What is a witch ball?

 A witch ball is a beautiful, hand-blown hollow sphere of glass, traditionally used as a protective charm.

These colorful orbs originated in England (with roots tracing back to the 17th–18th centuries) and were commonly hung in cottage windows to ward off evil spirits, witches, curses, the evil eye, ill fortune, and negative energy.

How They Were Believed to Work

According to folklore, the witch ball’s shimmering beauty and reflective qualities would:

•  Attract malevolent spirits or witches (who couldn’t resist the mesmerizing colors and light play)

•  Trap them inside — either by entrancing them with their own reflection, dazzling them with refracted light, or ensnaring their energy in the internal strands/swirls of glass

Many early examples had a silvery, mirror-like interior (made with mercury or similar coatings), giving them a magical, almost hypnotic appearance

Modern Witch Balls

Today, witch balls are still popular as both decorative items and protective talismans. You’ll find them in gardens, windows, or as hanging ornaments — often in vibrant colors that catch the light beautifully:

They’re especially striking when sunlight hits them, creating dancing rainbows around the room — a lovely blend of ancient superstition and modern home decor!

So in short: a witch ball is part folk-magic protective ward, part gorgeous glass art — with centuries of charm and mystery packed into a single shimmering sphere

How to make a witch ball

Making your own witch ball is a fun, magical, and accessible craft project! Today, the most popular and beginner-friendly way to create one is using a clear glass (or shatterproof plastic) ornament as the base — this gives you that classic hollow sphere look while being much easier and safer than traditional hand-blown glassmaking.

These modern DIY versions are filled with intention-setting ingredients like herbs, crystals, and charms, then hung in a window to catch light, repel negativity, and bring protection, prosperity, love, or whatever energy you desire

Materials You’ll Need

•  1 clear glass or plastic DIY ornament (3–4 inches is a great size; available at craft stores or online, especially around holidays)

•  Small funnel (or rolled paper) for filling

•  Dried herbs, flowers, spices (e.g., rosemary for protection, lavender for peace, cinnamon for prosperity, bay leaves, rose petals)

•  Small crystals or stones (e.g., black tourmaline or obsidian for protection, rose quartz for love)

•  Optional extras: glitter, salt, tiny charms, feathers, pinecones, or protective symbols

•  Ribbon, twine, or cord for hanging

•  Hot glue gun (optional, for extra sealing)

•  Incense, sage, or other cleansing tool (for energy prep)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1.  Set Your Intention
Decide the purpose of your witch ball (e.g., home protection, attracting abundance, self-love). Hold the empty ornament and visualize or speak your intention into it.

2.  Cleanse Everything
Use smoke from sage, incense, or sound (like a bell) to purify the ornament and all your ingredients. This clears any old energy.

3.  Prepare the Ornament
Gently remove the metal hanger/cap from the top (it usually pops off with a little pressure). Set it aside.

4.  Fill with Magic
Using the funnel, add your ingredients layer by layer. Start with a base (like salt or herbs), then add crystals, spices, flowers, etc.

•  Fill it halfway to three-quarters full so items can move and catch the light beautifully.

•  Speak or think your intention with each addition.

5.  Seal & Finish
Replace the metal hanger/cap (snap it back in place).
Add a drop of hot glue around the edge if you want extra security.
Tie a pretty ribbon or twine around the top for hanging, and attach any extra charms.

6.  Activate & Hang
Hold the finished ball, charge it with your intention one last time (moonlight, sunlight, or visualization works great).
Hang it in a sunny window where it can sparkle and “trap” negative energy while spreading positive vibes!

Making a witch ball is both a craft and a spell — personalize it completely to your needs. It’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of folk magic into your London home! If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even make themed ones for different seasons or intentions. Happy crafting!