SUPPLIES
- Precut corkboard rounds or thick sheets of cork
- Utility knife
- Cutting mat
- Stencils
- Acrylic Paint
- Small, medium and large paint brushes
- Craft glue
- Small decorations/embellishments
- Colorful tissue paper and coordinating ribbon
- Transparent tape
Overview
If you've ever wanted to give someone a handmade gift that isn't too difficult or expensive to make and is something that is universally used and appreciated, create corkboard coasters. It doesn't take a lot of time and ends up looking great.
Making Corkboard Coasters
Step 1
You can buy precut corkboard rounds or squares perfect for making coasters, or buy cork in rectanglular or square sheets to cut down yourself at your local craft store. If you buy sheets of cork, trace a square or round shape at least 4 by 4 inches, or 4 inches in diameter. Cut out four to six coasters using a utility knife on a cutting mat or other solid cutting surface.
Step 2
Once you have your coasters cut out, decide how you want to decorate them. If it's a gift, consider using a stencil to paint the recipient's first or last initial in the center of each coaster. Or, choose a seasonal shape or image. If you want to paint the background instead of leaving the cork to show, do this first and let dry using acrylic craft paint.
Step 3
Now that you've decided on a design, press your stencil down and begin dabbing your paintbrush around the edges to avoid smearing the paint beneath the stencil. Then, carefully paint the inside and lift. Feel free to carefully touch up the design. Set aside to dry and repeat on remaining coasters.
Step 4
Once your main design is dry, it's time to add a border, if you wish. You could embellish using glue and small beads or sequins, or simply use your stencil again to paint a border. Repeat on each coaster and let dry.
Step 5
Once dry, stack with tissue paper between each coaster. Fold down the loose tissue around the stack, tape to secure and tie with a colorful ribbon.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Get creative. You could use a ruler to outline stripes on the cork coasters and paint alternating colors or even repeat a small shape to create a motif.
- WARNING : Avoid using glitter since it will just rub off when a glass is placed on it.
