Wood coasters are a great way to add a touch of rustic charm to your home decor. They can also be a practical addition to your kitchen or dining room, as they can help protect your furniture from water rings. However, if you don’t properly seal your wood coasters, they can absorb moisture and become warped or stained. In this article, we’ll show you how to make wood coasters waterproof.
Supplies Needed for Waterproofing Your Wood Coaster
If you're looking to make your own DIY wood coasters, you'll need a few supplies to get started. For the coaster itself, you'll need a piece of wood that's at least 1/4 inch thick. You can find pre-cut pieces of wood at most hardware stores.
If you're looking for a more rustic look, you can find pieces of fallen branches or cut your own from a log. To make your coasters waterproof, you'll need to seal them with a clear polyurethane sealer.
You can find this at most hardware stores as well. Be sure to read the labels and get a sealer that's specifically designed for use on wood.
Sandpaper
Summer is the perfect time to make your own wood coasters! But if you're going to use them outdoors, you'll need to waterproof them first.
Here's how:
1. Start by sanding your wood coasters. This will help the waterproofing sealer adhere better.
2. Next, apply a waterproofing sealer to the coasters. Be sure to follow the instructions on the sealer.
3. Allow the sealer to dry completely. Now your wood coasters are ready to use outdoors!
Polyurethane
Waterproofing your homemade DIY wood coasters is a simple and easy process that will protect your coasters and furniture from water damage.
You will need:
- Polyurethane
- A paintbrush
- Waterproofing sealant (optional).
To waterproof your wooden coasters, start by applying a generous coat of polyurethane to the top and bottom of each wooden coaster. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, and don't forget the sides!
Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat for extra protection. If you want to be extra cautious, you can also apply a waterproofing sealant to the bottom of each coaster.
Clear Sealant
All you need is some clear sealant and a little bit of time.
- First, clean your wood coasters with a damp cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the sealant from adhering properly. Once they're clean, dry them completely.
- Next, apply a thin layer of clear sealant to each coaster. Be sure to get even coverage. You can use a brush or a sponge to apply the sealant. Let the sealant dry completely before using the coasters.
Easy Steps to Seal Wood Coasters
If you're like me, you love the look of wood coasters. But what if you want to use them outdoors or in a place where they might get wet?
Here's how to make your wood coasters waterproof.
1. Start by sanding your coasters. This will help to create a smooth surface that the waterproofing sealer can adhere to.
2. Next, apply a coat of waterproof sealer to the coasters. Be sure to follow the instructions on the sealer you're using.
3. Once the sealer is dry, your coasters are ready to use!
Sanding
Waterproofing your wood coasters is a simple process that requires sanding. By sanding the coaster, you create a smooth surface that is less likely to absorb moisture. This will help protect your coaster from water damage and keep it looking its best.
To sand your coaster, you will need:
- Sandpaper -Sanding block
- A vacuum.
Start by sanding the coaster with coarse sandpaper to remove any roughness. Then, switch to finer sandpaper and continue sanding until the coaster is smooth. Vacuum the coaster to remove any dust before applying a waterproof sealant.
Applying Sealant
There are a few things you can do to make sure your wood coasters are waterproof. The first is to apply a sealant. You can find a sealant at your local hardware store. Make sure to follow the instructions on the sealant and apply it evenly to the coaster. Another way to waterproof your coasters is to apply a layer of polyurethane. Polyurethane is a clear coating that will protect the wood from moisture.
Drying
Waterproofing your wood coasters is a simple process that only requires a few supplies that you likely already have in your home. The first step is to sand your coasters down with medium-grit sandpaper.
Once you have sanded them down, you will want to wipe them off with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Next, you will need to apply a coat of sealer to the coasters.
You can use any type of sealer, but we recommend using something like Polycrylic for a durable finish.
Apply the sealer according to the instructions on the can and let it dry completely.
Once the sealer is dry, you can apply a coat of waterproofing varnish.
Conclusion
Making wood coasters waterproof is a simple process that only requires a few supplies.
- First, sand the coasters to smooth any rough edges.
- Next, apply a layer of polyurethane or another clear sealant.
- Finally, let the sealant dry completely before using the coasters.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your DIY coasters will be durable and long-lasting.
FAQ
What finish to use for wooden coasters?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a finish for your wooden coasters.
- The first is the wood itself. If the wood is unfinished, you'll need to seal it to protect it from moisture. You can use a clear sealer or a stain/sealer combo.
- The second is the type of coaster you're making. If you're using absorbent materials like cork or felt, you'll need to use a water-resistant finish.
- Finally, you need to consider the look you're going for. A high-gloss finish will give your coasters a more modern look, while a matte finish will give them a more rustic feel.
Should wooden coasters be sealed?
There are many factors to consider when sealing wooden coasters.
The most important factor is the type of wood the coaster is made from.
If the coaster is made from soft wood, it is more likely to absorb moisture and swell, which can cause the coaster to warp.
Hardwoods are less likely to absorb moisture and are less likely to warp. Another factor to consider is the finish of the coaster.
A glossy finish will show water spots more easily than a matte finish. You should also consider how often the coaster will be used.
Is Mod Podge waterproof for coasters?
Mod Podge is not waterproof for coasters. However, if you are willing to spend the time and money to waterproof your coasters, you can use a clear sealant such as polyurethane or acrylic sealer to coat your coasters. You can also buy coaster mats that have a waterproof backing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia Poglianich
Content Strategist
Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the wooden crafts and 3D product design space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.
