Are you looking for a fun, creative, and budget-friendly craft project? Air-dry clay and napkin decoupage make the perfect combo for unique, handmade coasters. These coasters are simple to make, customizable to your style, and they make lovely gifts too. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process.
What You’ll Need:
- Air-dry clay
- Round cutter or cup
- Decorative napkins or tissues
- Rolling pin
- A knife or clay tool
- Acrylic paint (optional, for edges)
- Sticky cork sheets
- Brushes
- A sealer (or resin if you want it extra shiny & strong
These are products I am using myself, however there are lots of other good options. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Step by Step:
Rolling & Shaping
Start by rolling out the clay to about half a centimeter thick. You don’t want them too chunky, but they should still feel sturdy. Use a round cutter or even a drinking glass to cut out circles — these will be the bases of your coasters.
Drying the Clay
Lay them flat and let the clay dry completely. This can take a day or two depending on the thickness. Flip them over once during drying so they don’t curl up at the edges.
Adding the Design
Once dry, brush on a thin layer of Mod Podge. Most napkins are made of two or three layers — peel them apart so you’re left with just the printed one. That’s the layer you’ll press gently onto your coaster. Smooth it out with your fingers or a soft brush to avoid wrinkles.
Painting the Edges
When the napkin layer is dry, paint around the edges with acrylic paint. This step really neatens them up and makes the design pop.
Finishing Touches
For the back, stick on a circle of cork so the coasters don’t scratch your table. Then give the top another coat of Mod Podge to seal the design. If you’d like a glossier, longer-lasting finish, pour on a thin layer of resin instead (UV lamp needed).
Bundle a few together with ribbon and they make the sweetest handmade gift.
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