The Creation and Use of Ancestor Dolls

The ancestor doll is a type of spirit vessel meant to anchor your ancestors in this world and allow them to manifest. They are also used as a portable ancestral altar. Many people find ancestor dolls easier to manage then a actual altar to deceased family members for a number of reasons. Firstly since they are dolls they are more covert than a altar thus allowing one to practice ancestor veneration in areas hostile to such beliefs. Secondly they don't require the same amount of upkeep as actual altar. Thirdly it is sometimes easier to talk to a physical representation of a person than apparently empty air. It is important to note that ancestor dolls are NOT toys for children. They are meant to be treated as people. They are talked to, offered food/drink/incense, taken with you when you travel, introduced to new family members such as children and spouses, etc. They are also filled with a number of ingredients that are assuredly dangerous if ingested.

So, how does one make an ancestor doll? The process is fortunately not complicated, and only the following items are needed. These are: clothes belonging to a deceased family member (or white cloth), two patterns (one male, one female), rosemary (for remembrance), althea leaves or root  (aka marshmallow, for benevolent spirits), wormwood (calling spirits), dandelion root (communication with the dead), your hair/nail clippings/dead skin/teeth/etc. (anchoring and connection). Balm of Gilead (for spirit manifestation), and graveyard dirt (from a crossroad in a cemetery). Additional requirements are a pair of scissors, needle and thread, and some pieces of paper. These pieces of paper are the most important ingredient in the creation of ancestor dolls. Upon them will be written the names of all ancestors you are aware of in your family tree. Any additional information such as their relation to you, likes and dislikes, favourite foods and drinks should be included if known. It is important that they be separated by gender as both a male and female doll should be made.

To begin, the patterns are pinned to the folded white cloth, making sure that a total of four pieces will be cut out. Once cut the two parts of each doll will be almost completely sewn together, creating an internal cavity. Next the ingredients are placed inside each doll in whatever order you desire. When the dolls are filled the sewing is completed sealing the herbs, dirt, personal concerns, and slips of paper within. The dolls will be left without faces when completed so each can represent multiple generations. They also should not be dressed in clothing with the exception of the dress included in the female pattern. This is to prevent the ancestors from being confused or offended upon finding their vessel strangely dressed. Cloth hair can be included in the designs.

Once the ancestor dolls are completed they should be consecrated in the name of your ancestors and charged with prayer (to the ancestors as well as other spiritual entities depending on your beliefs) and intent. From that point on they should be treated with respect. Don't get them dirty, don't swear in front of them, and don't mistreat them.
That's all for this post. Slainte mhaith!