Altar Cloth Uses in Wicca & Rituals-An altar cloth is used by magicians, wiccans, witches, and other practitioners of the spiritual path for one or more of several reasons but none more so then to protect their altars from damage. Some individuals may choose altar cloths that are of use in the application of magic (or magick) for their color or symbolism in relation to the ritual work they are performing, or for the energy, god or goddess for which the altar is dedicated.