Abstract: In making useful and decorative articles such as Christmas tree ornaments, ash trays, candle holders, napkin holders, artificial flowers, toys and the like from aluminum cans, first the top or bottom portion of the can is cut off, then a predetermined number of holes of predetermined size and spacing are punched about the outer wall of the can, then the outer wall of the can is cut between the holes in order to form a predetermined number of strips of uniform width, the cut strips are bent to an arcuate shape and fastened together and/or, depending on the article being made, fastened to either the end wall or side wall of the can. In making certain articles, the top or bottom portion of a second can is cut off, then the outer wall of the can is marked and cut into strips and the strips are fastened together. The first can may be fastened to the second can.