Handmade Coasters

I thought today I would share a simple DIY project someone showed me - custom-made coasters. You can get as elaborate as you want with these. Here are the instructions:

1. Go to a supply store such as Lowe's or Home Depot. In the floor tiling section there are boxes of plain white tiles, (they also make black sometimes too). These are the perfect size for coasters, as well as other crafty projects like mosaics. They usually run anywhere from 15-50 cents a piece. I would by 4-6 for each coaster set.

2. Next decide on a design for the coasters. The easiest way is to choose the large pieces of scrapbook paper you can buy in packs or separately at scrapbook supply stores. I would buy at least two to three sheets of the same color. You can get up to four coaster patterns on one sheet, but I would have extra in case of mess-ups.

3. Everyone seems to do their decoupage mixture differently. I have used the already mixed, name-brand, but have found that just a cheap mixture of equal parts glue and water works just as well. I don't even buy the name brand glue. So usually this part of the process only runs about fifty cents.

4. Using the coasters as guides, draw out four shapes onto the back of your scrapbook paper.

5. Carefully cut out the squares and lay aside.

6. Using a strong paintbrush (I
 have one I strictly use for decoupage), paint the white tile. Next, lay the scrapbook paper on top of the tile. Then paint another coat of the glue mixture on top of the scrapbook paper. Allow to dry an hour. Repeat the process.

Note: You will have to smooth down the edges of the paper around the sides of the coaster.

7. The finished product should look somewhat like the example below. The coasters can be as simple or elaborate as you'd like them to be. However, when you finish your design, it is important to take them outside and spray them with a clear craft sealant (can be found in the craft section of Wal-Mart or Michael's).