corkboard

Corkboard is a bulletin board surface made from cork, the bark of the cork oak. It is used to pin notes, reminders, photographs, and other lightweight items with push pins or thumbtacks. Corkboards are sold as sheets, tiles, or rolls mounted on a rigid backing such as fiberboard; many variants are covered with fabric or vinyl to improve pin retention and appearance.

Cork’s cellular structure provides elasticity, allowing pins to be inserted and removed repeatedly with minimal damage to the surface. Natural cork boards have a warm, matte look, while fabric-covered versions offer more color options and a smoother pinning surface. They are commonly employed in offices, classrooms, kitchens, workshops, and home spaces.

Environmentally, cork is harvested from the cork oak without cutting the tree; the bark regrows and is typically harvested every 9–12 years. This makes cork a renewable material. Some corkboards are designed as dual-function boards with a magnetic backing or a fabric frame to accommodate magnets and pins.

Care and maintenance: keep corkboard away from excessive moisture and direct sunlight; clean with a dry or slightly damp cloth, not soaking the surface. Over time, the surface may develop pinholes and lose holding power; replacing worn tiles or resurfacing can restore functionality.