You will need the following items:
Clear Glass balls – the colorless kind. I tried with plastic, but the paint would not stick very well. I have used teardrops and bells, but the balls work best.
Silver paint – I found that silver aluminum type works best – it is more reflective
Red yarn cut in short lengths – enough to fill the ball Red ribbon for hanging
Decorations to hide the hang-down thing on top of the ball (I like mistletoe and holly)
First pour the silvery paint into the ball and swirl it around to cover. Since it is supposed to be reflective, the silver aluminum paint they use for metal outdoor stuff is the best, but in a pinch, silver acrylic will do. I have tried silver spray paint (easy) and enamel paint from airplane craft kits as well! Stand the ball on it’s top and let dry and drain for 24 hours. Do not skim here. If it is not fully dry, the paint will fall away from the ball.
When it is dry, stuff it full of the cut lengths of red thread or ribbon. You could try bows if it`s for Yule. Make sure it is really full. I usually put some salt and sage into it, along with some of my Yule incense, and pine or Christmas tree needles, also some Christmas spices like cinnamon etc just because it feels right and smells wonderful; but the directions did not say to do this. (I found the idea for these long ago at a Wicca site)
When the ball is stuffed full, place the metal hanger thing back on top. (I usually glue it to make sure it does not fall off.) If you do not use salt and incense, you may not have to glue it. A Spot of clear super glue will secure them forever but be careful!
Cut a length of red ribbon and attach it for a loop for a hanger. Glue on some mistletoe and holly and sprinkle some with glitter in gold and silver to make it look pretty. You can also use those pre-made flowers, tinsel, tiny pine cones or anything else you would like. When it is done, I take it into my circle and consecrate it with fire, air, water and earth. I infuse it with the energy of protection, peace and harmony for our family at Yule (Christmas.)
When I am done, I hang it on my Yule (Christmas) tree. I also have them hanging in every room and in all my windows. You can color-coordinate the decorations to suit the room.
I think these would be a good protection item for young witches with disapproving parents and those who are not out of the “Broom closet,” as it were; or who do not wish to draw attention to their pagan or Wiccan leanings!