How to Easily Decorate Slate Coasters

When I first started selling slate coasters in bulk, I did it because they looked natural and were a good fit with our sustainable options. I began by using slate coasters on our outdoor patio and would customize them with a piece of soapstone or a chalk marker. You could wash them with warm soapy water and do it all over again. Slate coasters are very durable and can be customized in many different ways - even graffiti art.

Customizing slate coasters is easy. In fact, there are numerous methods to customize slate and end up with a finished product that will knock your socks off. But this article is more about how to decoupage slate coasters to bring your imagination to life. I’ve found that no matter how you decide to customize your slate coasters they always make terrific gifts. If you have the resources, and the know-how they can also make a great new addition to your online store. Heck, just look at Etsy and you will find dozens of different ideas on how sellers are customizing slate coasters and making money.

I saw a great short video on how to customize coasters with paper napkins. I thought it was a neat idea and decided to give it a shot myself. Customizing slate coasters this way would make a great gift or product idea. You could sell them with a set of matching napkins for a tea party or themed celebration. The best thing of all is that it is easy and anyone can do it, and trust me if I can pull something creative off you can do it better.

Here’s a great short video on the technique showing how to decoupage slate coasters that look great.

What you’ll need for this project:

• Slate coasters

• Paint - this is optional and I used spray paint from a local Home Depot

• Napkins - I purchased a pack from a local Dollar Store

• Scissors

• Tape or brush applicator

• Foam or small paintbrush

• Glue/sealer - I used Mod Podge glue/sealer

• Sponge or brush

• Aerosol sealer - I used Mod Podge

  1. I started by cleaning the slate coaster and taping the edges with masking tape. I then applied a couple of coats of spray paint and let it dry overnight.

2. Next, cut the napkins with the designs you want to glue to the coaster. Remove the tape and apply the Mod Podge glue and place the napkin onto the coaster. I then placed a silicone sheet and pressed the napkin to the slate coaster. You can use a roller and a sheet protector for this step as well. The goal is to firmly press the napkin to the coaster. Don’t apply any glue where you don’t want the napkin to stick. Set aside and let dry.

3. Once the glue has dried it is time to remove the unwanted portion of the napkin. You can use a damp sponge or in my case, I used a stiff nylon-bristled brush and worked the edges. Once the excess napkin was removed I set it aside and let it dry for a couple of hours.

4. To finish it off I applied a couple of coats of Mod Podge Sealer. Let dry and you are ready to go.

This was a fun and quick project. Make a set for a special party and keep the extra napkins to use along with the matching coasters.

Decorative Slate Coasters - Fun and Easy