March 29, 2010

homemade gifts: Coasters


I've seen many renditions of homemade coasters on the interwebz.  Some using paint, napkins, rubber stamps, monograms, etc.  I used scrapbook paper because it comes in soooo many different colors and patterns and can be easily personalized for the gift-receiver.  I made these for Christmas presents for co-workers, and am in the process of making a set for each of my sisters.

Supplies:
* 3 3/4" square tiles (set of 4) from Lowe's (I looked at Menard's and Home Depot also, but liked tiles from Lowe's the absolute best.  They are called Sierra Beige something-or-other, and I like them because they have flat tops and straight sides - easy for Mod Podge-ing)
     ***Look over your tiles in the store and make sure no corners are chipped***
* Mod Podge
* foam brushes
* clear acrylic matte coating (aerosol)
* scrapbook paper cut slightly smaller than tiles (I cut mine 3 5/8" square)

just a SAMPLE of the beautiful scrapbook papers out there

1. Wipe tiles with damp cloth to remove dust/tile dandruff.
2. Work with one tile at a time.  Place tiles on top of scrap paper or newspaper to protect work surface.  Brush a light, even coat of Mod Podge on one tile and immediately place one piece of scrapbook paper on top.  Press firmly from center outward.  Then do the same with the remaining tiles.
3. Brush another light, even coat of Mod Podge on top of the scrapbook paper.  Make sure the entire top is covered, and even extend the Mod Podge over the edges and onto the sides.  (This ensures the paper won't be able to come off the tile).  Repeat with remaining tiles.
4. Let dry 15-20 minutes; Then brush another light, even coat of Mod Podge over entire tile surface, extending over edges.
5. Dry completely (i.e. overnight).
6. In well-ventilated area, spray an even coat of acrylic sealer over tiles.  Let dry (~15 minutes), and spray another light coat.

Voila!  Warning: they're kind of addicting to make! 




***Alternative Idea:  The first time I made these, I made a single test tile, which I now use as a SPOON REST on my stove :)

2 comments:

  1. Cute! Stack a set up and tie some pretty ribbon around them and you've got a great Mother's Day gift.

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  2. That's what I did for my coworkers: stack of four tied with ribbon and raffia. You don't even need wrapping paper!

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