DIY Map Coasters

These DIY map coasters are super easy to make, so break out your Mod Podge and follow along! You might even make a few sets as these make great gifts as well. Once you know how to make your own coasters, you will be making them for gifts and so much more!

Want more coaster ideas? We have all of our coaster crafts here!

DIY Map Coasters Video Tutorial

Want to see a quick video of these DIY map coasters? Just click play on the video below to watch the entire process from start to finish.

Can’t watch the video or miss some of the steps? You can also follow along below.

How To Make DIY Map Coasters

I love maps y’all! Love, love, love!

I decided to put some maps on coasters for my living room. I’ve used maps many times before in our home. There are so many different ways you can use them and display them. I love to frame them or display vintage maps as art, repurpose them as placecards, or use them to elevate a tray.

This project doesn’t require pouring epoxy or anything complicated. Just coasters (you can even use old ones), Mod Podge, and a few maps!

Supplies Needed To Make DIY Map Coasters

• Mod Podge
• Maps
• Tiles (I actually had painted some tiles with a monogram many years ago and they had seen better days, so I revamped those instead of buying new tiles. The tiles were originally from the flooring section at Lowe’s.)
• Self-adhesive felt
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Paintbrush

Step 1: Trace & Cut Out Map For Coaster

Decide which part of the map you want to use for each coaster. Then, place the coaster over the center of that area and trace around your coasters onto the maps. Once traced cut your maps to size with scissors.

Step 2: Add A Thin Layer Of Mod Podge To The Back Of Map

Something I just recently learned that has ROCKED my Mod Podge world is before you begin your Mod Podge project, apply a layer of Mod Podge to the BACK of your paper and allow it to dry. This has basically solved all the wrinkling issues that I have had in the past with projects.

Once you do this, allow your maps to dry.

Step 3: Glue Map To Tile

When your maps are dried, add a layer of Mod Podge to the tile itself and adhere your map to it.

Step 4: Add 3 More Layers Of Mod Podge To Map Coasters

After that dries, apply about 3 layers of Mod Podge to the top of your coasters allowing them to fully dry between each coat. The Outdoor Mod Podge is best for this as it will hold up better. I then allowed my coasters to cure for 48-72 hours before using them.

NOTE:  I have had several questions about how long these will last. We used them daily for about 2 years before changing to other coasters. This stuff holds up so well!

Step 5: Add Felt To The Bottom Of Tile (Optional)

When your tiles have dried, trace around them onto your self-adhesive felt, cut out the felt, and apply it to the bottom of your coasters.

NOTE: Self-adhesive felt held fine for me, but you can add regular felt with some glue if you prefer.

Once your felt has been added to your coasters, you are ready to use them!

You can use any maps that you wish on your coasters! I basically started with a map of North America.

Then I “zoomed in” a little more to the United States.

I then “zoomed in” a little more to the state level.

Then I “zoomed in” to the county level. A little geography lesson while you are enjoying your drinks in the living room!

These fun DIY map coasters will be perfect for your home. You can even make these as a gift!

I know that we loved our DIY map coasters for years and you will too! Y’all enjoy!

FAQs About DIY Map Coasters

Here are questions I frequently see readers ask about these DIY map coasters. If you have a question but don’t see it answered down below, please leave it in the comments so I can answer it for you.

Where Did You Get The Maps From?

They all came from thrift stores. Try Etsy or eBay if you can’t find any!

Can You Use Printed Maps From The Internet Or Do They Have To Be An Actual Store Bought Maps?

You can use both. However, if you use a printed map from the internet, the ink (if it’s an inkjet printer) has the tendency to run when you add Mod Podge on top.

Due to that, I would make sure to let your printed map dry completely and that you spray the printed map with aerosol hair spray to set the ink. Then use Mod Podge on top.

My Coasters Feel Tacky, How Can I Fix This?

If your coasters feel tacky due to the Mod Podge, I recommend checking out this blog post from Mod Podge Rocks for solutions on how to fix it.

Could I Add Cork To The Bottom Of The Coasters Instead Of Felt?

Yes, you can! Cork would be a great option for these coasters.

Is It Possible To Do This With A Picture, Not Just A Map?

Absolutely! If you print your pictures at home, be sure to seal the images on the paper before applying Mod Podge. However, if you rather skip this additional step, I would have your pictures printed on photo paper at a store.

Also, if you want to see a coaster project that uses photos, check out our DIY Photo Coasters blog post!

5 More Coaster Crafts

Did you love these DIY map coasters and are looking for more coaster crafts? Then check out the projects below!

• How to Make Resin Coasters
• Infusible Ink Watercolor Coasters
• DIY Wood Coasters with the Cricut Maker
• Recycled CD Coasters
• Wood Burning Ideas: How to Make Coasters