Magic Forums

Hello, I have not practiced magic in a long time and want to make sure I do it right. I have my alter set up but wanted to know if you should Anoint your alter before casting a spell. Do you always do a protection circle? I also I anted to know if the alter has to be set up in the north, I saw on another website to set it up in the east. I did a blood candle spell and I don't know if I did it right. I have always had problems with unseen forces knocking on walls and talking to us and the night I cast the spell something grabbed my neck in the middle of the night. If you could just give me a small example of how you prepare for a spell it would be great. Thanks roamingelf.