How to Make a DIY Wine Cork Garland

When you entertain frequently, you get a lot of corks from dearly departed bottles. Given this abundance, we are constantly trying to find creative ways to incorporate them into our décor.

This year, we took baker’s twine, corks and a drill to create the perfect accent to our holiday mantel. To light up our creation we used our favorite battery operated lights from restoration hardware (purchase them here).

Why a Cork Garland is the Perfect Holiday Decoration 

You love wine, I love wine, and we all love wine cork crafts! Cork garlands add a rustic, eco-friendly charm to your holiday décor. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday dinner or preparing for a larger gathering, cork garlands blend seamlessly with traditional and modern holiday themes. They’re versatile, affordable, and can be easily customized to suit any style or color scheme. Using corks from wine bottles also adds a personal touch, making it a meaningful addition to your décor. 

Supplies Needed:

1. Corks
2. Bakers Twine
3. A Drill
4. Paperclip

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Your DIY Cork Garland 

Making your own cork garland is easy and fun! Here’s a simple breakdown of the process: 

1. Gather Your Materials: You’ll need corks, baker’s twine, a drill, and a paperclip to get started. 
2. Drill Holes in the Corks: Carefully drill holes into each cork, making sure not to crack them. 
3. String the Corks: Use baker’s twine to thread through the drilled holes, creating the garland to your desired length. 
4. Add Lights: For an extra touch, incorporate battery-operated fairy lights (we love the ones from Restoration Hardware). 
5. Display Your Garland: Hang it over your mantel, around a wreath, or along a staircase for a festive look! 

Check out the images below to see the step-by-step process and get inspiration for your own cork garland! 

How to Customize Your Cork Garland 

While the basic cork garland is already charming, there are plenty of ways to make it your own and really amp up the holiday vibes: 

• Add Seasonal Decorations: Think about adding little touches that scream “festive.” Small holiday ornaments, sprigs of faux greenery, or mini pinecones can really give your garland that cozy winter wonderland feel. If you’re feeling crafty, throw in some tiny bells or even dried orange slices for a rustic charm. 

• Mix Up the Twine: While classic baker’s twine is great, don’t be afraid to get creative with it! A pop of color can do wonders—whether you go for deep red velvet ribbon for a luxe touch or natural jute twine for that rustic, vineyard-inspired vibe. It’s all about what fits your personal style. 

• Create a Themed Garland: Want to take it up a notch? You can decorate your corks with metallic paint, a little glitter, or even some elegant gold or silver accents. It’s the perfect way to add a sophisticated feel if you’re hosting a more formal holiday gathering. 

• Personalize It: Here’s a fun idea: use your corks to tell a story. Whether you paint family names, holiday greetings, or initials on the corks, it’s an easy way to make your garland one-of-a-kind. It could even make a great keepsake for your guests or a lovely DIY gift. 

• Bring in Nature: Freshen things up with some greenery! Add sprigs of holly, eucalyptus, or rosemary for a natural, fresh scent that’ll make your home feel extra festive. It pairs beautifully with the wine corks and will have your guests asking, “Where’s that smell coming from?” 

With just a few small tweaks, your cork garland will be the perfect reflection of your style—and add that extra little bit of sparkle to your holiday décor! 

Next: Check our our four-course holiday menu.