Wine corks are one of those little things you feel inclined to tuck away in a drawer, one by one, until you’ve found yourself with quite a collection. The question then becomes, “What do I do with all my wine corks?” Turns out, a rustic assortment of wine corns can quickly turn into a fun creative project.
Whether you’ve been saving corks for years or are just starting to gather them, consider any of these creative ways to transform these little keepsakes into something both beautiful and useful.
Placecard Holders
Whether planning a rustic wedding or Thanksgiving dinner, placecard holders add the perfect custom touch. Chelsea Barton, crafter and author of Cricut Weddings, a DIY Book, says wine corks are perfect for this.
“Simply cut a shallow slit along the length of a cork to hold a small simple flat place card,” she says. “For a little shimmery glam, dress them up with a little metallic paint to complement any wedding color palette.”
Cork Drawer Pulls
Corks with a rounded bulb at the end lend themselves perfectly as a creative drawer pull. This craft works best for low-traffic items, like a small cabinet, bar cart, or bedside table. Simply replace the existing knob with a cork, securing it from the inside with a screw for a snug fit. A protective coating can help it last longer, as well.
DIY Stamper
Turn leftover wine corks into adorable DIY stamps for decorating cards, gift tags, wrapping paper, and more. Using a craft knife, carve a small design into the flat end of a cork. the simpler the better; think a heart, circle, star, or flower. Then dip the raised design into ink or paint, then press it onto paper to transfer your creation.
Garden Markers
Wine corks have an earthy sort of feel, and they can withstand the elements. Interior designer Kaitlyn Loos says that’s why they’re perfect for garden labels. “I take a bamboo skewer to the center and write what I planted,” she says. “I've tried a lot of other ways to mark the plants in my garden, but this one is my favorite!” Use a waterproof marker, like a Sharpie.
Wobbly Furniture Fix
If you’ve got a wobbly piece of furniture that keeps tilting to one side, a little slice of cork comes in very handy. Cut the cork to size, then slide it underneath the furniture leg. The cork also provides a soft cushion between the floor and the furniture to prevent damaged floors.
Kitchen Trivet
The beauty of wine corks is that you can create a million different shapes from them. From a Christmas tree for the holiday table to a simple heart, the possibilities are endless. Arrange the corks and then secure them together with a heat-resistant adhesive. The cork protects counters and tables from hot dishes.
Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle journalist who routinely contributes to Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Women’s Health, and House Beautiful, among others. She covers home and garden, wellness, and travel, focusing on thoughtful storytelling and detailed reporting. When not writing, you can catch her perusing thrift stores, singing, hitting the gym, and petting any cat or dog that'll allow it.
