Hand-blown glass spheres of friendship and décor — and how they differ from Witch Balls.
Since 2000, Kugelhouse has been the original online retailer of both Kugels and Witch Balls — offering artisan-made pieces that combine craft, color and meaning.
Origins & Meaning
The term “kugel” comes from the German word for “ball.” In central Europe, hand-blown glass kugels were originally ornamented as holiday décor. Over time, they became symbolic tokens of friendship, shared color, and delight. At Kugelhouse, the sentiment remains: each Kugel is made to be given, hung, or displayed — to reflect light and reflect connection.
Unlike the protective lore of Witch Balls, Kugels emphasize gift-giving, color harmony, and the joy of display. They shimmer in sunlight or shade, bringing playful texture and glass artistry into everyday spaces.
What Sets a Kugel Apart?
Material & Craft: Each Kugel is mouth-blown, individually crafted, and sealed air-tight. Many are made in our 4-inch popular size category, with transparent and opaque glass elements swirling in bright layers. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Design Language: Whereas some decorative spheres are molded or plastic, Kugels are full-glass, hand-blown, with textures, ridges or diamond optic finishes that catch the eye and invite touch. Their color stories are curated to symbolize friendship, warmth and life.
Display Versatility: Hang them in a window, from a ceiling hook, from a tree branch, or float them on water gardens. Their sealed form makes them suitable for decorative outdoor use (with care), and their image as “gift balls” gives them meaning beyond mere décor. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Popular Sizes & Finishes
- 4″ Diameter – our most popular Kugel size, ideal for hanging in windows or clustering in color-themes.
- 6″ Diameter – larger scale, more surface to show iridescence or textured finishes.
- Special finishes – diamond-optic ridges, iridized surfaces, opaque/transparent mixes, and unique color combinations.
Explore the collection: Friendship Balls (4″ Kugels)
How to Display & Gift a Kugel
Hang singly in a sunny window for a shimmering accent. Pair three in a row for a color progression. Cluster several sizes for a playful mobile. Or gift a Kugel with a stand or hook for a meaningful house-warming, wedding or holiday token.
Float sealed Kugels in water features for an extra bit of whimsy—just anchor loosely so they don’t drift away. And care is simple: wipe with a soft cloth, avoid harsh cleaners or impact, and bring them inside in freezing conditions.
Why Kugelhouse?
As the original online destination for hand-blown Kugels and Witch Balls, Kugelhouse has curated artisan-made designs since 2000. Every piece offered is unique, no two alike, with small-batch production to preserve craftsmanship and integrity.