DIY Coasters

For Father's Day I decided to make coasters as part of Matt's gift. I've looked for cute coasters before but couldn't find anything that matched, looked good AND actually worked (I mean who makes glass coasters? Why?!). So I decided to make my own. It was super easy, cheap (I spent $5 because I already have modpodge) and as customizable as it gets!

What you'll need:

Cork coasters- $2.99 at Hobby Lobby

Scrapbook paper (or pictures or maps)- $.50 a sheet at Hobby Lobby 

Modpodge- $5 at Hobby Lobby

Paint brush

Scissors

Pencil

When I was at Hobby Lobby I was so impressed. You can pick any type of scrapbook paper so your options are endless! I decided to go with paper that matched our living room. 

Once you have your supplies, trace the coasters on the back of your scrapbook paper. My coasters came in a pack of six, so I did two coasters per page. 

When tracing, try to stick close to the coaster's edge so you don't have too much overhang. That keeps you from having to trim it later. 

Cut the circles out and then glue them to the coaster with modpodge.

Don't be stingy with your modpodge, especially around the edges. The porous cork will absorb plenty of it and you don't want the edges to lift.

Once I glued them on, I placed a heavy book on top for 30 minutes to make sure the paper was on smoothly. Flip your coasters over and see if you have any paper that hangs over the edge of the coaster. If you do, don't worry. Just take your scissors (or an exacto knife) and trim it up.

Next, you put a layer of modpodge on top of the coaster to seal out the water. This part is really important. You'll want a thin layer so that it dries and doesn't make the coaster streaky, but make sure that you cover the entire top and edges. 

After you let it dry for 24 hours, do a second coat- again make sure you get the edges of the cork. If you don't, the condensation will run off the protected top, onto the sides, soak into the cork and seep into the scrapbook paper. I know, I had to redo a coaster because of it!

Once you apply your second coat and wait 24 hours for it to be fully dry you can enjoy your stylish new coasters!

Matt seemed to enjoy the coasters along with the rest of his gifts, and I have already enjoyed using them. 

I've seen some people use sharpies or acrylic paint to decorate cork coasters; if you have any other tips or suggestions  please share!