Irresistible DIY Tin Gators for a Year-Round Tree
Swamp. Chomp. Charms.
Who says trees are just for December? My living room tree is a permanent resident, but once the holiday glitz comes down, it transforms into my "Earthly Delights" tree. I just keep dressing it up with whatever makes me smile. Birds, flowers, seashells, starfish—you name it, it finds a branch. Think of it as a revolving gallery of my whims.
The newest residents moving into the branches? Tin Gators! These embossed aluminum alligators bring a lot of snappy-but-classy vibes to the room.
Make your own shiny DIY ornaments using metal embossing. Don’t worry—it sounds way fancier than it is (spoiler: you’ll be using a ballpoint pen). The end result? Handmade ornaments that catch the light beautifully and bring a little swamp queen energy into your space, no matter the season. Ready to add some bite to your decor? Let’s GATOR-done!
Supplies you’ll need:
- Alligator template
- Scissors
- Masking tape
- Craft foam sheet (9” x 12”)
- Ballpoint pen
- Aluminum craft metal foil roll (36-gauge)
- Embossing tools (get creative: a ball stylus, a wooden clay tool, even an orange stick from your nail kit works!)
- Ribbon (about ⅛-inch wide, cut into 5-inch strips—one per ornament)
Safety note: aluminum edges can be sharp. Pop on a pair of gloves while you’re working to save your hands and keep things clean.
Directions
Step 1: Prep your template
Print out your alligator template. Rough cut around each shape, leaving about a half-inch border of plain paper.
Step 2: Cut your craft metal
Snip a piece of aluminum foil from the roll that’s the same size as your craft foam sheet. Place it on top of the foam—this creates your “cushion” for embossing.
Step 3: Tape & trace
Tape the paper templates onto your craft metal. With your trusty ballpoint pen, trace the outlines of the shapes. Don’t press too hard—you want lines, not holes. (Flip it over as you go to check your progress.)
Step 4: Add the fun details
Now comes the satisfying part: embossing! Use whichever tool feels good in your hand and press in lines, dots, and textures to bring your seashells and starfish to life. Pro tip: flip the metal over to press designs in the opposite direction for extra depth.
Step 5: Make a hole for hanging
Each alligator has a semicircle on its back—after you trace it, cut out the metal inside to create a hanging hole.
Step 6: Cut them out
Carefully cut around each ornament shape. (Reminder: those edges can be sharp, so take your time and protect your hands!)
Step 7: Ribbon & hang
Thread your 5-inch ribbon through the hole, tie a knot, and ta-da—you’ve got a shiny, gator ornament ready to croc-and-roll on your tree.
Why a Year-Round Tree?
Honestly, having a tree full of "earthly delights" like these gators, starfish, and birds makes my living room feel like a permanent art installation. It’s a great way to keep the funky vibes of a lit tree without feeling like you forgot to take down your Christmas decorations in July.
Show me your gators! If you make these, tag me so I can see your swampy masterpieces. What else should I add to the tree next?