How to Make a Brewing Cork

Personalized brewing corks are the perfect complement to a gift of original beer or wine.

Beer and wine enthusiasts often attempt to brew their own label from favorite ingredients to experiment with new flavors. Due to the rapid evaporation nature of alcohol, it is essential to use a tight-fitting brewing cork during the process. Although corks are available in a variety of sizes and are inexpensive to purchase, home brewers may enjoy making their own corks to accompany their original label. Artisans should thoroughly research materials available and determine the best stopper for their brew. Does this Spark an idea?

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Agglomerated cork or synthetic cork
Measuring tape
Pencil
Utility knife
Brand, optional

Instructions

- 1
  
  Purchase bulk agglomerated cork or synthetic cork from a craft store. Synthetic cork is less expensive and unaffected by humidity, while conventional cork is easier to seal without the aid of a floor corker.
- 2
  
  Measure the diameter of the container where you plan to store your brew and mark the dimensions on your cork.
- 3
  
  Taper the cork to the necessary dimensions by slowly carving through the cork with a utility knife. The cork should extend at least one inch into the neck of the container, and there should be a clear indention or gradual slope as you approach the cork top to prevent it from sliding down the neck into the beverage.
- 4
  
  Fit the cork in the neck. Use a brand to imprint the top of the cork, if desired. Store containers upright for a minimum of 24 hours after corking before storing the brew on its side.