Introduction: Paper Coasters
As I was fumbling through old papers and magazines, deciphering which ones I may need in the future, I thought of an idea. What can I make with this paper, rather than disposing of it? Sure, recycling it is fun, but who knows how much of it is actually recycled. I sure don't.
I figured I would craft something out of it! My siblings and parents are always using post-it notes, and other pieces of paper for coasters, but those papers usually are something important. So I made the paper coasters.
Read on.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
- A stack of unwanted paper
- Circle template or a protractor
- Pencil/Pen
- Strong scissors & thin scissors
- Stapler
Step 2: Collect the Paper
The paper that you can use can be any paper. I used some pieces of magazine, newspaper, and paper from my backpack.
I gathered a stack of paper around 25 high, and I placed the glossy magazine paper on top. I put the glossy paper on top, because I felt it absorbed the liquid better than traditional computer paper or newspaper. But then again, it is your choice. If your stapler cannot handle 25 pieces, take a few pieces off so it can.
Once you have your stack, staple twice or three times around the edge, so the tracing and cutting is easier.
Step 3: Draw the Template
Get your circle template or protractor, and start tracing circles on your stack of paper.
Try to make as many as you can.
Step 4: Start Cutting
Start cutting the circles out. Take your strong scissors for this, and once you cut the circle out, take smaller scissors and trim the edges so that they are even.
You don't want to get a paper cut!
Step 5: Stapling Time
Now grab your stapler. I used four staples for each large coaster. You could use three, but then there is more of a chance for them to pull apart.
Once they are stapled they are finished! You have a paper coaster, made from unwanted paper!

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12 Comments
8 years ago on Introduction
Stack of unwanted papers...is that a bad test grade on top?
9 years ago on Step 5
I am thinking that the staples would do the opposite of what you'd want the coasters for. Maybe you could cover them up with felt afterwards?
11 years ago on Introduction
https://www.instructables.com/id/Duct-Tape-Tear-Away-Scratch-Pad/Cool Idea...
Instead of Staples use .... Duckt Tape around the rims... simmiler to :https://www.instructables.com/id/Duct-Tape-Tear-Away-Scratch-Pad/
you can also use difrent color tapes...
11 years ago on Introduction
I like the idea, but am wondering how you keep the staples (bottom side of coaster) from scratching wood surfaces??? Do you attach a layer of protection on the bottom somehow?
11 years ago on Introduction
Coasters are commonly used in bars and restaurants, so that people can place their drinks with condensation onto this piece of paper, so that it does not damage the table surface, or cause unnecessary water on the table.
12 years ago on Introduction
Neat! I give you a 5!
12 years ago on Introduction
One of those Instructables when you just have to say: WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THAT?! Great job. +1 vote. +1 rating.
12 years ago on Introduction
Great idea, but I have to agree with SpeakForTheTrees. If you seal it by using glue, they'll probably last a lot longer too.
Also, it seems like having staples may damage your surfaces instead of protecting them from your cups.
This is cool, though. I want to make them with magazines i have laying around now. It might be cool to make a collage. lol, thanks for getting me all crafty. :P
12 years ago on Introduction
Nice idea, but I think wheat paste would be a better way to finish the coasters. It would create thicker layers and it would be less flimsy.
12 years ago on Introduction
Cool! Great Idea,.
12 years ago on Introduction
Cool!
12 years ago on Introduction
Coolio! Good way to reuse paper! +1 rating +1 vote