribed on something flammable if it is to be burned to cast the spell. If it is used to create a talisman you will wish to carry with you, then placing it on a small, flat stone or wooden plug will give you an item that can be carried with you either in a pocket or on a chain.
These sigils are designed to help your mind create a thought-form that represents the idea or desire you are working toward. That it is a symbol that only you know aids in the mystique of the magic and makes it a more personalized and more powerful focus point for the exercise of your will.
Except for the kabalistic sigils which are already defined as to their shape and construction, you should feel free to experiment with the medium you use to create your personal and spell work sigils. Much of Witchcraft is concerned with the learning of the various forces and the times and materials that best work together for greater success. It is possible to general virtual sigils as well. Some modern practitioners have begun experimenting with the use of computers as ways to create spell focus points using the electricity that powers them as an aspect of fire in the performance of some spell work.
The art of sigil making is ancient and learning the basics is a good way to begin understanding the underlying principles of symbol making. From there, one's will and imagination can lead the growing practitioner to new heights of power and success as they learn how to form and formulate the symbols that are used to create the world of their desire.
As well as writing and researching on the paranormal and occult phenomena that intersect our reality, Douglas Mefford can also be found helping spread literature to the world at Bell, Book & Candle Publications or hanging out at his bungalow in Greenwoods Village.
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