DIY Father's Day Photo Coasters with Mod Podge Resin
Looking for a meaningful Father’s Day gift (or gift for anyone, really) that’s actually cute and useful? These DIY Father’s Day photo coasters are one of my favorite easy craft projects and they’re surprisingly simple to make with Mod Podge Resin and wood resin pouring coasters from Plaid Crafts.
The best part? Using your favorite Persnickety Box photos turns these coasters into sweet little keepsakes Dad, Grandpa, Husband will actually love using every day. Think funny kid moments, family vacation snapshots, or those classic “dad and me” photos that deserve more than just sitting on your phone camera roll.
Fun with Mod Podge Resin
I’m sure you have heard of Mod podge, the glue, sealer and finish all in one. But I was new to their resin products and I have to say, I love it just as much as the original!
We’ve made many projects using Mod Podge with Persnickety Box photos. It was great to adhere photos to wood blocks making fun home decor, nursery blocks, or in creating sparkly glitter prints!
The Photos
Not all photo prints are created equal when it comes to resin projects. Trust me, nobody wants bubbling, bleeding, or weird discoloration after all that crafting effort.
That’s why I love using Persnickety Box prints for this project:
They’re the perfect size for these wood coasters
The color quality is gorgeous (even under resin!)
They’re archival-quality photos
They don’t use traditional ink, so you won’t get bleeding or bubbling when adding resin
Basically, they hold up beautifully and make the finished coasters look super polished and professional.
How to Make A Photo Wood Block
DIY Photo Coaster Supplies:
- Wood Resin Pouring Coasters from Plaid Crafts
- Mod Podge Resin, Disposable Cups, Stirring Stick, Butane Torch or Lighter, Gloves.
- Persnickety Box Photo Prints
- Scissors
- Protective Craft Surface
- Beads, Glitter, Sprinkles, or Any Other Resin Additives
How to Make DIY Photo Coasters with Mod Podge Resin
Step 1: Mix the Mod Podge Resin
Follow the instructions on the Mod Podge Resin packaging to mix equal parts resin and hardener. Stir slowly to help minimize bubbles. Set aside while you prep your photos to allow time for any bubbles in the resin to leave the mixture.
Step 2: Trim Your Photos
Start by trimming your photos to fit inside the coaster shape. Use one or cut out multiple for a “scrapbooked look”. The Persnickety Box prints fit beautifully and wont bubble or bleed under the resin.
Step 3: Place Your Photos and Any Additives
Using a brush, apply a thin layer of the Mod Podge Resin to the wood coaster surface. Carefully place your photo on top and smooth out any air bubbles. This allows everything to be held in place a bit better before pouring the resin. I also added some letter beads in my coasters. (Whatever you add, be sure it is not taller than the lip of the coaster to allow your mug or glass to sit flat on it’s surface).
Step 4: Pour the Resin
Slowly pour the resin over each coaster until the photo is fully covered. Use a stir stick to gently spread the resin to the edges. Repeat in small pours to ensure no spillage over the lip of the coaster. Use a lighter or butane torch quickly over the surface of the wet resin to eliminate bubbles.
One of my favorite things about this project is how the resin makes the photos look extra vibrant and glossy. The color quality from Persnickety Box seriously shines through here.
Step 5: Let Them Cure
Leave the coasters on a flat surface to cure completely according to the resin instructions. Once dry, they’ll have a smooth, glass-like finish that looks so fancy for such an easy DIY.
A Father’s Day Gift He’ll Actually Use
These photo coasters make such a thoughtful handmade Father’s Day gift because they’re personal without feeling overly complicated or cheesy. Plus, every time Dad sets down his morning coffee, he gets a little reminder of his favorite people.
And honestly? They look cute enough that you might end up making a second set for yourself too.
If you try this project, definitely use your favorite Persnickety Box prints —> the quality really makes all the difference for resin crafts like this. And don’t forget to check out the amazing crafting supplies from Plaid Crafts and Mod Podge for even more creative project ideas!
Swipe Your Photos
Ordering prints is easy with the Persnickety Box App! Simply swipe 30 photos each month from your mobile device into a box. Close boxes when you’re ready and just like that- prints are delivered to your door in a keepsake story box, ready to use.
Not a member? Get 50% off your first box today with code: prints (currently available in the USA)