PRETTY COASTERS

Coasters painted with simple patterns add a decorative touch when placed on a table. The coasters can be fashioned from scraps of wood. Firstly, a base colour of emulsion is applied to the surface, ensuring the edges are also covered. Once dried, a second coat can be added if needed. A stencil is made using thick greaseproof or tracing paper. This should be the same size as the dimensions of the tile and thick enough so the paint will not seep through. A design is marked in pencil and cut with a craft knife where the contrasting paint will be applied. Geometric shapes work best. The stencil is taped to the coaster and held in place while a medium-sized, hard or stencil brush is used to dab or stipple the paint onto the areas of negative space. Varnish is applied to finish. A similar result can be achieved with a potato or sponge stamp.