DIY Tree Coasters

I love trees because they remind me of being grounded to Mother Earth. My spine, like tree roots are planted firmly in the ground and branches spread high into the sky. Trees connect me to nature, to the birds, and to everything that IS Mother Earth.

My friend sent me a picture of her beautiful Easter table. On the table sat a wooden serving piece that looked like it was freshly cut from a tree trunk.  The Mother Earth and crafter in me immediately thought DIY!

A week later my mother and I saw someone cutting down a tree in their backyard. I was saddened by the end of the tree's life, but realized I could continue the life of the tree by turning pieces of it into trivets or coasters. I took several sizes of tree branches to later cut them into slices.

       You will need:

A slice of a tree branch, sand paper, a wet rag, paint brushes, polyurethane, a paint can opener, and a beautiful sunny day. 

I choose a clear matte finish stain because I want the natural wood color exposed without a glossy finish.

Water travels through the roots and branches nourishing it along the way and reaching the leaves. If the slice of tree is fresh like mine you may notice the dampness. If this is the case, leave it to dry in the sun for a few days.

Step 1: Sand the slice to smooth out any ridges or pieces of stray wood.

Step 2: With a damp reusable rag, wipe down the piece to remove wood dust or dirt and then let dry. Be careful not to soak the wood.

Step 3: Paint on the polyurethane in even strokes to coat and seal the tree slice. This will prevent the decaying process and preserve the tree slice.

Make sure to get around the piece. I generously applied polyurethane by dabbing a wet brush along the sides, wiping away any seepage onto the front of back.

Step 4: Let sit to dry in the sun. Read the polyurethane instructions to determine the time needed to dry.

 If you choose a tinted polyurethane do not allow the sides to dry with excess. 

The finished product: 

The finished project serves as great coaster, trivet, serving piece, or centerpiece.

It brings me happiness to know the same tree I saw standing tall has now been transformed into a table coaster in my home. My own piece of Mother Earth.