Table Decor Using Cork

I love being a host. Whether it's dinner or a simple brunch, I like to decorate my table. I think it's important to express a sense of style in everything you do. Being a designer, it comes easy to me, but it doesn't have to be hard for all you non-artists out there.  

Anyone can dress up a table. I always say keep it simple and never go overboard. You don't want anything competing with your food or getting in the way of your guests communicating with each other. Editing is key when it comes to tablescapes. You can present big ideas with small gestures. Here are a few that might come in handy.

Cork is a natural element that brings subtle earth tones to the table and showcases your knack for DIY thinking. You can use wine corks for a number of cool projects and they're easy to get and cost next to nothing. A lot of you may even have some in the house from bottles of wine you've finished. If you haven't already, save all those corks! You never know when you may need them.

For a simple way to add a touch of design to your kitchen or dining room table, fill a glass canister or urn with wine corks and place it in the middle of the table. If you don't have enough corks, you can purchase some on Ebay for a couple of dollars, or ask around and see if your friends have extras.  

Home Goods has a nice selection of glassware so stop by and check it out. The New Leaf Garden Center carries natural pieces that might work too. You might even find inspiration while you're there.

For a cute place setting, you can create name cards for your guests and use a wine cork as the base. I've seen these in stores, but why buy them when you can make them yourself? Cut the cork in half or just cut 1/4 off with a knife, make a slit on the top and insert the card. It's so easy and can be finished in less than 20 minutes. Thats a DIY project that everyone has time for.

Another great idea: You can use wine corks as a centerpiece. Just glue them side by side as long as you want. I recommend crazy glue, but you can use paper tak too. This can be the base for anything. You can place candles on top, small plants or even flowers. If you're having trouble keeping them together, try glueing them to a piece of card stock or balsa wood.

For the holidays, use small pumpkins or apples. Lay leaves down to add color. Get creative with this one. If you want some height, just add a level or two. You can also use this to hold hot plates!

You can purchase glue and paper tak at Rite Aid on North Village Avenue or CVS and Ace on Sunrise Highway.  

Using natural elements in design is a given. It's all around you, so getting inspired by the Earth is just enough guidance you need to get moving. Remember, keep it simple and allow those big ideas to shine through simplicity and grace.  

I hope these ideas come in handy for your next dinner party or get together. I'm sure your guests will love them.  Soon they will be asking you for ideas!