A quick online search for agate or quartz coasters will bring up beautiful pieces at eye-watering prices. But you can get the look without the budget blowout by making your own.
With little more than MDF discs, a few tubes of flow paints and a packet of party balloons, you can create your own gorgeous gold-edged coasters.
What is agate?
A common rock formation, agate is a type of quartz (or chalcedony – a translucent variety) with bands and patterns in an array of colours. Used as gemstones for millennia, agates are also cut as marbles, paperweights and other household items.
Easy steps to your faux agate coasters
Gather your supplies:
- MDF coasters
- One-step primer
- Artist’s acrylics matte flow in three blues and gold
- Water-based clear varnish
You’ll also need:
- Paintbrushes
- Wire rack
- Plastic cup
- Balloons
Here’s how
Step 1
Apply primer to MDF coasters and leave to dry on wire rack.
Step 2
Squeeze paint into plastic cups and add water in a ratio of 4:1. Mix well.
Step 3
Pour darkest colour in centre of coaster in a circle. Pick it up and tilt to spread the circle.
Step 4
Pour 2 more colours onto first circle of paint, then finish with gold.
Step 5
Blow up balloon and tie off. Press balloon onto coaster to spread paint. Use your finger to apply gold paint around coaster edge.
Step 6
When paint is dry, apply 2 coats of varnish to coasters with a paintbrush. Leave to dry.
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How to make DIY faux flower arrangements
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