Coasters make for a satisfying weekend project because they’re quick to make, useful around the house, and easy to do with friends. You can keep things simple, have a chat while you paint, and still end the day with something you’ll actually use.
1. Clay fruit coasters
Fruit coasters are timeless and easy to make. Just roll out air-dry clay, cut circles (a cup works well for a template), and smooth the edges with a damp finger. Once dry, paint each one like a fruit slice – citrus, kiwi, dragonfruit, watermelon… whatever you’re in the mood for. We have a tutorial for this one, if you want to follow along and have a go.
2. Beachy designs
Image: @kissmyarthq
If you like neutral tones and calm, coastal vibes, this style might be worth exploring.
Dive into sandy beige backgrounds, white dotted details, and simple palms, shells, or starfish shapes. They also make a thoughtful handmade gift set if you stack a few and tie with a bow!
3. Colour-in ceramic coasters
If you want a super easy option for a group craft night, pickup a coaster colouring set (or a few)!
Our Colour-in Ceramic Coaster Set 7pc comes with Summer Coast themed outlines already printed on the surface, so all that’s left is to colour them in. Great for chatting while you work, and you can experiment with other marker colours to personalise your palette. Once dry, you can use as is or seal them with a little Gloss Acrylic Varnish for a pop of shine.
4. Cork coaster ideas
Image: @ipaint_icreate
Cork coasters are light and simple to personalise.
Try an abstract botanical theme with leaf shapes, stems, and colour blocking. A limited acrylic colour palette usually looks the most “home décor” and less busy. What plants would you want to paint?
5. Polymer clay coaster DIY
These ones look pretty intricate, but the process is actually really simple!
Condition a few strips of polymer clay in different colours, twist them together, then press flat into a circle. Cut the shape out and bake, then use on your coffee table, dining space, or kitchen bench. Check out the full tutorial to see a step-by-step breakdown.
6. Air-dry clay coaster
Add some fun and whimsy to your décor with coasters that look good enough to eat.
These biscuits are made from air dry clay, so you don’t even need to bake them (which is weird since they look like baked goods…). It all comes together in the painting, so have a look at our handy lesson to see exactly what we did.
7. Agate coaster DIY
If you like that swirly “stone” look, polymer clay we recommend getting to know polymer clay.
Pick a few clay colours that work well together, roll out some thin strips, then create a cane using the colours. Once the cane is nice and thick, slice into rounds, gently flatten, bake, then seal for shine. Every coaster turns out different, which is half the fun! We have another tutorial you can check out for all the steps.
Just a heads up, you can always seal your coasters to protect them and add a glossy finish if you like that look. If you don’t, we also have matte finish varnish!
If you end up making a set, share it with us by tagging @montmarteart or using #montmarteart – we’d love to see what you create.
If you want to see more art, browse our Inspo collection. You can sign-up to Creative Connection by popping in your email down below to get stacks of free art projects sent straight to you. We’re here to keep you inspired!
