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Tools are actually astral anchors so there is a good reason for making and using them, as you progress the less you actually will rely on them because the physical tools become a part of you. You can actually perform better on the astral because you have actual physical experience with its physical counterpart.
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My first magickal experiences related to the air element and the energies of trees. I got to be connected to certain trees around my home.
One such tree, a willow which I especially associated with air, was struck by lightning. Before it was removed, I took a branch and made a wand. It was very small, and eventually snapped, but had, by far, the best sense of energy focus I've ever felt.
So I recommend something like that to anyone who is able. I have no other experience with making tools, save for scrying.