DIY: Craft Your Own Cork Ring: A Simple Guide

Looking for a fun, eco-friendly DIY project you can wear and show off? Cork rings are the perfect blend of style, sustainability, and simplicity. Whether you’re crafting for yourself or gifting handmade jewelry, cork is lightweight, durable, and makes a bold, natural statement.

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to make a simple cork ring using just a few supplies. Let’s get crafting!

✂️ What You’ll Need:

• 3mm cork cord (about 4–9 inches depending on the size of your finger and whether you're making a single loop or double loop ring)

• Ring charm (included in kit or can be purchased separately)

• Decorative terminal beads (included in kit or can be purchased separately)

• Jewelry glue (E6000 or similar)

• Scissors
  

• Ruler or measuring tape

• Toothpick or tweezers (for positioning)

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Pick the Cork

Pick a piece of cork. You can measure around your finger or use a ring sizer. You'll need about 4–9 inches to allow for looping or layering.

Step 2: Pick your charm and terminal beads

Our kits include the ring charm and 2 terminal beads. Some charms allow you to:

• Loop the cork once for a clean, modern look.

• Loop the cork twice for a wider charm.

Step 3: Loop the Cork

Using tweezers, push one end through the ring charm.

Using tweezers or just your fingers, pull the cork through the charm bead until you have about 1 inch through.

Pull the long end around and push it through the charm bead to complete your first loop.

Your first loop is complete! Stop here and go to Step 4, Measure Your Ring for Fit if your charm is for a single loop. 

For a double loop ring, pull the long end around and push it through the charm bead as well. This will be a tight squeeze. Tweezers or a toothpick may make it easier for you.

The second loop is now completed!

Step 4: Measure Your Ring for Fit

Measure the ring for fit on your largest finger. Adjust the cork cord by pulling it back and forth through the bead until it fits as desired leaving a little extra on each side to allow for swelling or weight loss.

Cut off the excess cork. 

Step 5: Glue on Terminal Beads:

Use strong jewelry glue to secure the terminal beads. Hold it in place for a minute or two, then let it dry for at least 24 hours to ensure a strong bond. 

💡 Tip: Use a toothpick or special tip for precise glue placement.

Step 6: Let It Cure and Flaunt It!

Let your glue dry 24 hours for a strong bond, however for maximum strength and best waterproof, allow to dry for 48-72 hours. Once everything is set and dry, your new cork ring is ready to wear! Snap a photo, show it off, or even gift it to a friend.

Don't be afraid to get it wet. Cork is water resistant and is not harmed by getting wet. It may stretch a little when wet; just let it dry then readjust the fit.

🌿 Why Cork?

Cork comes from the bark of a cork oak tree. Cork is harvested without harming trees, making it one of the most sustainable materials in the world. It’s water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and incredibly lightweight—ideal for jewelry that’s kind to your skin and the planet.

✨ Make It Yours

Experiment with different cork colors, metallic accents, or stack multiple rings together. Every ring you make tells a story—and it’s a conversation starter wherever you go!

Want to skip the glue?
We offer handmade cork rings in a variety of colors and styles—many crafted with care right here in Texas! Shop Now