Custom Beer Coasters for Breweries: Smart, Simple Branding
You might not think much about the coaster under your pint—but your customers do. It’s one of the first things they touch when they sit down and one of the last things they see when they leave.
Done right, custom beer coasters can quietly show off your brand, spark a laugh, or land in someone’s Instagram story without even trying. They're small, sure—but they carry weight.
If you're kicking around ideas for your own, custom coasters are an easy way to add personality to your pour, without overthinking it.
What Makes Beer Coasters More Than Just Table Decor
Beer coasters have been around since the 1800s (true story), but they’ve evolved into something way cooler than drink mats.
Today’s branded bar coasters:
- Make your logo part of every customer’s table conversation
- Slide into social media shots and product photography—free promo
- Offer limited-edition runs that feel collectible
- Help tell your brewery’s story without anyone saying a word
Some breweries even rotate coasters seasonally—different artwork or slogans for different beers. Others turn them into trivia cards, beer pairing tips, or promo tokens (“Bring this coaster back for $1 off your next pint”).
It's packaging, it’s promotion, it’s personality—all in one square (or circle).
How Breweries Are Using Coasters Creatively
Let’s look at some real-world ways coasters are earning their place in brewery life:
1. Limited Series Collectibles
A Nashville brewery created four rotating coaster designs featuring their can artwork. Every time a new seasonal beer launched, so did its coaster. Locals started collecting them like trading cards.
2. QR Codes to Build Community
A small coastal brewery used QR codes on the back of coasters to link to:
- A Spotify playlist they play in the taproom
- A form for joining their Mug Club
- Behind-the-scenes brew day content
It made something simple feel extra personal—and customers kept the coasters for later.
3. Coasters as Mini-Menu Extensions
A food-truck-friendly brewery prints their snack pairings on coasters. “Pairs well with pretzel bites” isn’t just helpful—it starts a conversation.
Tips for Designing Beer Coasters That Actually Work
If you’re diving into design, don’t overthink it. Here’s what makes a great coaster custom setup:
Choose a Format That Fits
- Round (3.5” or 4”): Classic, familiar, works for any taproom
- Square: Edgy and modern, gives more corner real estate
- Die-cut: Want your mascot or logo shape? That’s doable too
Keep Your Message Tight
Too much info = nobody reads it. Stick to 1–2 key elements:
- Logo or brewery name
- A fun slogan, beer name, or pairing tip
- QR code only if it’s useful (and scannable)
Go Bold With Artwork
- High-contrast designs pop under low bar lighting
- Use your brand colors consistently
- Keep fonts large enough to be read from across the table
Bonus move: print different backs for the same front. One side keeps the brand consistent, the other rotates for seasonal updates or trivia.
Where Custom Coasters Really Earn Their Keep
Custom beer coasters aren’t just useful—they’re strategic. Here's where they shine:
| Use Case | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Taproom tables | Every pour comes with a branding moment |
| Takeout orders | Toss one in every bag for subtle marketing |
| Local collabs | Partner with a nearby artist or vendor on a limited coaster drop |
| Tasting flights | Label each beer in a sampler with a mini coaster |
| Event giveaways | Coasters pack flat, hand out easy, and are more interesting than a flyer |
Thinking About Creating Your Own Coasters?
If your brain’s already spinning with coaster ideas—like trivia prompts, seasonal art swaps, or ways to make your next taproom event a little more memorable—you’re not alone. Tons of breweries use coasters as low-key branding tools that do more than just keep tables dry.
If you’re curious about what’s possible (materials, shapes, weird-but-cool design formats), take a look at our custom coasters. It’s a good spot to see what other breweries are doing and maybe sketch out your own take.
No pressure. Just some solid ideas, if and when you’re ready to run with it.
FAQs
What’s the best material for beer coasters?
Pulpboard is the go-to—absorbs moisture, prints well, and keeps drinks from sliding. Cork is another option if you’re looking for something heavier and reusable.
How much info can I fit on a coaster?
Not a lot—and that’s a good thing. Stick to your logo, one core message or feature, and optional details on the back (like a QR code or promo).
Are custom coasters just for bars and taprooms?
Not at all. Breweries use them in merch bundles, event booths, tastings, and even as product inserts with retail orders.
What’s a smart use of a QR code on a coaster?
Link to your beer list, Instagram, events calendar, or loyalty club. Just make sure it actually gives the customer something useful.
What size works best?
Standard is 4” round or square. Want something that catches eyes? A custom die-cut can make it more memorable.
Can I use coasters for promotions or campaigns?
Absolutely. They’re great for giveaways, limited-run art drops, trivia nights, or discounts (“bring this back for $1 off”).
What file types should I use for printing?
Vector files (like .AI or .EPS) are ideal. High-res PNGs work too—just make sure they’re 300 DPI or more.
- Tags: Coasters
- Nashira Edmiston
