DIY Project

Paint · Christmas · Adults

Alcohol ink tile coasters

Swirly, marble-looking coasters made from cheap white tiles and alcohol ink, sealed so they handle sweaty glasses.

Alcohol ink tile coasters
LevelBeginner
Time1 hour plus 3 days curing
Cost$20 to $35

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Alcohol ink and 91 percent alcohol are flammable, so work away from flames and spray sealers outdoors.

  1. Step 1: Clean the tiles
    1

    Clean the tiles

    Wipe each tile with rubbing alcohol to remove fingerprints. Ink slides off greasy spots.

  2. Step 2: Drop on the ink
    2

    Drop on the ink

    Add 3 to 5 drops of ink in 2 or 3 colors. Leave some white space.

  3. Step 3: Move it around
    3

    Move it around

    Tilt the tile and blow through a straw to push the ink. Add a drop of alcohol where you want it to bloom.

  4. Step 4: Let it dry
    4

    Let it dry

    Leave the tiles flat for 24 hours. The ink smudges at the slightest touch until then.

  5. Step 5: Seal outdoors
    5

    Seal outdoors

    Spray 2 light coats of the alcohol ink varnish outside, 15 minutes apart. Then add 2 coats of gloss sealer.

  6. Step 6: Add the feet
    6

    Add the feet

    Wait 3 days for full cure, then stick felt or cork pads to the back corners.

Edie's tip

Heads up: regular sealers can reactivate alcohol ink and smear it. Use the varnish made for alcohol ink first, then topcoat.

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