How to Make a Wine Cork Frame

A collection of old wine corks provides a handy crafting material.

Dress up a plain picture frame with wine corks. Any standard wood frame works well, although the frame should be at least 1 inch wide so the corks have enough of a surface to adhere to securely. Use plain, unused corks from a craft store or choose from a collection of used wine corks. Some corks feature a decorative design or the winery name, which adds further embellishment to the finished frame. Rinse off used corks and allow them to dry completely before you begin the project.

Things You'll Need

• Wood picture frame
• Sandpaper
• Wine corks
• Coping saw or serrated knife
• Hot glue gun

Instructions

1. Remove the glass and backing from the frame so it isn't damaged during construction.

2. Sand the surface of the picture frame lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper. The glue adheres better to a slightly roughened surface.

3. Cut the wine corks in half lengthwise using a coping saw or serrated knife.

4. Arrange the corks, flat side down, on the picture frame. Move them around until you find the design you prefer. The wood frame shouldn't be visible beneath the corks.

5. Glue the wine corks in place one at a time. Run a bead of hot glue down the cut side of the cork, then press it in place on the frame.

6. Replace the glass, photograph and backing in the frame after the glue has dried. It takes approximately 10 minutes for hot glue to set completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint the wine corks before or after you attach them to the frame, if desired. Decorate the frame additionally by gluing or pinning decorative embellishments to the corks.

References

• Viridis: Cork: Reuse and Recycling