Depending on the altar's size, shape, and what you're going to use it for decides on how you should set it up. If it is a permanent altar, you should always have a symbol of the Goddess and God at the center when it is not being used. If your altar has an alternate use - such as a coffee table, you should always put everything away in a safe and sacred place for you. Nothing that is not being used for ritual, or that you do not find sacred, should ever be placed on the altar.
If working with a circular surface, it is better to set up your altar according to the four corners and their corresponding elements. Each tool, as well as the images or symbols to be used for the God and Goddess should be placed accordingly.
If your altar is rectangular or square, the easiest method is by placing the Goddess to the left, the God to the right, and aligning the tools in a way where the symbolism matches.
You may use an altar cloth if you so desire. However, always remember that the altar is what YOU make it. These are just examples and you can make small changes that best suit you.
