If you’re like me, you’ve probably popped more than a few corks from your favorite Texas Wines or celebratory champagnes. But don’t toss those corks! These little stoppers are surprisingly useful—and with just a few simple supplies, they can become rustic-chic decorations, handy tools, or even sweet little gifts.
Here are five easy, budget-friendly ways to give your corks a second life.
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1. DIY Cork Coasters
Perfect for: Wine nights, coffee tables, or thoughtful hostess gifts
Collect about 8 to 10 corks, cut them in half lengthwise with a sharp knife, and glue them into a square or circular shape on a piece of cork board or felt. Add a ribbon or twine around the edge for a finished look. These coasters are not only functional—they’re conversation starters.
Cost: Practically free if you have a glue gun or super glue on hand.
2. Cork Planter Magnets
Perfect for: Kitchen decor or wine-lover gifts
Hollow out the center of a cork with a small knife or drill bit, stuff in a bit of soil or moss, and pop in a tiny succulent or air plant. Glue a magnet to the back, and stick it on your fridge. Instant charm!
Texas Touch: Use corks from your favorite Hill Country wineries to make each one a mini memory.
Cost: About $0.50–$1 per magnet if you buy in bulk.
3. Cork Keychains
Perfect for: Poolside keys, lake trips, or wine-themed party favors
Wine corks float—so they make ideal keychains for boating or river days. Just screw in a small eye hook and attach a key ring or carabiner. You can even write the winery name and date with a Sharpie for a personal touch.
Bonus: They’re easy to spot and hard to lose in the water.
Cost: Less than $1 per cork keychain.
4. Cork Bulletin Board
Perfect for: Home offices, kitchens, or craft rooms
This one’s a classic. Glue corks (whole or sliced in half) into a frame to make a DIY cork board for pinning recipes, notes, or wine tasting invites. Arrange them in rows, chevrons, or a herringbone pattern for some visual flair.
Tip: For best results, use a hot glue gun and a wooden backing.
Cost: Depends on the frame—reuse an old one for a nearly free project.
5. Wreath of Corky Joy
Perfect for: Wine lovers’ front doors or festive party décor
Make a seasonal or year-round wreath by hot gluing wine corks onto a foam or wire wreath base. Add faux grapes, greenery, or a little “Welcome” sign to personalize it. Hang it up and let guests know they’ve entered wine country—Texas style.
Great for: Wine rooms, tasting parties, or holiday gifts.
Cost: $5–$10 depending on extras like ribbon or decorations.
Final Sip 🍇
Whether you’re keeping it rustic, modern, or just plain practical, there are tons of ways to turn leftover corks into treasures. They’re a little piece of every bottle, every toast, and every great memory. So start saving those corks—especially from your favorite Texas Wine bottles—and turn them into something fun and functional.
Because let’s be honest—crafting is more fun with a glass in hand anyway. Cheers, y’all!
About the Author
A native of Texas, Ken “Texan” Pierce is a renowned alcohol aficionado with decades of experience in the Texas wine, whiskey, and beer industry. With a vast number of alcohol production resources right in his back yard in the Texas Hill Country, Ken has made it his mission to promote and advance the Texas winemaking, distilling, and brewing industry across the country. Ken holds certifications from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) for wine and is a Certified Texas Wine Ambassador. His ability to identify tasting notes and pairings makes him a respected authority within alcohol enthusiast circles. When he’s not reviewing the latest craft spirits, you can find Ken playing his guitar, trying to sing, and sipping on a Texas libation.