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September 8th, 2025
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Starquix are experts on all things printed
and
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Seven Killer Custom Coasters For Imprint
A True Ninja Doesn't Make A Splash At All..” —John Green
Drink coasters aren’t sexy and exciting like wine glasses… And they’re not striking or epic like whiskey glasses…
However, soda and booze coasters are pretty badass in their own right ;)
Trained Assassins Who Know Their Role
Here’s their mindset —
- Protect bar-tops and tabletops from water rings & drink condensation
- Keep drinks from sliding and falling over
- Advertise your brand logo wherever drinks are served
For All Types of Businesses
If you’re not an alcohol or drink-related business, no worries! They’re still a killer way to promote your brand.
Coasters have a way of sneaking into people’s homes and work offices
Why?Because drink stains and condensation are a pain in the ass at home too ;)
Everyday people love them because —
- They protect furniture, carpets and countertops
- Coasters can be used in cars to preserve consoles
- They’re great for special occasions like weddings and dinners
Whether you’re a business that serves alcoholic beverages, or a company looking to advertise on custom coasters, stick around!
This article will show you the best coasters for imprint, and why they’re appealing!
But first, let’s take a really quick look into the past…
A Quick History of Drink Coasters
Drink Coasters haven’t always been so submissive! They used to like it on top ;) In the early 1800s, coasters were made of felt and put on top of beer glasses. Why on top? To keep bugs, dirt and debris out. Yeah, those were fun times!
Fast forward to the late 1800s, and coasters evolved into “beer mats” made of sturdy pulp.
That’s when bars, breweries and restaurant owners realized the coaster’s true potential.
They were a cheap, simple way to protect tabletops and promote their brand.
And that’s when custom promo coasters were born!
Coasters have evolved over the years…
They are made from all kinds of materials and come in a plethora of shapes and customization options.
If you’re not incorporating these promo ninjas into your marketing arsenal, it’s about that time.
Pulpboard & Paperboard Coasters
The first true coasters were made of pulpwood! They radiate coolness and nostalgia no other coasters can claim. To this day, they’re still the preferred coasters for beer mugs ;)
These are by far the most popular coasters for bars. Why? They’re pretty, durable, absorbent and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s easy to print on them with colored ink!
But what’s the difference between pulpboard and paperboard?
- One is made of crushed wood pulp, the other is made of layers of paper.
- Pulpwood coasters are sturdy with a premium feel and reusable. They typically come in a thickness of 1 - 2 mm and are fairly lightweight.
- Paperboard coasters come in the same thickness options. They can be reusable too, but tend to wear out faster.
Pulpboard picks
If you’re looking for custom pulpboard coasters in bulk for your bar or hotel, this one is my top pick.
If round isn’t your thing, here are some custom square pulpboard coasters for branding —perfect for pubs and restaurants.
Paperboard Picks
If a thinner look and more brilliant print job appeal to you, snag these personalized paperboard coasters in bulk.
Here are some cool round paper coasters for corporate events, fundraisers and giveaways.
Wooden Coasters
Solid, Classy & Humble
It’s hard to look amazing without seeming pretentious. But wooden coasters have mastered the art! Their classic wooden appearance makes them attractive yet humble!
That’s why you see them in smaller bars and cafes, engraved & imprinted with brand logos.
But they’re not all for looks. Like good little ninjas, wood coasters are absorbent and do a good job protecting tabletops from drink damage.
To be honest, they’re not the most absorbent material But serviceable in that area, nonetheless! Here are my favorite wooden coasters for brand advertising —
- I know, I know…technically bamboo is a grass, but… Check out this customizable bamboo coaster with your logo laser engraved. It has a wood grain appearance and is eco-friendly.
- Or if you prefer square bamboo coasters for wine glasses, those are spot-on.
- For a classy, rural appeal take a look at this natural wooden coaster for imprint. It’s shaped like the inside of a tree with circles.
- And here’s a hybrid wooden promo drink coaster with a cool surprise. They boast a little marble, but it’s mostly wood!
Stone & Marble Coasters
Upscale and In-Style
The most beautiful custom drink coasters are made of stone, which is why they’re a favorite for special occasions.
They’re perfect for:
- Upscale bars, hotels and restaurants
- Housewarming drinkware and decor
- Corporate gifting and seasonal giveaways
You may be wondering… What’s the difference between stone and marble?
Technically, they’re both stone. But marble is softer, heavier and a little more elegant.
There are also custom “ceramic” stone coasters for branding. But keep in mind that ceramic coasters are made of clay, not stone, and chip more easily.
Stone coasters are made of natural sandstone and are:
- A little more absorbent
- Slightly Lighter
- More heat resistant
Marble coasters are a little different:
- They’re smoother and softer in appearance
- Heavier than stone coasters
- Each one has a unique makeup —no two coasters look the same
If you’re looking for custom stone coasters you can order in bulk for your bar, that link is a step in the right direction. Keep in mind that they make awesome whiskey glass coasters.
And here are some of the best promotional marble coasters for imprint
For those wanting a stone look and feel, without the extra price, these personalized ceramic coasters are a great option to save budget.
Cork Coasters
Kings of Absorption
The badass thing about cork coasters is their ability to soak up water rings before they start. Cork is very porous and stops water drops before they pool.
The second coolest thing about custom cork coasters is they look pretty, even though they’re pretty cheap ;)
But don’t let the affordable price fool you —they’re reusable and can last for several years.
Cork also naturally retains temperature —so they keep beer, liquor and soda cold —plus tea or coffee hot.
They’re perfect for bars, but make great giveaway items for all businesses.
If you’re ready to look at some customizable cork coasters for your home or brand, check those out. And if you want to snag some custom square-shaped cork coasters, give these a look.
For celebrations like weddings or themed corporate events, you may want some customizable full-color cork coasters to get the party going.
Glass Coasters
Subtle & Striking
If you’re just looking for a cheap and simple way to protect tabletops from water rings and promote your brand, glass is overkill.
Seriously, if you’re a minimalist, there’s no need to come off the extra budget!
But…I say, BUT…
If you’re looking to turn up the ambiance and add a flare of elegance to your home or establishment, custom glass coasters are a perfect fit.
Glass coasters stray from the low-key ways of the ninja ;) They’re a little flashy, but what the hell… If you have the cheese in your budget to splurge on the fancy stuff, it sets you apart from the competition.
Custom glass coasters are great for upscale home bars and living room tables. And perfect for fancy hotels and restaurants. Needless to say, they’re a favorite coaster for wine and expensive liquor drinks!
Check out this set of beveled glass coasters for imprint —they’re beautiful and more affordable in bulk.
If you want individual square glass coasters for branding, that link is your huckleberry.
Or just keep it simple and elegant with these round glass drink coasters for imprint.
Okay, those are the main types of coasters, but… I’m not quite done yet ;)
Here are two honorable mentions that didn’t make my list of top promo coasters —
Felt Coasters
Soft, Subtle & Sustainable
I kept my list to “non-fabric” coasters, but there’s no denying felt. They’re moisture-wicking, and have the ability to muffle the sound of glasses being set down. Quiet, like a ninja, indeed!
They’re also made of sustainable material —extra cool points!
Check out these customizable felt coasters, they’re pretty awesome.
Steel Coasters
Sturdy & Epic
These coasters lock in the temperature of ice-cold beer and keep shots of whiskey fresh. And they look like a boss doing it.
They’re not the most absorbent, but lots of them come with cork backing to help with moisture.
Steel coasters are great for restaurants with a professional, yet blue-collar image.
Check out these square-shaped steel coasters for branding, if you have a hankering for some ;)
Well, it’s almost time to wrap up this article, and let you ponder the idea of advertising on coasters.
First, it’s only fair to answer some questions about custom drink coasters!
FAQ About Custom Coasters
-
What are the cheapest options for drink coasters?
Paper and pulpboard coasters are the least expensive. Cork coasters are pretty cheap too. They’re even cheaper in bulk!
-
How many kinds of custom shapes can you order?
The most common shapes for coasters are round, square, and octagonal. But with technology today, you can customize the shape to meet your creative needs.
For example, if you’re a pet shop you can have coasters shaped like animals. Or if you’re a sports team, maybe it’s shaped like a soccer ball or football.
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What kinds of coasters are good for the environment?
Bamboo and felt coasters are both biodegradable and help reduce the landfill. If you’re looking for a way to give back to mother-earth, roll with them for your bar or hotel.
-
How are personalized coasters imprinted?
They can be —
- Imprinted with ink
- Engraved
- Debossed
- Etched
-
What are the best drink coasters for trade shows and promo events?
If you’re coming in hot with a low budget, I recommend cork, pulpwood or wooden coasters. If the big-budget fairy visited you, then stone coasters like marble are a nice way to impress people and other brands.
FINAL
THOUGHTS
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Well, gang, I hope you’re a little less foggy about why custom drink coasters are a cool and effective way to advertise your brand.
True ninjas of the promo realm, ready to slowly and methodically build brand identity and awareness. Nothing flashy, though ;)
Remember, they’re not going to jump right out at people and scream, “Hey I’m sexy!” like a cherry-red Ferrari…
But they certainly are a killer way to keep tabletops protected and promote your brand ;)
Take all the goodies I gave you in this article, and make custom coasters part of your promotional arsenal —your way!
Starquix are experts on all things printed
and
promotional. Let our team help you select awesome promotional swag today!
September 8th, 2025
6 Minute Read
SHARE:
