If you have never crafted before, DIY coasters are a great place to start! These 40 ideas will allow you to try a variety of handmade techniques.
Welcome to the world of DIY coasters, where your creativity can spill over just like your morning coffee (but with far less cleanup).
When I learned to knit at age 15, I started with a scarf. Coasters, to me, are the “scarf” of the general crafting world – if you’re just getting started, this is perfect place to begin.
They are easy, small . . . quick. They make great homemade gifts too!
You might start with a simple tile from Home Depot, but before you know it, you’ll be decoupaging like a pro, adding your personal touch to every inch.
Or perhaps you’ll find yourself gluing fabric to cork with the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. The possibilities are as boundless as your imagination – sewing, painting, weaving, crochet, you name it!
But let’s get down to coaster business. There are two golden rules in the land of handmade coasters. First, always remember to seal the top.
We’re talking about a shield of epoxy resin or a layer of Polyvine Varnish – because let’s face it, nobody wants a hot mug peeling off their morning masterpiece.
And don’t forget rule number two: the bottom matters too! A layer of felt or cork will keep your coasters slide-proof and surface-friendly. It’s like giving your coasters a little hug from below, ensuring they’re both pretty and practical.
So, are you ready to jump into the coaster-making deep end? I’ve compiled over 40 ideas to kickstart your journey, ranging from ‘I made this in my sleep’ easy to ‘Look what I can do’ impressive.
This list is your ticket to becoming a coaster-crafting aficionado, one small square at a time.
Scroll down and let the extravaganza begin. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for yourself or creating handmade gifts, these ideas are sure to inspire.
Let’s turn those crafting gears and make some coasters that are as unique as you are!
DIY Coasters
Coasters save your tables from sweaty cold and piping hot drinks. Why not make such a utilitarian item fun and unique with one of these 40 DIY coaster projects?
DIY Sharpie
Who can resist a project that involves alcohol and flames? Take white hexagon tiles and make them beautiful with this tutorial.
DIY Maps
One of the most fun and easy Mod Podge craft ideas is DIY tile coasters. These ceramic coasters are great for home décor, wedding favors, or a unique gift!
Scrabble Tiles
Making Scrabble tile coasters is easy! You can do this project in just a few minutes – it makes a great gift idea or budget home décor.
Wine Corks
Learn how to make simple coasters using wine corks that are both heat and water resistant. Easy to make for decor or gifts.
Embroidered Fruit
These embroidered coasters are perfect for summer – they are themed with sweet fruit! Use cork and this easy tutorial to make them.
Slate Tiles
Dress up plain slate coasters with a white paint pen. Do it freehand, or use a chalk transfer to help you get the exact look you want!
Mod Podge Coasters with Photos
Use your favorite photos to make custom Mod Podge coasters, because DIY photo coasters make perfect gifts! These picture coasters are inexpensive and easy to make.
Constellation Theme
Plain white ceramic tiles, Mod Podge and the print of your choice are used to make these coasters. I love the constellation theme of the print used in this project.
Painted Coasters from a Goodwill Find
Use your favorite craft paint to make these painted coasters! I got them at the Goodwill and gave them a makeover. So easy anyone can do it!
Comic Books
If you are looking for unique crafts for the nerds in your life, these DIY comic book coasters are perfect. Use materials right from the hardware store!
Hudson Bay Blanket Inspired
Inspired by the striped Hudson Bay blankets, these birch coasters are easy to make with acrylic paint.
Wood Slices
If you love winter themed crafts, these painted wood slice coasters are for you. They only take minutes to make and are perfect for gifts!
Geometric Pattern
Felt hexagons and squares come together easily with felt glue to make these DIY coasters.
Macho Men
Use up some fabric scraps to make a set of bearded and mustachioed men coasters. Just use the free templates provided in the tutorial!
Ombre Crocheted
Learn how to make a set of coasters in rainbow shades, or an ombre set like the ones shown here.
Perler Bead Coasters (10+ Designs!)
Make perler bead coasters with one of over ten unique patterns! These are easy to make for gifts or decor, and perfect for crafters of all ages.
Recycled Magazines
Recycle some magazine pages with these fun woven coasters. This is a really simple paper folding project.
Gold Dot Burlap Fabric
This gold dot fabric makes some super cute coasters! They'll really dress up your coffee table.
Quilted Circles
Love quilts but don't want to take on making a whole blanket? These coasters are a fun way to get started!
Woven Mug Rugs
Every mug needs a rug, don't you think? Make this in just one piece (for your work desk) or make an entire set! Great for little plants too, as you can see.
DIY Wool Felt Balls
Kids will find making these wool felt coasters really easy. Great project to work on together! Felt balls also make great garlands.
No-Sew Fabric
Learn how to make simple, no sew, DIY fabric coasters with a vintage scarf and decoupage medium. These are so easy and make a great gift!
Lace Scraps
Scraps of materials can make a cool effect on the surface of these decoupage lace coasters. Learn how to make them in a few easy steps.
Colorful Confertti
There are a million ways you can transform plain tiles with Mod Podge – these confetti coasters are one of those easy and cute ideas!
Hexagon Macrame
The tutorial for these macrame coasters is easy to follow with step-by-step instructions and photos plus a video to help you out.
Resin And Wood
These coasters and really unique, aren't they? If you haven't worked with resin before, this idea is a great starter project.
Green Geode Resin
Geodes are very popular. Using Mod Podge Resin, acrylic paint and glitter, these coasters make some beautiful faux geodes!
Photo Transfer
Easily transfer an image to a wooden round using the Mod Podge Photo Transfer Tool. This image would go well with a western or desert-theme decor, but you can really use any image you like!
Beginner Fabric Squares
You can get really creative with fabric design combinations and when you make these DIY coasters. This is a great beginner sewing machine project.
Marbled Clay & Gold Trim
This colorful coaster project has endless possibilities! They come out completely unique each time, and you're going to love giving these as gifts.
Mason Jar Lids
Do you have a Cricut? These coasters are super easy using your Cricut and heat transfer vinyl.
Glass and Paint
These coasters are actually made from glass candle plates. With a bit of freehand doodling, you can make very unique coasters.
DIY Agate Coasters
Agate has been on trend for the past few years, but these gorgeous stones don’t often come cheap. But you can make your own on a budget!
Marbled with Nail Polish
The marbleizing process used for these coasters works well on numerous projects. Great way to use up leftover nail polish!
No-Sew Yarn
These coasters would be a great project for your tween. The process reminds me of those friendship bracelets you make in summer camp—but easier!
Jute Cord
These coasters use a similar process to the yarn coasters above. Super easy to make with jute cord.
Rustic Wood
I love the shabby-chic look of these coasters. These are designed for the holidays, but any words can be used.
Wood Burned
Technically, these are cork burned coasters, but you will use a wood burning tool to create them. Cork is better for absorbing moisture, so the combination is perfect!
Terra Cotta Trays
These cute DIY coasters are made from terra cotta saucers. Just paint, cut out maps of your favorite locations adhere and enjoy!
Farmhouse Planked
These farmhouse inspired coasters resemble shiplap and have free printables of the sayings shown.
If you enjoyed learning how to make coasters, I’d love for you to take a peek at these other awesome craft ideas for adults with various themes:
Alphabet • Cardboard • Chalkboard • Clay • Clothespins • Clouds • Cottagecore • Decorate Mugs • Driftwood • Easy Crafts • Fabric • Fall • Fashion • Felt • Hearts • Nature • Neckties • Newspaper • Paper Bags • Pom Poms • Recycled • Ribbon • Scrabble Tiles • Sharpies • Sprinkles • Tassels • Washi Tape • Wine Corks
Lucy
Friday 29th of October 2021
That Is good
Lucy
Monday 19th of May 2014
No blue arrows for me either!
Amy
Monday 19th of May 2014
It should be fixed - thank you!
Jane
Wednesday 7th of May 2014
What am i missing? i don't see a way to look at the slide show. i only see the link for the mardi gras beads.
Amy
Wednesday 7th of May 2014
Hi Jane! There should be little blue arrows to scroll through. What device are you on?
Cher @ Designs by Studio C
Wednesday 7th of May 2014
Lots of great ideas, Amy!