Categories: DIYFeaturedGeekMom

DIY 'Doctor Who' Tile Coaster

Photo: Kelly Knox

When I spotted this ingenious coaster DIY on the Sharpie blog, I just had to make it for myself—with a geeky twist, of course! Sharpies and alcohol turn the ink into a gorgeous, galactic mix. Pick up a few inexpensive tiles from the home improvement store, grab some Sharpies, and you’re ready to get started on your one-of-a-kind Doctor Who tile coaster.

What You Need

  • Ceramic tiles
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Black, blue, and purple Sharpies
  • White acrylic paint
  • Painter’s tape
  • Eye dropper
  • Clear acrylic paint / varnish
  • Felt (optional)
  • Paint brush
  • Scissors
  • Glue (optional)

Get Started!

Begin by cutting and sticking the blue painter’s tape to make a TARDIS shape anywhere on the tile.

Photo: Kelly Knox

Next, use the black, blue, and purple Sharpies to draw outer space all over the tile. Be sure to cover the edges of the painter’s tape for a clear TARDIS shape.

Photo: Kelly Knox

Next, use the eye dropper to drip the rubbing alcohol on the Sharpie ink. The ink will run, blend, and form interesting patterns. You can move the tile slightly to help it mix together.

Photo: Kelly Knox

Allow the tile to dry completely.

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Next, use the paint brush to splatter stars on the tile. Allow the paint to dry completely. (If there is still wet rubbing alcohol on the tile, it can create a glow effect with the white paint splatter.)

Photo: Kelly Knox

When the ink and paint are completely dry, remove the painter’s tape.

Next, spray the tile with clear acrylic paint or varnish to seal the ink.

Photo: Kelly Knox

Allow the clear acrylic paint to dry completely, and your coaster is complete! Feel free to add a felt backing to protect your coffee table from accidental scratches.

Photo: Kelly Knox
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This post was last modified on December 3, 2017 12:35 am

Kelly Knox

Kelly Knox is a freelance writer in Seattle, WA. She also writes for StarWars.com, Marvel.com, Geek & Sundry, and Nerdist.

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