Gather Materials and Supplies
Before you get started, you'll need to gather the supplies you'll need to paint your wooden coaster. Start with a heavy-duty wood coaster - either round or square - along with assorted acrylic paints, brushes, a pencil and eraser, sealer or lacquer, and a small cup of water. You may also want to choose a few design ideas before getting started so that you can create the exact look you're going for. The image below is Warli art an Indian folk art.
Before beginning, make sure to sand the wood coaster so that you get a smooth surface to work with. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and gently sand until the rough edges are smoothed out. Once your coaster is prepped, let it dry completely before beginning to paint. For best results, use vibrant acrylic paints in either matte or glossy finishes. A set of fine-tipped brushes will help you create intricate designs and details - or you could simply choose one color and fill in the entire area for a more unified look. Be sure to apply a sealer or lacquer after you're done painting for lasting durability.
Prepare the Wood Surface
Thoroughly clean the wooden coaster with a damp cloth. Once it has dried, sand the coaster lightly to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. Wipe away any dust created from the sanding with a clean cloth. Once the wood surface is prepared, apply an even layer of sealer or lacquer and allow it to set before you start painting.
When painting a wooden coaster, be sure to use acrylic paint since it’s easy to work with and dries quickly. Acrylic paint also comes in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can customize your coaster exactly how you’d like. For best results, to start with one light coat of primer before applying the acrylic paint. After the primer has dried, you can begin painting the wood piece however you choose. Once finished, apply a coat of varnish or sealer to protect your coaster from wear and tear.
Mix Your Paints for a Unique Color Palette
When it comes to painting your coaster, the possibilities are truly endless! Consider mixing your paints for a unique color palette that works with your other décor. Start by selecting a few primary colors and use their corresponding paint shades.
Then, experiment with combining them together in various ratios to create different tints, shades, and hues of those colors. With some creativity and some practice, you can create beautiful and unique designs that embellish any space!
One practical way to begin painting is by using light and dark shades of the same color on different sections of your coaster. This creates interesting visual dimensionality that can help to make the object come to life. If you wish to use multiple colors, neutrals like tans, beiges, and browns act as nice transitions between brighter hues. Lastly, when you’re finished painting, apply one or two coats of clear gloss for an extra layer of protection–this will make sure your work is looking great for years to come!
Add Sealing Layer to Protect against Wear and Tear
To ensure your coaster withstands the test of time, add a layer of sealant to the painted surface. A sealant will protect against moisture and wear and tear, so your coaster won’t stain or scratch easily. However, it’s important to note that some sealants can slightly change the tone of the color, so make sure to test your paint with a sample before using it on your coaster. Additionally, be sure to follow all safety protocols when applying any type of sealant.
Once you’ve sealed your coaster, it should be good to go! To keep operating at peak performance, make sure to clean your coaster regularly with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution. About once every month, use a furniture polish that is safe for the sealant to keep your coaster looking bright and fresh. With these tips, you should have no problem keeping your wooden coaster beautiful and in tip-top shape for years to come!
Coasters who doesn't need them? Even great when are hand painted and colorful, adding colors to your tea time with friends and family.
If you love chai or coffee or you have friends who love tea time, gift them your hand painted ones, or simply make one for yourself and enjoy the personal touch.
Make your gifting special and unique by showcasing your art and creating a thoughtful gift.