I’ve been eager to start a new DIY project and finally managed to get some good styling shots.
The weather has been cloudy lately, so earlier photos weren’t as sharp as I’d hoped. Now that the light cooperated, I’m ready to share this project.
This tutorial serves two purposes: it’s a modular cork bulletin board for the wall and a set of coasters. It may seem like an odd combination at first, but it makes a lot of sense for a tidy, functional workspace.
If you dislike clutter as much as I do, you know how difficult it is to focus when a desk is crowded. I wanted a bulletin board for notes and inspiration, but I also wanted something practical for everyday use in an office—like coasters.
We recently invested in a Case Study desk and have been careful to protect it with coasters. That gave me the idea: why not create a wall organizer that can double as coasters when needed?
The whole project costs under $4.00.
Double Duty DIY: Wall Organizers that Double as Coasters
What you need:
Materials
- Cork – I bought a six-pack of cork coasters from a craft store for under $2. You can also use a roll of cork and cut it to size if you prefer.
- Ribbon or fabric – Pick small- to medium-width ribbon or fabric strips.
- Scissors.
- Heavy-duty glue – I prefer a quick-set super glue for fast, secure adhesion.
- Velcro – small pieces for mounting.
How-to Instructions
1. Wrap ribbon vertically around a cork square until you achieve the look you want. Pull the ribbon tight and trim the excess. Glue the ribbon ends to the back of the cork so they remain secure.
2. Repeat the process, this time wrapping ribbon horizontally across the same cork square. Again, trim and glue the ends to the back. The intersecting ribbons create a woven grid that will hold notes or photos without pins.
3. Cut small, even pieces of Velcro and attach one side to the back of each cork square. Keeping the Velcro pieces neat and consistent helps the display look tidy when pieces are removed and reattached.
4. Arrange and stick the cork squares on the wall in whatever pattern you like. Slide notes, photos, and other lightweight items into the ribbon grid. Larger items that won’t fit can be pinned or tucked behind the ribbons.
When you need a coaster, pull a cork square down, use it, then stick it back on the wall in a new position if you like—rearranging the modular display is part of the fun. The result is an organized, flexible system that keeps your desk clear while offering easy access to coasters.
Here’s what it looks like:
Note: If you plan to use these primarily as coasters or expect heavy use, apply a sealant or top coat over the finished cork squares to protect the fabric and extend their lifespan.
More DIY ideas
- Try a canvas wall organizer with multiple pockets for extra storage and organization.
- Make an album-cover wall organizer for a creative, personalized display.
- Use cork sheets to build a combined desk organizer and small planter for a functional desktop solution.
- Create themed cork boards—like a cloud-shaped cork board for back-to-school decor.
Other sites that have mentioned this project include Decor 8, Apartment Therapy, CraftStylish, Craft: zine, Anne Kaz, One Happy Corner, Finding Myself, One Pretty Thing, Threadbanger, and Ruby Rooms.