Introduction: All Occasion Tile Coasters

Just in time for any holiday these fun and simple coasters use wrapping paper as the main design making them fun and affordable for any holiday gift.

Step 1: Gathering the Materials

First you will need to gather the following materials.

  • Scissors
  • Wrapping paper
  • Ruler
  • Mod podge. (The Matte Finish or other finishes work great for this project. Note: You could get messy)
  • Ribbon
  • Glue
  • Glitter (Note: If glitter is used in the design it will take longer to dry. Approximately 20 extra minutes.
  • Brush-foam
  • 4.5 x 4.5 inch ceramic tile (8)
  • Pencil
  • Squeegee
  • Felt
  • Fine tip permanent marker

Step 2: Cutting the Felt

While waiting for the glitter to dry cut small ½ inch squares out of the felt. Make sure that these squares are even since they will be placed on the bottom of our coasters in order to prevent the coasters from sliding.

Step 3: Applying the Felt

If the felt with the sticky bottom was purchased then peel off the sticker and apply to the bottom of the coaster as shown. If normal felt is used then use regular glue to apply the felt pieces to the bottom of the tile.Make sure when placing the felt onto the tile that they are evenly distributed and placed evenly on the tiles.

Step 4: Measuring the Wrapping Paper

Take the wrapping paper and measure a 4 x 4 inch square. The square will be the decoration on the tile. It is important that you pick a design that is appropriate for the occasion, since the coaster will be displayed for all to see and enjoy.

Step 5: Cutting the Wrapping Paper

Cut the square of wrapping paper. Be careful to cut in straight lines. Any pieces not cut evenly will show once the tile is complete.

Step 6: Adding the Wrapping Paper

Flip the cut piece of paper over and glue a thin layer of mod podge to back side of it. Make sure to use a thin layer of mod podge because too much can cause bubbles when the paper is placed on the tile.

Step 7: Applying the Wrapping Paper

After gluing the back side of the paper, gently place square over the tile. The mod podge should be spread very thin over the paper. Again, make sure this is a thin layer. Too much mod podge will create bubbles and take longer to dry. Press firmly and evenly, ensuring the wrapping paper is centered on the tile. Once the paper is placed on the tile, it is difficult to move. Moving the paper to center it on the tile could cause the paper to rip.

Step 8: Smoothing Out the Air

Run the squeegee outward along the top of the paper, getting rid of any bubbles. Be careful with the squeegee, you don’t want to rip the paper. Let dry for a few minutes. Five minutes should be long enough. (NOTE: If a squeegee cannot be found the mod podge bottle itself will also work in smoothing out the air bubbles)

Step 9: Adding the Design

Place glitter in desired areas or use permanent marker to write your favorite holiday phrase. The glitter should be a thin coat since it will take extra time to dry. If glitter is used instead of marker, plan on waiting 30-40 minutes for the glitter to dry.

Step 10: The Final Coating

Gently use the mod podge to cover the entire tile, paper, and glitter/marker. Again, make sure to use a thin layer of the mod podge. We don’t want to create bubbles or even lines from the foam brush. The mod podge can pool up if it is not spread thinly over the surface. After the mod podge is applied evenly, let dry for approximately 5 minutes and then repeat the application around 3 or 4 times. Each layer needs to be thin in order to build up an even coat that will protect the coaster from moisture.

Step 11: Adding a Personal Note

In the space available on the bottom of the coaster, personalize the tile. This is your chance to write a special note to the person who is receiving your lovely personalized tile coaster or to sign and date the coaster.

Step 12: Wrapping Up

Enjoy your finished coasters by wrapping the tiles together with the ribbon to create a wonderful holiday gift. Simply stack the tiles in stacks (4 or less per stack is recomended) on top of the ribbon. Pull the ribbon around the stack and tie neatly into a bow.