A favorite Victorian holiday decoration was the Kissing Ball. Constructed of various evergreens and dried flowers found in the garden, these would be hung throughout the house, especially in archways and windows.

This version features three main pieces worked in continuous garland style with no bits and pieces to attach individually (or multiple thread ends to weave in). Longer stitches worked in doubled-stranded cotton thread create lots of lovely dimension and catch the light for great shine.

Ivy and holly leaves are worked with some deliberate natural curl and crinkle to mimic their garden counterparts. Garlands are wound together loosely and accented with bright red crocheted ribbon. They may also be used on a wreath or as streamers.