Kim Saberton gives you some handmade stocking filler ideas for the holiday season.

That time of year is almost here again folks! If you’re anything like me that means hitting the panic stations just thinking about the list of friends, family and co-workers you’d like to find the perfect gift for. But fear not! I’ve got a few DIY Xmas stocking filler ideas that radiate heartfelt and hand made charm, and won’t burn a hole in your wallet. So watch this space in the lead up to Christmas, as I show you how to knock over some easy gifts which you can add to your Christmas crafternoon to do list.

This cork coaster set is super easy to make and gives you room to flex your creative muscle and designer eye. For my set I’ve got with a super simple nautical stripe theme, but you can create any kind of stencil and colour theme you wish.

What you will need

– a set of cork coasters, or cork squares
– acrylic paints
– masking tape (or other lightly adhesive tape so as to not damage any paintwork. I’ve used plumber’s tape for extra caution.)
– acrylic spray or shellac finish and sealer.
– felt
– PVA glue
– paintbrushes

All of these materials can be found at craft supply stores such as Bunnings and Eckersleys.

First up all you need to do is paint your coaster! Be sure to get the edges and paint evenly. It’s also a really good idea to make sure you paint the flat colour the lightest colour of your design, which in my case is white.

Now carefully cut and place strips of tape where you would like to block out your second colour. A stripe theme using verticals, horizontals and diagonals can be simple clean design and is also really easy to lay out. Make sure your tape wraps over the edge of the coaster and underneath.

Now carefully apply your second colour. You will need to do 2-3 coats, allowing drying time in between each coat. This will ensure you don’t have brush strokes and attain a smooth finish. Allow for it to completely dry. If you find this is taking too long you can quicken the drying time using a hairdryer on a low setting and a safe distance from the surface of the cork.

Carefully remove tape to reveal your design. All that is left now is to varnish! Lightly spray the clear acrylic sealant on the surface of your design, keeping the can about 20 cm from the coaster surface. Make sure you carefully read the instructions on the acrylic spray product you purchase, and use it in a well ventilated area. You may need to apply two coats of acrylic spray to ensure you seal the paint well.

For a little extra finesse, cut a piece of felt to the size of your coaster square. Use the PVA glue to attach it to the bottom of the coaster and allow to dry. This step isn’t necessary, but is a good way to ensure your coasters are non-slip.

Allow to dry fully and voila! You’ve just DIYed your own designy coaster set! Bundle and tie your set up with ribbon and you’ve got a simple gift for every beer, coffee and tea drinker in your family.