On Pins and Needles: A Witch's Book of Poppetry & Figure Magic

by Kamden Cornell

Discover the art of magical figures. On Pins and Needles is a hands-on guide to crafting, empowering, and deploying poppets for real results. This book is rooted in tradition, enriched by personal practice, and designed to empower any witch’s craft.On Pins and Needles is a practical, grounded guide to the powerful magic of poppets and dolls. Blending deep traditional roots with insights from years of personal work, Kamden Cornell offers a thorough exploration of the creation, empowerment, and use of magical figures across a wide range of practices.Inside the book, you’ll find overviews of materia, construction methods, activation techniques, and deployment strategies―everything needed to bring these magical constructs to life with purpose and precision. The author shares not only time-tested practices but also original charms and workings, many of which appear here for the first time, providing readers with fresh tools to add to their craft.Whether you are new to doll magic or seeking to deepen an existing practice, On Pins and Needles serves as both a complete workbook and an inspiring source of ideas. Each page invites you to view effigies and simulacra not simply as vessels of intent but as living participants in your magical work.Rooted in traditional frameworks while offering a contemporary, flexible approach, this book supports practitioners across different paths, including witchcraft, folk magic, ceremonial practice, and beyond. Through careful instruction and practical wisdom, it opens the door to a richer, more dynamic relationship with the figures you create and the forces you call upon.

228 pages, Paperback

Published April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Ashlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you really want a very nitty gritty book on poppet magic rooted in folklore with tons of information and a bibliography this book is just 🤌🏻 so well done. I love making poppets and sewing and consider my needle to be my favorite tool in my craft this book really helped me really formalized the practice and be creative as well as cautious. I love that they really looked into both baneful and healing works you can do with your doll. Things I haven’t thought of doing such as using my old childhood doll rather than making them out of yarn or fabric. It really made me feel inspired plus they don’t approach their writing as dogma they give you the information and let you have the reigns. Such a great book on poppet magic and something that I love to see in the community of very niche among many other books. Plus the sources are so interesting that I wrote some down to venture into.

[Paola Dunbar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, sweet, and straight to the point!

This book is absolutely fantastic. There is zero extra fluff or unnecessary filler—just great, practical information. Because it is on the shorter side, it is the perfect guide for anyone who is short on time but wants to get straight to the fun part of actually making poppets. Highly recommended for busy crafters!

[Nicole Luttrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really a fantastic explanation of poppet magic. If you're new to the craft, this is the book you need.