I had a long day. Instead of going to bed early, to relax, I decided to do a little crafting while drinking an Octoberfest.
I never thought that much about coasters or even used them much until I started making them myself. They are easy to make and can be personalized in so many ways. It started last Christmas, 2011, when I wanted to try making them for a couple family members as gifts (for my Aunt and Gramma). I ventured to Home Depot and bought slate tiles, and then used my mom’s Mod Podge and my old scrapbook paper. They weren’t great because the slate was uneven and the paper was peeling up. Looking back, I feel bad giving those crappy things as gifts to my family members since I am such a pro now.
Ceramic tiles at Home Depot cost you 13 cents each. That is dirt cheap. When I went to HD today to buy 16 tiles, it cost me less than $3.00, score! They are smooth and white; perfect for Mod Podging on.
For the project you will need:
- Ceramic tiles
- Mod Podge (MP) and brush
- Scrapbook paper or other paper
- Cork or felt circles for the bottom (felt at Target!)
- Acrylic Spray
- Optional: letter stickers
First, cut your paper squares SMALLER than the tile. I would leave about a half inch on each edge which will give you the white border.
Then, paint Mod Podge onto the tile and the back of the paper, put paper on tile and smooth with fingers.
Do this to all four coasters and then apply two coats of MP. If there are bubbles, carefully smooth out with finger and make sure the coats of MP look even.
Wait a little bit to dry; I am impatient and want them DONE so I usually only wait 30-60 mins. (If you want to add letter stickers, now would be the time to do it. These can be found many places and can be used to write creative phrases, dates and to personalize for your recipient.
Then, outside, spray a light coat of acrylic spray over all tiles. I give it a couple coats and then wait overnight. In the morning, I usually had a couple more so that they are super shiny.
After completely dry, cut your cork (which should be sticky on back…peel off) in squares smaller than the coaster so no edges will stick out. If you use small felt pads, put them on each corner. Make sure to mark the bottom of side with your initials or some type of signature/date etc.
Wrap with a bow and give as gift!
PS: I have seen online that people actually transport pictures on to coasters, but I have not yet done so. Will keep you updated.
KS
Korina Linda 