Hi Kyane,
I first found out about using the pendulem from Sonia Chaquette's first book and I started with a washer tied to a string. After awhile i bought a 'real' one and I keep it in an old chinese satin-covered heart box. I just sit at my kitchen table, take a few deep breaths and say:
I clear myself of all
unwanted influences
and I become a clear
channel to my higher self.
I ask only the highest forces
of God, my higher self and
my Guides to work through
this pendulum to offer me
guidance.

It is that simple.
Good luck,
Astraltravel