I took a real starfish " not live" and made a rubber mold of it. I use this technique on various nautical items. Once I had the rubber mold I made a cast in plaster. From the plaster cast, I carved it to fit the glass tea light holder. I made another mold of the altered starfish. after the plaster cast is pulled from that mold I allow it to completely dry. Once the piece is dry I submerge it in a water sealant and allow it to dry. once the cast is dry I glue in the glass holder. I also apply soft carpet to the bottom to help prevent scuffs on surfaces. One tea light candle is included