25 Days of DIY Christmas: Day 7 Mosaic Tile Coasters

I've been in desperate need of a set of coasters for quite some time now (sweaty nalgenes and wooden coffee tables are not bffs).  But I was determined to make my own using mosaic tiles.

I found this container of earthy-toned square tiles at Michaels (and on clearance for $4!).  This project barely put a dent into my supply.  Needless to say I have big plans for the leftovers that may or may not involve a tabletop...

Start by laying out the tiles to the coaster size of your liking and trimming a piece of corkboard to accommodate.

Then glue your little tiles right on top, making sure the smooth side faces up.  

 

 As a disclaimer, I used gorilla glue to adhear the tiles to the the cork.  Gorilla glue is a really strong glue, but it expands as it dries (you dampen whatever it is you're gluing and the glue reacts with the water).  There are a few places where the glue snuck through the cracks and are visible on the surface. I'll probably grout over the tiles in true mosaic fashion, which I had toyed with doing anyway. 

Tile adhesive, hot glue or super glue may be a better option, just be mindful of how much you're using; you don't want it sneaking up through the seams.

Gorilla glue aside, though, I think they're super cute in a very earthy way-which is very much my style when it comes to home goods. 

I did absolutely no internet research before starting this project.  If anyone knows of a better way to go about making tile coasters please share the goods.  I may make some of these as Christmas gifts and would appreciate the help!!