Handmade decoupage coasters are one of the most rewarding small craft projects you can tackle. Using simple ceramic tiles, printed paper napkins or scrapbook paper, and Mod Podge, you can create gorgeous, water-resistant coasters for your home or to give as personalized gifts.
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to decoupaging ceramic tile coasters with smooth, durable results.
Supplies Needed
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4×4 ceramic tiles (white or light-colored unglazed/tumbled tiles work best)
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Decorative paper napkins, tissue paper, or printed scrapbook paper
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Mod Podge (Matte or Satin finish)
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Acrylic craft paint (light color for base coat, optional)
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Foam sponge brushes
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Fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit)
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Heat-resistant clear sealer (such as Polycrylic or heat-resistant spray sealer)
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Self-adhesive felt pads or cork backing sheets
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Tile Surface
Wipe your ceramic tiles with rubbing alcohol or warm soapy water to remove dust and oils, then let them dry completely.
If your tile is dark or unpainted, apply a thin coat of white or cream acrylic paint over the top surface. Since paper napkins become semi-translucent when wet with glue, a light background keeps your printed design bright and vibrant.
Step 2: Separate Your Paper Layers
If you are using decorative paper napkins, you must remove the extra backing layers first. Most decorative napkins are 2-ply or 3-ply. Carefully peel away the white back layers so you are left with only the ultra-thin top layer containing the printed design.
Maker Tip: Press a piece of Scotch tape onto a back corner of the napkin and pull gently—it will separate the layers cleanly without ripping the printed design.
Step 3: Apply Mod Podge & Position the Paper
Brush a thin, even coat of Mod Podge onto the top of the tile. Avoid leaving thick puddles or uneven brush marks.
Carefully lay your cut paper or napkin layer over the wet surface. To smooth out wrinkles and air bubbles without tearing delicate napkin paper, lay a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper over top. Use your fingers to gently smooth from the center outward toward the edges, then carefully peel off the plastic wrap. Let it dry for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Trim and Clean Up the Edges
Once the Mod Podge is fully dry, take a fine-grit sanding block and gently rub downward along the sharp outer edges of the tile. The friction will cleanly slice off any overhanging napkin paper, leaving a crisp, flush border along every edge.
Step 5: Seal for Water & Heat Resistance
Because coasters hold hot coffee mugs and cold, dripping drink glasses, standard Mod Podge alone isn’t enough to protect against moisture or heat stickiness.
Brush 2–3 thin coats of Mod Podge over the entire top and sides, allowing 15–20 minutes to dry between coats. Once the Mod Podge has cured, top it off with a clear, heat-resistant waterproof sealer (such as a spray acrylic sealer or brush-on polycrylic) for long-lasting protection.
Step 6: Add Backing Pads
To keep your new coasters from scratching wooden tables, peel-and-stick felt pads or a cut square of sheet cork onto the bottom of each tile.
Your custom ceramic tile coasters are now ready to display or package up as a thoughtful handmade gift set!
Watch the Tutorial
For a visual walkthrough of this exact technique, feel free to watch our step-by-step tutorial over on the My Lovi YouTube Channel. Happy crafting!
