Coaster Gifts

I needed to give a friend a birthday present, but I didn't want it to be something boring, like a gift card or a frame with a photo in it (everyone gives those).  I saw some inspiration here and decided to make my own version.  I created some for two friends who had birthdays around the same time of year.  One I did in color, the other in black and white.  My version is simpler than the tissue paper version, since you have less to do, and the photo still stays put and looks fantastic.

I started with plain tiles from a warehouse store, and printed out photos of my friends on plain white paper.  Then, I cut the photos to size for the tiles, and used Mod Podge to wet the back and over the front of the photo.  Once that dried, I used clear acrylic sealer (several coats) to make the coaster waterproof, and added some felt rounds to the back for a buffer.  Then, voila.  I had a beautiful, homemade gift that was unique and special to the recipient.

My friend loved it, and she couldn't wait to show her boyfriend and parents who came into town for her birthday.  So unique!