Corkboard Creations: New Uses for that Old Corkboard

Many people use corkboards for pinning up messages to others in the office or home, but did you know there are decorative uses for the corkboard that will grab the attention of your guests, yet cost you little? That's right. Turn your corkboard into a work of art, with little effort or cost, and proudly display it on your wall.

Corkboards, which are mounted in a frame, are common and perfect for this project. All you have to do is create the art work. The frame and hardware for hanging the design, are already attached.

The artwork you create for the corkboard can be simplistic or detailed. That depends upon how far you want to take the art piece. One simple design is made from a disposable plastic drinking cup. They come in a variety of colors and will work well with the corkboard. Cut the cup in half, from one top side, to the opposite top side. Glue the half-glass to the corkboard. Now fill the glass with artificial flowers and you've created a masterpiece! There's lots of ways to enhance the simple art piece. Add a slat of wood across the corkboard, just under the glass of flowers, to represent a table or ledge, on which the cup sits. Let the flowers vine up out of the cup, and over the edge of the framing. Use felt shapes to create other items, which sit with the cup of flowers, on the ledge. If you want you can first cover the cork with decorative fabric.

Flat craft foam pieces work perfectly for creating corkboard designs. Cut waves, dolphin shapes, shell shapes and more, to make your own beach scene. Purchase a mini umbrella, usually used in mixed drinks, and cut it in half. Attach it to the sandy area of the "beach". Cut palm tree shapes from foam and glue them on as well. There's no limit to the creations you can come up with when you use inexpensive craft foam.

Silk flowers and vines can become striking art pieces when attached to the corkboards. Add mini butterflies, pussy willows, caterpillars, bees and other embellishments. You'll find everything from miniatures suns to tiny trees at a craft store. These will help you create your masterpiece.