Stumbling around on sites like Craftgawker and Tumblr provides a slew of great ideas for any artists’ next project. This is how I get my inspiration, and also how I find awesome tutorials that in no possible way I could have ever come up with on my own.
Today’s latest hit comes to you from Tumblr, which should be my computer homepage because I’m on it so frequently. When I was using the “explore” function and looking at crafts, I came across a really cool way to use corks to make coasters. Now, I realize I obviously like using corks, considering I posted not too far back about how to use corks to make stamps, but really, they’re just so versatile! I’ve seen tutorials for cork bathmats or doormats before, so I thought starting smaller scale is the best idea.
For this craft, all your need is some corks, hot glue, and a small wooden picture frame. In all, this project is very easy and quick, and one that will give your kitchen table, coffee table, dorm room, room at home, etc. a little something extra.
First, you’re going to want to dismember your picture frame. Basically, all you want is the wooden frame part (not the glass or kickstand or anything). Once you’ve done that, set your corks up and see how they’re going to fit in your frame. Some may be horizontal while others may be vertical. Then start you’re gluing!
Like a cork bathmat/doormat, you can also do this project completely without a frame- it’s up to you, but I think the wood frame gives the coaster a nice touch.
Another idea you could try is cutting each cork in half with a craft knife so the corks lay flat, but this doesn’t really matter. Really, what this does is take off some of the extra height full corks bring to the coaster.
These cork coaster’s as well as other cork creations are also seen on the Etsy shop The Wooden Bee.
As always, if you have any questions or comments, contact me at fbreisbl@asu.edu.
