9 Ways to Use Cork Around the House

Sure, cork works well enough on its own for holding a warm dish. But you can build up that basic cork trivet with a layer of stone for more personality and greater functionality. Flat black river pebbles bond to cork easily with craft adhesive, making for an easy project—and a lovely spot to rest your hot wares.

Related:  10 Extras to DIY for Your Kitchen

After seeing this DIY, we’re ready to trade in all our leather-bound books for cork-wrapped ones! Pick up a cork journal premade or purchase some cork contact paper from a craft store to cover an existing book. Then, follow this tutorial from A Beautiful Mess to sponge-paint stenciled designs on the front cover.

Related:  5 Things to Do with… Used Books

Don’t toss those soup cans—they still have a job to do! Wrapped in cork, your used metal receptacles can be attractively upcycled into pencil holders, makeup caddies, or watertight vases. Paper & Stitch has the how-to.

Related:  9 Creative Uses for Old Paint Cans

Accent walls really define a space, and a single wall covered in an unexpected material like cork will be sure to spark conversation the next time you’re giving guests the grand tour. Re-create this look by using wall-mounted cork tiles, which are available in a wide variety of colors and textures. The finished display will bestow a personalized yet naturally peaceful style on any room.

Related:  9 Wood Wall Treatments

Whether stashed in the closet or on the go in a suitcase, this stylish cork case safely sheaths your shades. The key to this Instructables project is to really sand your cork contact paper well. A few minutes of work will produce a texture soft enough to store your glasses without scratching, and create a luxe finish.

Related:  Without a Stitch – 9 No-Sew Projects to Dress Up Any Room

For the same price as butcher block, you can have a countertop made of renewable cork. Nonporous high-density cork slabs are water, stain, and heat resistant—making them wonderfully suitable for the kitchen or bathroom.

Related:  8 Countertops You’d Never Believe Were Handmade

Cork plays a supporting role in this bulletin board, serving as the foundationrather than the finish. Take a cue from this pin board by Pavona Interiors—wrap a board in linen, then finish with fine details like pewter nail heads or a wooden frame.

Related:  Weekend Projects – 5 Bulletin Boards to Organize Your Life

Wobbly tables have finally met their match! Save the day with ingenious levelers cut from a sheet of cork, or even sliced from a wine stopper. Even if your tabletop doesn’t tip, you might consider adding one of these rounds to each of the feet to protect your wood floor from scratches!

Related:  Brighten Your Home with 9 Colorful Furniture DIYs

A soft sheet of cork not only makes a fine surface for maneuvering a computer mouse, it’s also the perfect blank canvas to add personality to your desk. All you need are pair of scissors or an X-Acto knife to cut a custom cork creation—like this one from What Else Michelle—upon which you can paint whatever your heart desires.

Related:  Under $50 – 10 Must-Haves for an Organized Desk