Materials:
sweet gum pod/ball with stem, dried (without seeds)
toothpicks
spray paint in silver or gold
glue

Directions:
Collect the sweet gum balls out of the yard.
Break toothpicks into different lengths.
Glue toothpicks in the holes (pointed end out) of the sweet gum balls.
Spray paint silver or gold. Any color will do.
Place on your tree or in an arrangement.