If you visited a cottage in England during the 18th century you would most likely see at least one ~Witch’s  Ball in a window.  They were hung by the owners to ward off evil spirits, witch’s spells or ill fortune, though the Witch’s Ball actually originated among cultures where witches were considered a blessing and these witches would usually “enchant” the balls to enhance their potency against evils. Later, they were often posted on top of a vase or suspended by a cord and hung from rafters, hung on the mantels,  or on hooks in the garden to give those areas a form of decoration. 

~Today you find them hung around the garden or on decks as decoration but the original ~Witch Ball names has been replaced with “Gazing Ball”.  The Gazing Balls have a slight difference as their is no strands within the ball.  According to folk tales, Witch Balls would entice evil spirits with their bright colours; the strands inside the ball would then capture the spirit and prevent it from escaping.

 If your interested in having them in your home for protection then be sure you find a person who makes the ball with the strands inside.  If your only wanting one for decoration then you will have plenty to choose from as you can find them in garden centers or craft stores.  Below is a wonderful demonstration of what a Witch’s Ball looks like with the strands.

Today you will find variations of the Witch’s Ball.  There is stories that our Christmas ornaments were designed after the Witch’s Ball, today you will see hummingbird feeders made after the original circular design with similar colors but of course it’s designed to hold the mixture for the birds.  It really doesn’t matter how or where you place your decorative items but if your wanting to capture the spiritual connection to the initial intention of the Witch’s Ball then be sure you buy one with the original design that includes the threads inside the ball.