Easy Peasy Friday: Reviving Old Coasters

Coasters belong to that special category of things that you never think about until you need to use one. You never hear anyone say, "Oh, I have to go to the mall this weekend. I need some new coasters." Maybe a new jacket, running shoes or even some socks but never coasters! Anyway, one day I got tired of looking at my old, sad coasters, which were a hand-me-down from a former roommate. They were perfectly useful, but they didn't match my decor at all....

 

I thought of the rather large pile of vintage wallpaper-inspired scrapbook paper I had leftover from when I made my wedding programs. I decided the paper was much prettier and better suited the rest of my home decor style than the palm trees... So, I gathered my paper and brought out my favorite crafting friend...

 

When it comes to the ultimate crafter's best friend, Mod Podge, I prefer the matte. I find the glare from the shininess of the gloss distracting....

 

First, I picked out which paper to use. I decided to make two different sets and chose four different papers that corresponded in color and style. I wanted each coaster to be unique. This comes in handy for parties and get togethers to help folks remember which coaster/glass is theirs.

 

Next I measured the coasters (four inches on each side), and cut the paper using a paper cutter for an even edge. 

 

To adhere the paper to the coasters, I applied a thin coat directly to the coaster using a small foam paintbrush, then laid the paper on top. Using my fingers, I gently pressed from the center out to the edges to get all of the air out so there would be no air bubbles and give the coaster a flat surface. I then applied another thin coat on top of the paper and repeated the finger technique. After the first coat dried, I applied three additional generous coats (with enough dry time in-between coats of course) to make sure the paper was sealed nice and tight.

 

The results look like cute, store-bought or Etsy-bought coasters, but I didn't even have to leave the house or go online! And since I already had all of the materials, the cost was $0.

 

I wish I had better pictures, but this project was so quick and easy, I only thought to take photos with my phone.

 

But this is still a good example of a super-simple, inexpensive way to jazz up some boring, but still useful household items. And the touch of detail can add even more character to the home.