Perk up your patio set with summer coasters

Protect your deck with these funky accessories

By Tara Nolan

Sunshine and warm weather herald the onset of outdoor patio season — lazy days of lounging in deck chairs and enjoying backyard BBQ parties. What other time of year could you get away with using those wild and colourful plastic cups to hold your fruity summer cocktails?

Protect your patio table or freshly painted deck from the stain rings created by these icy beverages with coasters you created on your computer.

Supplies

photo paper or sturdy cardstock
scissors
printer
craft glue (optional)
self-laminating sheets or adhesive vinyl (optional)
cork or shallow flower saucers (optional)

Step 1: Select a design

Decide if you want your coasters to match your outdoor décor, or opt for daring, vibrant images. We chose a collection of bright flowers for one set and a blazing sun for the other.

Browse through the Clip Art files provided in Word, or select images from your own photo gallery. Get your kids involved by creating a special set with them. They can choose from personal artwork, favourite cartoons, etc.

Step 2: Size your images

Click here for Microsoft Home Magazine’s coaster template, save the file to your desktop, and then open the template in Word. Place your images in each circle using the directions on the template sheet. If you don’t use the template, you should know that the standard coaster size is 4”x 4”.

Cut out scenes from printed photos into squares or circles. Or import scanned images into Word and size accordingly.

Insert your images into the template provided.

Cut out coasters and laminate to protect them.

Glue cork to bottom or place in flower pot saucer.

Step 3: Print, cut and laminate

Print the images in colour on high-quality paper; then trim. Laminating your coasters will protect them from the elements and spills. Office supply stores generally provide this quick and inexpensive service. You can also do it yourself by purchasing self-laminating sheets or adhesive vinyl. Make sure to cover both sides.

Step 4: Make your coasters wind-resistant

Prevent your new coasters from flying away on a windy day. Glue them to pieces of cork that are measured to the same size. For a summery alternative, we glued our coasters to the inside of shallow flowerpot saucers.

You’re now ready to impress your guests. Cheers!

All styling and photography by Julie Stoyka of Zariel Creative