Tips and tricks to reusing wine corks

I was strolling through a local Salvation Army resale shop yesterday when I happened to see a huge bag filled with wine corks. Now, my husband and I do not consume much wine, but we will share some with RVing friends occasionally. Seeing the extensive collection of wine corks got me thinking: Are there tips and tricks to reuse them? The answer surprised me!

Reuse

If you are a wine enthusiast, you might find yourself with a growing collection of wine corks. Instead of tossing them out, why not put them to good use? Wine corks are surprisingly versatile and can be transformed into all sorts of creative and functional items. Here’s a rundown of some fun and practical ways to reuse those wine corks.

Coasters

Wine corks make excellent coasters! Use hot glue to fasten several corks together or slice them into thin circles, glue them together, and voilà—you have a sturdy, heat-resistant coaster. Your RV countertops will thank you!

Corkboards

Create your own custom corkboard by gluing wine corks onto a flat surface like a picture frame or an old tray. This not only gives you a unique spot to pin notes and photos, but also adds a personal touch to your workspace or kitchen. This application will also work to hold earrings.

Trivets

Similar to coasters, wine corks can be used to make trivets to protect your RV countertops from hot pots and pans. Slice the corks in half lengthwise or use them whole and arrange them in a pattern that you like. These trivets are both practical and eco-friendly.

Keychains

Turn a wine cork into a helpful keychain! Simply screw an eye hook into the top of the cork, add a keyring, and you’re set. You can even personalize it with paint, stamps, or by burning a design into the cork for a truly unique accessory. No more searching the bottom of the campground swimming pond for dropped keys!

Wreaths

Wine cork wreaths are a festive way to decorate your RV. Glue corks onto a foam or wire wreath form and add embellishments like ribbons, berries, or small ornaments. These wreaths are perfect for the holidays or as a year-round decor piece.

Chip bag clip

Use a sharp knife to make a slit in the long side of a cork. Fold down the top of the chip bag and then slide the folded edge into the slit. The cork will keep your chips fresh until your next picnic.

Firestarter

If you enjoy campfires, wine corks can be turned into fire starters. Soak the corks in rubbing alcohol for a few days, then store them in a jar. When you’re ready to start a fire, just light one of the corks, and it will burn long enough to get your campfire going.

Bird feeders

Create a small bird feeder by stringing together several corks. Add some birdseed, hang it outside your RV, and watch as your feathered friends enjoy a snack. This is a wonderful way to recycle corks while giving back to nature.

Protect RV floors

Mark a wine cork into even increments (1/4 inch works well). Use a sharp knife to slice the cork into circles, following your measurements. Hot glue one circle to the bottom of each RV dining chair leg to protect the floor from skid marks.

Prevent the slam!

In the same way as detailed above, cut thin circles from a wine cork. Then use hot glue to affix the circles as RV cabinet door bumpers. The cork will quiet the cabinet closing.

Never drop a stitch

When it’s time to stop knitting, push a wine cork onto your knitting needles and keep all of your hard work in place. This tip works for keeping track of your sewing needles, too!

Cork magnets

Use hot glue to fasten a magnet to the side of a wine cork. Use the magnet to hold photos or notes to your RV refrigerator.

Possibilities

The possibilities for reusing wine corks are nearly endless. Whether you’re looking for a new DIY project, a way to add some charm to your RV, or a unique gift idea, wine corks can be the perfect solution. So, next time you pop open a bottle of wine, don’t toss that cork—give it a second life instead!

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