Coaster Tutorial

So, after we graduated from a Christian college whose motto was "A Ring by Spring or Get Your Money Back" (ok, not really, but it was semi-officially the motto), we had a zillion weddings to go to. Obviously, this means we had a zillion presents to buy, and we had very little money to spend. 

I found this idea on Pinterest- making coasters using tiles and scrapbooking paper.  I am pretty sure I gave everyone coasters for Christmas, and if I haven't yet, act surprised. However, for wedding presents, I began using the wedding invitations people sent. I love the idea, because anything handmade is a little more heartfelt than the average Target giftcard, and because what else are you going to do with your wedding invitation after the wedding? 

Here's how I do it: 

You will need: 
1 Wedding Invitation
4 tiles (9 cents each at Menards)
Hot Glue
Cork (this entire huge roll was $7.99)
coordinating scrapbook paper
paper cutter
Mod Podge
Clear Gloss Sealer Spray (optional)

 

 Step One: Trace the tile on the cork, and cut out a cork square to put on the bottom of your coaster. 

Step Two: Glue the cork to the back of the tiles using hot glue. 

 Step Three: Using a paper cutter and your piece of scrapbook paper, cut a 4x4 square for the background of the coaster. Do this for all four coasters.

 Step Four: Attach the scrapbook paper to the coasters using Mod Podge. For best results, let the Mod Podge sit for about 10 seconds before applying the paper to it. Smooth all bubbles! 

Step Five: Creatively cut the invitation and apply it to the coasters using Mod-Podge. 

Step Six: Apply 10+ coats of Mod Podge to the tiles. This takes awhile; I let it dry slightly between coats. I usually watch a show while I do the applications. 

Step Seven (Optional): I like to spray Clear Gloss Sealer on my coasters just to finish them off and make them a little more waterproof! 

Those little white scraps were literally all I had left of Sara's invitation! :)


*Note: I have found that using store-bought Mod Podge is best. There are some great recipes for homemade Mod Podge on Pinterest, but as far as the waterproof factor, you can't beat actual Mod Podge!

 So, the initial cost for the supplies is going to be about $20- Mod Podge, cork, and sealer. However, once you've got those in storage, your cost per gift goes WAY DOWN. For four tiles, I spent 36 cents. I also bought a piece of scrapbook paper for 25 cents. So you're looking at maybe a dollar per set? Yes, I know that is an extremely cheap gift, so feel free to pair it with a Target gift card. But if you can't, the cuteness factor should make up for it! Both of the above sets are for FCA workers getting married this summer, and they know just how tight money can be on a ministry budget, so I'm pretty sure they would be fine being featured in the blog. :) 

Happy crafting!