Paper Coasters

As I was fumbling through old papers and magazines, deciphering which ones I may need in the future, I thought of an idea. What can I make with this paper, rather than disposing of it? Sure, recycling it is fun, but who knows how much of it is actually recycled. I sure don't.

I figured I would craft something out of it! My siblings and parents are always using post-it notes, and other pieces of paper for coasters, but those papers usually are something important. So I made the paper coasters.

Read on.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Here is what you will need for this project:

• A stack of unwanted paper
• Circle template or a protractor
• Pencil/Pen
• Strong scissors & thin scissors
• Stapler

Step 2: Collect the Paper

The paper that you can use can be any paper. I used some pieces of magazine, newspaper, and paper from my backpack.

I gathered a stack of paper around 25 high, and I placed the glossy magazine paper on top. I put the glossy paper on top, because I felt it absorbed the liquid better than traditional computer paper or newspaper. But then again, it is your choice. If your stapler cannot handle 25 pieces, take a few pieces off so it can.

Once you have your stack, staple twice or three times around the edge, so the tracing and cutting is easier.

Step 3: Draw the Template

Get your circle template or protractor, and start tracing circles on your stack of paper.

Try to make as many as you can.

Step 4: Start Cutting

Start cutting the circles out. Take your strong scissors for this, and once you cut the circle out, take smaller scissors and trim the edges so that they are even.

You don't want to get a paper cut!

Step 5: Stapling Time

Now grab your stapler. I used four staples for each large coaster. You could use three, but then there is more of a chance for them to pull apart.

Once they are stapled they are finished! You have a paper coaster, made from unwanted paper!