I made these spires out of polycarbonate and staples and started putting them into groups (photo 1). The pieces look best when they are overlapping and close together, showing the small natural differences in their form. The problem is that they are a little lightweight. If a strong breeze blows through the room, you are going to have some bowling pin action going on. To solve the problem, instead of using a base, I started experimenting with an interior weights. The weight provides a strong and low center of gravity and also, because it is hung with fishing line, will sway and maintain balance if the piece is hit from the side (photos 2-4).

With weights: a fishing weight on the left and a chandelier crystal on the right.

Close up of the lead fishing weight–functional.

Close up of the chandelier crystal–fancy.