Tile Coasters- Tutorial

First off I hope that everyone is safe and prepared for this storm that is effecting the entire east coast. In these rainy days, I have been busy making tile coasters for my open house and for my Etsy shop. I thought I would share a step by step and the best way to make tile coasters to last for a long time. I purchased a box of tile for another project and had many left, so I decided I would use them and make coasters. The tile coasters were .20 cents each, great bargain. I am lucky enough to have a Habitat Restore in our area. I am always there finding bargains and finding trash to treasure items. You can also find closeout and bargain tiles at your local home improvement center.

Step 1. Prep work – Cut 4 by 4 sized scrapbook paper. Lay down newspapers in your work area to protect from spray adhesive and Modge Podge sealer. Wipe and clean all the tiles before beginning this project.

Step 2. Using a spray adhesive, spray all the tiles using light even strokes

Step 3. Place a square piece of scrapbook paper evenly on each tile. Run finger over paper to make sure all edges are firmly in place.

Step 4. Seal the tile with Modge Podge, using even strokes in the same direction.

Step 5. Smooth out any bubbles you may have forming on the paper with your finger, and then re-seal with Modge Podge. Again making sure you brush in the same direction. Let dry completely.

Tip: Make sure you use a heavy amount of Modge Podge, this will keep the paper protected with the next step in sealing the coaster or you can apply another coat of Modge Podge.

This is where most DIY coaster tutorials would stop, after 3 or 4 more coats of Modge Podge. I believe to make the coaster water proof and have a longer lasting coaster, to use an epoxy resin. I will be selling these coasters in my Etsy shop and do not want an inferior product.

Step 6. Tape the back 4 edges of tile with scotch tape. This will keep the drips from adhering to the bottom of the coaster. Trim any extra tape from the edge.

Step 7. Prepare your work surface with cardboard and a few layers of newspaper. This helps to soak up the resin that drips off the edges.

Step 8. Place each coaster on of a mini plastic cup. This allows for resin to drip off the edges.

Step 9. Mix resin according to package directions.

Tip: I use disposable clear plastic cups with ridges. This allows me to pour equal amounts of the 2 part epoxy mix. Once I have equal parts I pour into 1 cup and mix throughly. I use a pop stick to stir the epoxy. This system makes for an easier clean up.

Step 10. Pour the resin in small amounts on each tile. Use the pop stick to spread the resin to all areas of the tile. Make sure to take the resin to the edge so it drips over, this allows for even coverage.

Step 11. Use a flame to help ease out the air bubbles. I find this easier than blowing on the tile, and my hair thanks me too. I decided I would blow on the tiles and I forgot to hold back my hair. My left side is a bit shorter than the right. Thank goodness it was a small amount right on the edge. After that I broke out my mini flame.

Let the tiles dry overnight!

Step 12. Remove tape from the back of the tiles.

Step 13. Place felt on the back side to protect any surfaces the tile comes in contact with.

These coasters make great gifts or house-warming presents. As I stated mine will be for sale in my Etsy shop.