Craft Wine Corks
Wine corks look pretty displayed in decorative bowls and containers, but they're also perfect for arts and crafts. From magnets to cork boards, so many great projects can be made from natural corks that crafters can't get enough of them. These wine stoppers are lightweight, heat and water resistant, and easy to work with.
What types of things can you make out of wine corks?
You can make a wide variety of items out of wine corks. They can be used to make items for your kitchen like a kitchen backsplash, drawer knobs, coasters, serving trays, refrigerator magnets, trivets, and pot holders. You can make holiday decorations like wreaths and garlands. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you can make garden plant markers or fishing bobbers out of them. Wine corks can also be used to make bulletin boards, place cards, bath mats, picture frames, mini stamps, key chains, and all kinds of crafts.
How do you make a wine cork board?
- Select a deep frame. If it is very large, you'll want to reinforce the back with plywood to support the weight of the finished project.
- Arrange your wine corks in the desired pattern before you start gluing, cutting them to fit. Use small pieces of natural cork to fill in gaps in the corners.
- Use a hot glue gun to adhere the wine corks to the board, one at a time, by applying a line of glue to the back of each.
- Hang it on your wall and enjoy.
How do you soften wine corks?
When working with corks, it's best to soften them before cutting them so they won't break or crumble. Soak them in a bowl of water overnight. This makes them soft and pliable so you can cut them easily.
Why is cork used as a stopper in wine bottles?
Wine corks keep the bottle sealed but let small amounts of air flow in and out of the bottle. The oxygen helps develop and deepen the flavors and aroma of the wine.
Where does cork come from?
Cork comes from the outer layer of bark that grows on cork oak trees in the Mediterranean. Most of the world's cork supply comes from Portugal, but it's also produced in Italy, Spain, Algeria, and France. Cork oak trees aren't harmed when the bark is harvested, and they can be harvested about every 10 years until the tree is 200 years old. The cork grows back smoother each time. It is an environmentally sound natural resource.
What is so special about cork?
Cork is a natural material with unique properties. It is resistant to water, heat, rot, termites, bacteria, and fire, and it floats in water.