Some were also produced in the U.S., often by German immigrants. Much heavier than their modern counterparts, these Kugels were made in a variety of forms, including spheres, eggs, teardrops, grape clusters, apples, and other fruit forms. In the 1880s these decorations often sold for five or ten cents. Nowadays it's probably least expensive to purchase your hand-blown ornaments as spheres in boxes of a half dozen or so. In a few years you'll be pleased with the result as your tree is gradually populated by more and more of these glittering glass baubles.
Some folks buy one each year for each of their children.
By the time they're old enough to be out on their own, the kids will have quite a healthy start on their own holiday decorating, as well as beautiful reminders of childhood memories. These were commonly used to adorn the family tree. Such beaded garlands have long been available commercially in a rainbow of colors. They continue to lend a warm colorful touch, as they did more than a century ago, when draped generously from bough to bough on the tree. Another popular tree decoration combined the availability of a tasty snack with quality family time, and the same can be true today.