Sheet Cork Crafts

Cork has a porous and mottled surface that is easily stained, stamped or painted.

Cork is a sustainable material produced from the bark of the Cork Oak Tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. The material can be pressed into sheets that are available in multiple colors, shapes and sizes to be used in various craft projects as a decorating and organizing tool.

Coasters

Cork sheets that are 1/8-inch thick can be cut into circles to create lightweight coasters. Use a compass or trace around the bottom of a can to create 3-1/2-inch circles, then cut out the circle. Repeat the procedure on thick decorative paper, such as cardstock or scrapbook paper in a vibrant pattern that coordinates with your living room decor. Glue the circles to the top of the cork, then paint over the paper with an acrylic sealer. Allow the coasters to dry before use.

Bulletin Board

Transform a large inexpensive or vintage frame into a message board with 1/4-inch thick cork sheets. Remove the back of the frame and any glass from the inside of the frame. Measure the cork sheet with the frame back and cut with a sharp knife. The cork can be purchased in a preferred color or you can wrap the cork in fabric and staple the edges to the back. Insert the cork back into the frame and hang it in the kitchen or playroom.

Storage Chest

A treasure chest for your child can be made from 12-inch by 12-inch cork sheets. Cut three 10-inch by 5-inch rectangles out of cardboard for the front, back and bottom of the chest. Cut two 4-1/2-inch by 5-inch pieces for the sides. Draw a line on the front and back pieces, 1 inch from the bottom and 1 1/2 inches from the sides. Cut out the gap to create the legs. Trace the front and back cardboard images onto the sheets of cork, and cut out using a ruler as a guide. Cut out two 5-inch by 6-inch pieces of cork for the for the sides, and cut a 10-1/2-inch by 6-inch piece for the lid. Construct the box with the cardboard and hold together with tape. Glue the cork on top of the cardboard box, except the lid, and hold together with pushpins until it dries. Cut out two 1-inch by 2-1/2-inch strips of cardboard, and attach the lid with paper fasteners. Remove the pins when dried and decorate.

Card Making

Embellished sheets of cork can adorn the front of handmade cards for visual depth. Tear 1/4-inch thick sheets into rough, rustic shapes. Use dark colored paint, stain or ink to create a burned look on the edges. Stamp the cork with a desired message or image, and attach to the front of a card with glue. Add handmade ribbons or beading to the front for an added touch.

References

• Wentworth Institute of Technology: Cork
• "The Crafts and Culture of the Medieval Manor"; Joann Jovinelly, and Jason Netelkos; 2006
• "Retro Mania!"; Judi Watanabe, et. al.; 2005
• "Fabulous Fabric: No-Sew Decorating in a Snap!"; Laura Scott, and Vicki Blizzard; 2003