I've joked for a few years about starting a blog called "The Walmart Witch." I've even thought about some cool slogans, like "Divine on a Dime!" and "Casting Spells and Clipping Coupons!" Okay, so, I guess "cool" is relative, but it amused me!
In all seriousness, though, there's nothing wrong with being a dollar-store witch. If you think of your materials as an extension of yourself in your craft, then sure, you'll always want the best equipment you can afford. But, I choose to think of my equipment as a physical medium that begins in the mundane, physical world and helps me to direct my intent to the higher, magickal planes.
My two rules are:
1. Keep it natural! Feel the good vibes of the Elements in your tools and equipment. You can make your own wands with whittled twigs and sticks, and find a perfectly good water bowl in a seashell or a burning bowl in a mason jar, even! (though, be sure you don't let a glass jar get
too hot!)
2. Intent is the most important thing! Especially when you're starting out, it's important to remember that it all comes down to putting your intent out there. Start out slow, keep it simple, and don't sweat that you don't have the access or funds to put into your craft right now. Give it time, and your patience will be rewarded!
Also, I've white candles are your all-purpose blank slate! At a true dollar store where everything's actually a dollar, you can find tapers, votives, and even tealights, as well as candlestick holders. If you want an elemental candle, imbue it with elemental energy and carve an appropriate symbol into it, or imbue the elemental energy into an appropriately colored string (embroidery floss can usually be found for pretty cheap!) or try some ribbon to tie around the candle, letting its energy saturate into the candle.
I think my first altar as a teen consisted of a white votive candle surrounded with a feather, a shotglass of water I'd liberated from my parents, a really cool stone that was smooth and round (I think I found it at the end of my street, if I remember correctly!), and a book of matches. I saw the value in each of these things, the correspondences, and I appreciated them for their "re-appropriated" uses.
As for not having a space to practice in, I wish I had some ideas. All I can really tell you is that, even though it's hard now, don't be discouraged! The world is your altar, your soul is your candle, and your words are your power! Have you ever considered meditating and creating an altar all your own in your mind's eye, an inner temple? Or perhaps manifesting the tools of your trade on the Astral Plane? Energy and intent is really all you need.
Anyway, I know I get long-winded, but trust me, where you're at now? I've been there, and I know how it is. I hope at least some of this might have helped! Best wishes and many blessings as you traverse the path, my friend!