How to make fabric scrap coasters

Here’s an easy way of using up fabric scraps to make some colourful coasters. Perfect for those giant G&T’s we’ll be having in our gardens with our loved ones as soon as the restrictions get lifted.

You could also make bigger versions in the same way to make place mats.

You will need:

• Fabric scraps. I used a mix of cotton fabric. The thicker the fabric, the thicker the coaster (and the quicker you’ll make them!)
• Fabric glue. I used Modge Podge, which is great to use as a sealer too.
• Scissors
• A piece of felt for the base of your coasters. Or you could use cardboard.

Step 1 – cut strips of fabric

First step is to cut out some strips of fabric. I cut mine about 1cm thickness. Make them as long as you can, so you end up with longer plaits. This just means you have less ‘joining up’ to do at the later stages.

Step 2 – plait the fabric

Next step is to plait the fabric. Tie each end in knots, so you keep the plaits in place. I then snipped off the knots when you’re ready to use and glue the plait into place.

Step 3 – prepare your coaster base

On the felt fabric (or whatever medium you’re used as your base) draw around the glass/mugs you have in your house at the widest point. This way you’ll know the coasters will be big enough.

Step 4 – glue your plaits

Next step is fiddly. Snip off the knots at the end of the plaits. I start off with a coil in the middle of the felt fabric circle and glue as I go round in the circle. You could use pegs to hold in place while it’s drying.

Once you’ve got to the edge of the drawn circle, glue the end of the plait. I painted a layer of glue over the top of the coaster to seal in the fabric.

Leave overnight to set. Now cut around each coaster so the felt is trimmed to the base.

More ideas

For more ideas on crafts and makes for Easter, head to my Pinterest page ‘Handmade Easter‘.