How to make coasters with wood beads

Decorated wood coasters add a nice touch to a patio table or an indoor side table, and this tutorial brings a bit of spring to things. Bead sizes vary and smaller ones are fine. Avoid very large beads, as they will raise the coaster from the surface and, when a glass is placed on it, the glue seal may break under the pressure.

Note that these coasters are not heat-resistant and are water-resistant only when a sealant is applied to the surface. Since sealants are clear, the original color will not be muted. Consider sealing the beads as well if they are not polished.

Materials
- Wood circle, at least 5 inches in diameter
- Acrylic craft paint, blue and white
- Artist’s paintbrush
- Paint palette
- Small bowl
- Medium-sized wood beads
- Clear fishing line (monofilament)
- Scissors
- Hot-glue gun
- Hot glue

Step 1. Mix the white and blue paint on the palette, then apply it to the surface of the wood circle. Let it dry.

Step 2. Place some beads in the bowl. String the beads on the monofilament until the length equals the circle’s circumference. Gently curl the beads around the outside rim of the circle. If the length is too short, add beads one at a time until the length fits.

Step 3. Cut the monofilament, leaving 3 inches of it at each end of the bead strand. Tie the monofilament ends together in a double knot, then trim off all but 1 inch of the excess. Feed the uncut excess through the beads.

Step 4. Drape the beads around the circle’s perimeter. Hot glue the rim 2 inches at a time, and press the beads in place. Let them dry.