In this instructable, simple, useful coasters are made out of free materials, generally. I have lots of papers on hand and the cardboard is gathered from used boxes, available just about everywhere. Good way to recylce the cardboard. Gather some cardboard pieces, here are the end flaps from regular cardboard boxes.

Step 1: Make Blanks Out of Cardboard

Cardboard pieces glued together in stacks of three each.

Step 2: Cut Pieces Out

Cardboard pieces after being cut out on bandsaw. Make them the size you want, I drew circles of 4 and one quarter inch, and the inside circle 5/8 inch smaller. Whatever works for you.

Step 3: Gluing Cut Out Pieces Together.

Pieces glued together. Just use white glue (or hot glue), weigh down, and wait a while.

Step 4: Decorate Plain Coasters

Starting to decorate: use your imagination in decorating your coasters. Paint, photographs (make sure ink is permanent, not ink jet type), magazine pictures, construction paper, scrapbook paper, etc.

Step 5: Additional Decoration

A pumpkin design is selected for this coaster

Step 6: Varnish Coasters

Several coats of an acrylic varish is used to enhance and seal the coasters. This step will protect them from moisture in limited amounts.

Step 7: Cut Circles of Paper Inserts

For additional moisture absorption, I cut out circles of napkins and or paper towels. These can be used if it is particularly humid, and will protect coasters from water damage. And they are easily replaced.

Step 8: Final Product

Completed coasters, ready to use.

Introduction: Making Cheap Cardboard Coasters