Tile Coasters

Using just a few inexpensive materials, you can create beautiful, homemade gifts for any occasion!  This craft is Pinterest-inspired, with my own variations.  

Materials list

• Plain white 4x4 tiles (from any hardware store, $.16- $.20)
• 1 sheet 12x12 scrapbooking paper (for 4 coasters)
• Acrylic paints (optional)
• Mod-podge or diluted Elmer's Glue
• Paintbrush
• Felt + superglue (for the bottoms)
• Sealer spray (I use a Krylon acrylic varnish)

 1. Choose your tiles carefully - look for ones that have nice edges, no chips, ect.  I found some at Lowe's for 16 cents each.  

2. Cut your paper to fit the tiles perfectly. The tiles are not actually 4x4, they are more like 4.25 x 4.25, so either measure your tiles or trace the tile (on the back of the paper).  Because the tiles are bigger than 4x4 you can only make 4 coasters with one piece of paper.  Because of this, you have a little bit of wiggle room to pick specific parts of the design for your coasters, just ensure that you have pieces big enough for 4 coasters.

 3. Paint the bottom and sides of the tile with acrylic paint.  You can choose colors to match you paper, or you can just leave the edges white or unpainted.  I think it looks cooler with a painted bottom and sides.  Don't worry about getting paint on the top of the tile, the paper will cover it (unless you have a translucent paper).




4. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the top of the tile, ensuring that you have reached all edges.  Carefully place your paper on the tile; smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles. Tip: Start from the center and work your way out to each corner when removing bubbles.

5. Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the entire coaster, on top of the paper and on the edges.  Make sure your layers are smooth and without air bubbles. You can do to bottom too for added resilience once the top is dry.  One or two coats should be sufficient, just make sure the edges are sealed. Allow to dry completely between coats


6. Spray the entire coaster with a few coats of waterproof sealing spray.  This is very important, as Mod Podge is not waterproof.  

7. Attach bits of felt to the corners. This will prevent scratching of surfaces when the coasters are being used. I used heavy-duty E6000 glue, but superglue would work. 







In another variation of my coasters (in which I didn't paint the bottom), I used the foam circles meant for the corners of cupboard doors.  They seem to be working well.

Wrap up your set of coasters with some pretty ribbon and you have a personalized, homemade gift for any occasion you can think of!  Below are some of the sets I have made.