Picture you set down your mug of coffee and underneath it is Batman squaring off against a gang of ninjas. Or maybe it’s Batgirl making her grand entrance.
Coasters don’t have to be boring cork squares; they can be miniature comic pages that guard your furniture while telling a story.
Each sip becomes part of a panel, as though your table itself is part of the adventure.
Materials Needed
- 4-6 plain ceramic tiles (4”×4” squares)
- Comic book pages or color photocopies (trimmed to fit tiles)
- Mod Podge (matte or glossy finish)
- Foam brush
- Clear acrylic spray sealant
- Felt pads
- Scissors and ruler
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Select your favorite comic panels.
I always look for bold action shots or iconic dialogue bubbles, it makes the coasters pop with energy. Then trim them neatly to fit your tile surface.
Step 2: Brush a thin layer of Mod Podge onto the ceramic tile, then carefully press your comic piece on top. You should smooth out air bubbles with your fingers or the edge of a ruler.
Step 3: Once it’s dry, apply another coat of Mod Podge over the surface, sealing the edges.
Don’t worry if it looks streaky as it dries clear. Apply 2-3 coats for durability, letting each coat dry completely.
Step 4: After the Mod Podge has set, spray the tiles with clear acrylic sealant to make them water-resistant.
This step is what keeps condensation from your drinks from damaging the paper.
Step 5: Attach felt pads to the bottom of each tile so they don’t scratch your table.
Step 6: Let the coasters cure for at least 24 hours before using. Trust me, it’s worth the wait, rushing means sticky cups later.
Tips:
I once made a set as a gift, alternating between action-packed panels and quieter character moments. It felt like giving a mini-comic spread disguised as a home essential.