Gauge is not terribly important, so long as fabric is firm and does not gape when stuffed. I’d strongly recommend machine washable yarn and toy stuffing, if ball is intended for a baby… Mine threw up (or worse) over everything, when they were tiny!! Jingle bells are optional but great fun - a couple of medium sized bells are enough for a subdued tinkling noise… Add more if you really want to annoy baby’s parents. :p