How to Upcycle Drink Coasters

Another item that I come across lots of in second hand shops is drink coasters, the cork backed ones. Often the coasters dont look to have been used – no staining on the cork and they might still be in a pristine box. So lets upcycle them!

In this tutorial we focus on one method to upcycle drink coasters, using the technique of  decoupage.

How to Upcycle Drink Coasters

Supplies

  • coasters
  • sandpaper
  • mod podge
  • paint brushes – 2 sizes
  • map or other paper
  • Primer paint
  • pencil
  • scissors
  • craft knife

 

Instructions

  • Make sure your coaster is clean if not give it a wipe down with a damp cloth.
  • Paint the surface of the coaster with a primer paint, this is important especially if the coaster has a dark image on it. I painted the coasters with two coats of primer allowing to dry in between coats.

Priming the Coaster

 

  • Place the coaster on top of the paper you are using and draw around the coaster with pencil.

Drawing Around coaster

  • With the scissors cut out the shape you have just drawn
  • Using a water bath i place the piece of paper in it briefly then i coat the top of the coaster and paper with Mod Podge
  • Place the paper on top of the coaster. Squish out any bubbles and allow to dry. Give a second coat of Mod Podge, allow to dry. Check the edges to make sure they are stuck down if not use a small paint brush to add in some Mod Podge between the coaster and the paper.
  • With your sharp craft knife trim the edges of the paper if they overhang the coaster.

Triming

  • Take your sandpaper and gently sand the edge of the coaster. Using a downward motion from map to coaster so that the map is not pulled up. This will ensure all paint that may have got over the edge is removed and gives a nice rounded edge to your coasters.
  • Spray with Rust-oleum 2x Ultra Cover Glass Clear this is to help protect it from heat.

Finished Coasters

 

Video

If you prefer a video to give you more context on how to upcycle drink coasters then watch below. If you have any questions feel free to pop over to my group The Creative Hub by Jen and ask away. For a previous tutorial on another item that you can upcycle and there are lots of in op shops check it out here