Create Simple Watermelon Coasters
Updated on June 25, 2021
It’s the perfect personalized gift that costs less than $10 to make. It’s great for any special day and it only takes a few supplies to get started.DIY coasters are a speedy project, and can be a unique way to show off you painting skills. In the spirit of Summer, you can make these simple, watermelon slice coasters from cork, using your favorite paint colors. Perfect for little hands, this craft is sure to be the perfect gift for someone special. You will need either sheets or a roll of cork.
You can find rolls of cork in your local craft store which should run you about five dollars. When making coasters, I try to purchase the smaller sheets so that I don’t have cut a lot of excess cork off. You’ll also need a cutting board, an X-acto, or craft knife, a paint brush and acrylic paint. If you’re painting watermelon slices, you’ll need a bright red, green and black. Feel free to paint other fruit slices, such as lemon, lime, or orange slices. Lastly, you’ll need a pencil or pen.
If you are using a precut sheet of cork, you can use the corner of it as the tip of the watermelon slice. Then all you would need to do is create the rounded end of the slice by drawing an arc on the cork to connect the two sides. You can trace the edge of a cup or plate to give you a perfect arc.
Next, you can either outline sections of the watermelon slice on the cork and paint them in, or you can, by freehand, paint the outer portion green, the fruit filling red, and the seeds black. Use an acrylic paint to carefully, paint each section. Use a paintbrush with finer hairs to paint the seeds as they are very small. You really can’t go wrong here, so trust your freehand and don’t overthink it!
To make these coasters waterproof, consider coating it with a clear varnish while the paint is still wet. Let the varnish mix in with the wet paint and let both settle and seal until dry. This ensures that the cork is still absorbent enough to soak up the varnish as well.
This costs around five dollars and can be picked up at most craft stores. Follow the specific instruction on the sealant product you buy. Some take longer than others to dry completely, but overall I would recommend at least a day to cure. Overall, the coasters should hold up pretty well.
They are so delightful, you’ll probably end up making a set for yourself. They make great gifts for new neighbors, teachers, or coworkers. They even fit great in a Christmas stocking! I hope you enjoyed this quick and colorful project!
