DIY Bib Coasters

Shortly after my marathon I saw an advertisement for a site that would turn your bib into coasters. I thought it was a fun idea, but at the same time I thought “hey I could do that!” So I decided to take on the challenge of doing it myself. Ends up, it’s really rather easy!

What you will need:

1)      A copy of your bib, preferably about 8x8

2)      Four tiles, recommended 4x4 and with a slightly rough texture

3)      Mod Podge

4)      Rubber feet or felt pads

5)      Sponge brush

What you will need

You will need a copy of your bib. I would not recommend using your real bib. You can scan it or photo copy it. If the bib you want to use is bigger than 8x8, try resizing it. It can be slightly bigger, but not much bigger (you can have it go over the sides of the tile). I made two sets of coasters, one was exactly 8x8 and the other was just a touch bigger. I personally liked the look of the edges going over the sides a little.

I found that the best size for the tiles is 4x4. You will want a slight texture to it, so that everything adheres better. You can find these at the local hardware store. Next you will want some mod podge. I don’t know a lot about mod podge, so I just grabbed one that said “glossy” at my local craft store and it worked great.

 

You will want something for the bottom of your coasters to protect the surface you put it on. I picked up little rubber feet at the hardware store, but felt pads will also work. And lastly, you will need a sponge brush. I unfortunately used a regular brush (I thought I had a sponge brush but couldn’t find it) and I was picking bristles out of my mod podge the whole time I was working with it.

Once you have all that, you are ready to get started.

First cut the copy of your bib into 4ths (4x4 squares). I used a cutting board to keep it exact, but if you don’t have one, use a ruler to make sure of your measurements.

 

Next, brush a layer of mod podge onto the top of your tile and place your first bib square on top. Use your brush to smooth it out and work out all the bubbles. Once you have the bib where you want it on the tile and smoothed out, brush a layer of mod podge on top, making sure to get the edges fully covered and flat. Set the tile aside to dry and do the same with the other three.

Layer of mod podge on top of tile

First layer of mod podge over the bib

Once the tiles are dry, I recommend brushing on another layer of mod podge. I let it sit for about an hour before adding a second layer. Some of you may want to even add a third. Although I did not do it, it is recommended that you sand lightly between coats with a fine grain sandpaper (I was worried about damaging the paper, so I didn’t). Once everything is dry, put your rubber feet or felt pads on the bottom and voila, you are done!

Rubber feet on the bottom

Done!