Have you ever wanted your very own haunted doll? Would you like to incorporate poppets into your magickal practice but aren’t sure how to do so? Well, look no further. Dollcraft, Patti Negri’s latest book, is a deep dive into the allure and magick of dolls – specifically poppets and haunted dolls.

The book is divided into three main sections. The first focuses on haunted dolls and in it you will find historical beliefs, cultural significance and famous examples of haunted dolls. Negri then goes on to the practical steps of obtaining your own haunted doll. She details where to look for haunted dolls, how to determine if a doll is haunted or merely creepy and how to protect yourself if the doll is cursed or has a dark spirit in it. Additionally, if all else fails in seeking out your haunted doll, there are detailed instructions on how to create and enspirit your own doll. Finally, she gives thorough guidance on how to bond with and live in harmony with your haunted doll, including fun activities to do with your doll and how to use it in your spiritual practice.

The next section looks at poppet making basics. Starting with a quick overview of the history and uses of poppets, she then moves to the different types of poppets and materials they can be made out of (and where to order premade poppets if you don’t want to go the DIY route). She has chapters on color symbolism, incorporating plant magick and use of crystals and other natural materials. That section finishes with how to taglock, or personalize, your poppet and how to work with it.

The final section is a practical and creative toolkit on how to craft poppets, split into two parts. First she looks at a variety of materials and methods you can use to create your poppet, including no sew options. Next she goes over some poppets made for specific intentions, including prosperity, love, healing, binding and more. She includes materials and spells for these, making this a resource you will go back to time and time again.

Dollcraft is a comprehensive and inventive handbook for those interested in having a doll as a sacred companion and magickal tool. Negri is the perfect guide for this exploration, writing with warmth and deep knowledge and sharing that expertise in a down to earth and informative manner. I thought I knew a lot about both haunted dolls and poppets, but I learned so much and am so inspired to up my poppet making (however I, for one, will continue to admire haunted dolls from afar).

Whether you are a novice or have extensive experience working with dolls, the wealth of information within makes this a book that belongs on the shelf of anyone serious about folk magick.