There’s something magical about preserving nature in art, and what better way to do it than with DIY pressed wooden flower coasters? These charming coasters add a rustic, floral touch to your home while being an easy, fun craft project. Plus, they make fantastic handmade gifts for friends and family!
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just looking for a creative weekend project, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making your own pressed flower coasters. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These DIY Pressed Flower Coasters
Pressed flower coasters are the perfect blend of practicality and beauty. Here’s why this project is a must-try:
Affordable & Customizable – You can make these with minimal supplies and tailor them to match your home decor or gift recipient’s style.
Eco-Friendly – Instead of throwing away flowers, you can preserve them in a creative and useful way.
Perfect for Gifting – Handmade gifts always carry a special touch, making these coasters a thoughtful present for birthdays, housewarmings, and holidays.
Beginner-Friendly – Even if you’re new to crafting, this project is simple and fun!
Materials Needed
Before we get started, gather the following supplies:
- Wooden coasters – You can buy pre-cut wooden coaster rounds or squares online or at craft stores.
- Pressed flowers – Store-bought or DIY (we’ll cover how to press flowers below).
- Mod Podge (for a matte/semi-gloss finish) OR resin (for a glassy, durable finish)
- Paintbrush – For applying Mod Podge.
- Fine sandpaper – To smooth out the wooden surface.
- Tweezers – Helps with precise flower placement.
- Clear acrylic sealer – If using Mod Podge, this helps protect against water damage.
- Optional: Acrylic paint or wood stain for a colored background.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepping the Wooden Coasters
Start by sanding your wooden coasters with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface. This helps the Mod Podge or resin adhere better.
If you want a rustic or colorful look, you can paint or stain the coasters before adding the flowers. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Choosing & Arranging the Flowers
This is where the fun begins! Select your pressed flowers and arrange them on the coaster. Don’t glue them down just yet—play around with different layouts until you find one you love.
Best Flowers to Use:
- Pansies, daisies, violas, ferns, and baby’s breath work well because they’re naturally thin.
- Larger flowers like roses may need to be pressed for longer or split into thinner layers before use.
Pro Tip: Mix flowers with pressed leaves for a whimsical, botanical look!
Step 3: Sealing with Mod Podge or Resin
Now it’s time to secure your flowers. You have two main options: Mod Podge or resin.
Option 1: Using Mod Podge (Matte or Glossy Finish)
- Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the wooden coaster using a paintbrush.
- Carefully place the pressed flowers on the wet Mod Podge using tweezers.
- Once positioned, gently press them down to remove air bubbles.
- Let it dry for about 15-20 minutes, then apply another layer of Mod Podge over the flowers.
- Apply 2-3 additional layers, letting each one dry in between.
- After 24 hours, seal with clear acrylic spray for extra protection.
Option 2: Using Resin (Durable, Glass-Like Finish)
- Mix resin according to the instructions (usually a 2:1 ratio of resin to hardener).
- Pour a thin layer over the coaster and flowers.
- Use a toothpick or heat gun to remove any air bubbles.
- Let the resin cure for at least 24 hours in a dust-free space.
Pro Tip: Resin gives a high-gloss, professional finish, but if you prefer a more natural look, Mod Podge is the way to go!
Step 4: Let It Dry Completely
Patience is key! Allow your coasters to dry fully before using them. Mod Podge dries faster (within hours), while resin takes at least a full day to cure completely.
Step 5: Add a Protective Seal (Optional)
If you used Mod Podge, a clear acrylic spray sealer will add an extra layer of waterproofing. This isn’t necessary for resin-finished coasters.
Tips for Best Results
✔ Press Your Own Flowers – Want to press your own flowers? Place them between parchment paper inside a heavy book for 1-2 weeks, or use a microwave flower press for faster results!
✔ Avoid Bubbles in Resin – Use a heat gun, hairdryer, or toothpick to remove bubbles before the resin hardens.
✔ Work in a Dust-Free Area – This prevents dust or debris from getting stuck in the resin.
✔ Experiment with Designs – Try layering flowers, using a solid painted background, or adding gold leaf accents for a luxe look.
Creative Variations
Want to take your DIY coasters up a notch? Try these fun variations:
Gold Foil Touches – Add tiny flakes of gold leaf before sealing for an elegant aesthetic.
Seasonal Coasters – Use pressed leaves for a cozy autumn vibe or bright flowers for a summer feel.
Personalized Designs – Add initials, quotes, or small printed photos under the resin for a unique gift idea.
Final Thoughts & Encouragement
Crafting is all about creativity and fun, so don’t stress about perfection! Each coaster will have its own unique charm, making them a truly special piece for your home.
Not only do these DIY pressed flower coasters make a beautiful home decor item, but they also serve as thoughtful, handmade gifts. Whether for a birthday, Mother’s Day, or housewarming, they are sure to impress!
So, grab your supplies, get creative, and start crafting your own floral masterpieces today. Don’t forget to share your finished coasters on social media and tag me—I’d love to see what you create!
More DIY Inspiration
Looking for more fun DIY projects? Check out:
Romantic Bath Bombs
Happy crafting!
