Personalized Tile Coasters

Creating tile coasters is one of my favorite projects. It began with finally doing something with my beer label collection and evolved into using any cool pictures I had saved. I always cut and save pictures and quotes from magazines, calendars, advertisements, etc. and creating these tiles has been a wonderful and functional way to use these collections. They also make wonderful gifts. I made the beer label coasters for my hard-to-buy-for guy friends and used them in wine and craft beer raffle baskets for friends’ charity events.

I research many techniques online and here is what works best for me. Let me know how it works for you.

Materials:

Mod Podge or DIY Mod Podge

Acrylic Sealer *

Tiles**

Sponge Paint Brush

Scissors

Glue Stick

Photos or Pictures of Choice

Felt

Hot Glue Gun

* Sealers and tiles at Lowes or local hardware stores are significantly less expensive then at crafts stores. If shopping at craft stores, don’t forget your coupons.  

**Explore the tile section at Lowes or local hardware store and get what you like

Instructions:

I am a firm believer in art as a personal expression; therefore my instructions are not measurements and specifics but an inspiration for your creativity. If more exact directions are desired, see links at the end. 

1. Choose tile and clean with rubbing alcohol or vinegar. Let dry.
2. Choose picture, quote, photo, or label and cut to desired size and position on tile.  There doesn’t have to be an exact boarder, it really depends on the picture and how you would like it to look. You can also mix and match quotes and pictures, create a mosaic look, use glitter, etc.  
3. Use glue stick or very thin layer of Mod Podge (or DIY Mog Podge) to secure picture in place. Smooth out and let dry completely.  Too much glue will cause picture to bubble. If this happens, continue to smooth out or pierce bubble with a small pin and smooth out.
4. Once dry, brush a thin layer of Mod Podge over entire tile in one direction. Let dry at least 15 minutes but the longer the better. Repeat for 3 coats. Let dry completely between coats.
5. Spray 2-3 coats with acrylic sealer according to the sealer’s directions. This will create a waterproof seal.   
6. Secure felt to bottom. Cut felt slightly smaller then tile. Glue to back of tile using hot glue gun. This will prevent the coaster from sliding or scratching surfaces.
7. Enjoy!

Tips & Notes:

1. Photographs- Use Mod Podge for photos, the DIY version may contain material that will deteriorate photo over time.
2. Be patient. The longer the drying time between all coats the better.
3. Hot Glue- Act quickly. Glue and press felt on one side at a time otherwise, the glue will dry before the felt can adhere to it.
4. Glue Stick- Especially when gluing thinner paper to the tile initially, I find that it is easiest to work with a glue stick to prevent creasing and bubbling. Let it dry completely before applying the top layer of Mod Podge.
5. More Than a Coaster- These tiles do not have to be just coasters. They can be hung as wall art, made into a counter top, back splash, etc., candle holders, plant stands, glue them together to make one large coaster, add ribbon for wall art or signs, etc. The possibilities are endless. Check back for tutorials on these project extensions.
6. Imperfection is perfection. Love your art. :0)

Thank you Style Me Pretty for your tutorial that allowed me to put my own creativity into this project and share my art with others.