Capture the Flag Colors?

I'm trying to make a map that uses the capture the flag items. The problem is, I want to give them individual colors. I know they are capable of changing colors if their models are used with units. But as items they have no team color option and always show up gray. If anyone can explain how to change their colors and still have them as items I'd greatly apreciate it. (Tinting or changing models of the item itself doesn't work, as it reverts to its original form the moment a unit picks it up). I posted this topic here because I don't know if this is a skin issue or not.