Basic Wiccan Metaphysical Tools and Symbols –
the Censer
The censer is also another powerful Wiccan tool which represents the ultimate blending of symbolic masculine energies – Fire & Air.
When you burn incense, make sure you use a fireproof incense burner (a ‘Censer’). If you cannot find a burner, a special ashtray will suffice provided it is ‘cleansed’ appropriately (See Rituals to Conduct: Consecrate Your Tools).
Fill your incense burner or ‘censer’ with the fresh sand. Remember incense should be burned only in a fireproof container such as metal, glass or ceramic and place it away from flammable objects and out of reach of children and pets. (Never leave candles or incense burning unattended.)
If your ‘Earth’ sand has been placed in a ceramic, stone or metal fireproof container, you can place incense on top of the sand and burn it there.
Some Wiccans use a charcoal tablet to help burn loose herbs more evenly and to help keep them lit longer. You can find charcoal tablets online or at metaphysical stores. Each single-use tablet lasts roughly two hours. Replace incense as needed to keep it lit. Light the charcoal with a match. The flame will extinguish itself and the incense will smoke.
I have a censer recommendation on this page: