Custom Coasters Made Using a Pattern from xTools Creative Space

Draw a 4" x 4" rectangle and add a 0.2 degree radius  Copy and paste that rectangle and set aside. This will be the backer for the coaster.

Draw another rectangle measuring 3" x 3" and add a 0.2 degree radius.

Center both rectangles and “Subtract at overlap."  This will make the 2 rectangle become a single image.

To make the circle coaster follow the same steps as the rectangle but using the circle shape.  

Watch my video tutorial for more details.

Select the pattern from the “Shapes” panel, size it to 3" and center it with the rectangle frame.

Apply a 0.029 Outline and click OK.  If you don't apply the outline the pattern will cut individual pieces and fall out of the rectangle.

Remove and delete the original pattern.

Copy and paste the outline you just made and set it aside for now, you can use that to make the circle coaster.

“Unite” the outline pattern and the rectangle frame.

You can cut the coaster without the backer and it looks great, especially with thicker wood, such as, 5mm cherry.

I choose to cut the coasters using both 3mm basswood and walnut and cut the backs from 2mm basswood.

Cut 2 each from each color wood and save the scraps, you can use them to make interesting designs.

I painted the back piece of the coaster with metallic paint (gold, blue, purple, and pink).  Once dry I sealed it with mod podge.  Use any sealer of your choice.

Apply wood glue to the back of the top piece of the coaster and apply it to the base.  Clamp in place and let dry.

Now it's time to make your pattern.  Take the scraps from the opposite wood and glue in place to create your pattern.  I chose to make each coaster different, you could make them the same if you wish.

The circle coaster I filled each of the coasters with the opposite wood to give a inlaid wood effect.

I sealed the coasters with boiled linseed oil.  Use what you want to seal the wood.

Enjoy your coasters.