A Simple DIY Transforms Broken Mugs Into Cozy Coasters

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Even if you have a cabinet full of mugs, there's typically one that's your favorite. Perhaps it's the perfect size and shape, or has a picture or saying that always brightens your mood. If you accidentally drop it, it can seem pointless to keep the remains. Before you go tossing the pieces into the garbage, though, you should know that there are plenty of ways to upcycle old coffee and tea mugs, including the broken ones. A broken mug can be turned into adorable décor, for example. In fact, it's even possible to craft a coaster out of it.

We're not recommending you go and smash drinkware that you still enjoy. Look for a mug that's already chipped or cracked, or perhaps there's a handle-less one hiding in the back of your cabinet you can use. If you fall in love with this DIY, you could also explore thrift stores for mugs with fun colors, designs, or text. 

You will also need a few additional supplies for this coaster project. For the base, purchase or cut a couple of round or square wooden pieces that resemble the look of a coaster. Alternatively, you can purchase some that already have a protective bottom and are designed for use under warm drinks, such as these 4-Inch Square Unfinished Wood Coasters. You will also need multisurface adhesive and tile grout.

You'll be using small pieces of glass to create your uniquely customized coasters. If your mug is only slightly broken or chipped, you'll have to very carefully break it up the rest of the way with glass cutters. You should wear safety glasses and protective gloves while doing this. When breaking your mug, be mindful of any patterns on it that you'd like to display on your coaster because you'll want to keep them intact. After your mug is broken, take one of your coaster bases and set up your design on it, covering its entirety. If you only have one coaster base, you can trace the base on a sheet of paper and place your design there instead. You can use any configuration you like, but consider using simple patterns for a stunning look.

Once you're happy with your design, add glue to an empty coaster base and transfer the design over. After the glue has dried, apply tile grout to the front of the coaster, filling in the gaps. Let it sit for 10 minutes or so, then use a damp cloth to wipe the grout off the top. Set it aside to dry for a few hours, then wipe it again with the damp cloth. Repeat the wiping process twice more, allowing it to dry between wipes.

When you're finished, you'll have a mosaic coaster that reminds you of your cherished mug. To step up the project, you can trace a design (like a butterfly) onto the base before adding the glass. You'd then want to carefully fill in the design with colorful pieces so that it stands out — using a single, neutral color everywhere else.