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How to Make Coasters

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Category: Home Decor

Coasters come in many varieties, but Carter Oosterhouse can show you how to make them yourself from unexpected materials. Using items like rope, cork, wallpaper, appliques, balsa wood and ceramic tile, the decor expert demonstrates how to create one-of-a-kind pieces that will look great on any coffee table. The best part is that these projects are both easy and fun to do!

Step 1: Rope
Using a glue gun simply apply a little glue along the inside of a short length of rope, and then slowly coil the rope around itself.

Step 2: Cork
Create a decoupage coaster by applying glue to one side of a cork square, and then adding wallpaper and other appliques.

Step 3: Balsa Wood
Apply a decorative transparency to a sheet of balsa wood. Then frame it with a cork square with a window cut-out.

Step 4: Ceramic Tile
Use the tile alone, or add your own decorative finish. Whatever you choose, remember to put felt pads on the backside so as to not scratch up your table.

Items You'll Need for this GMC Trade Secret

  • Rope
  • Glue Gun
  • Cork Squares
  • Wallpaper and Appliques
  • Balsa Wood
  • Ceramic Tile
  • Felt Pads

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Kim

I like the idea about the rope coaster - looks easy enough and functional. Thanks!

December 12 2011 at 8:43 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Kim

I like the idea about the rope coaster - that looks easy and functional. Thanks!

December 12 2011 at 8:43 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
djandpblackburn

Kind of neat........enjoyed the videos

December 04 2011 at 10:54 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
broookee

does he actually get paid for making this stuff???

December 04 2011 at 7:54 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
mrsweezie

I love this tips on making things.

December 04 2011 at 6:43 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Christina Chicoine

That was fantastic! Thank you....

November 01 2011 at 2:23 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Elizabeth Hood

"I put on some decoupage for a nice glossy finish". He's using MATTE Mod Podge, not glossy...... Fail. Also, Mod Podge does not take well to having wet things (like a cup covered in condensation) placed on it. Your cup will stick and it will ruin your coaster. There is a way you can "set" it by baking, but it might ruin the other parts of the coaster in the process.

October 25 2011 at 7:31 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply

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