Ceramic Tile Coasters - SEALANT HELP!

[gumpsgirl]

Calling all crafters, I need help, big time! 

I am trying to find a way to seal Ceramic Tile Coasters that I have made.  I am not using the STAZON Ink to color them in, but I know those are pretty much self sealing when baked. 

I am decoupaging fabric and papers, as well as freehand acrylic painting.  I cannot seem to find any decent directions that provide any information for sealing.  The few directions that do have sealants listed, must have had a really thick coffee mug, because they do not work.  I have 2 different types of coffee mugs myself that I use for testing the sealants.  The first one I try, doesn't even heat the tile when boiling water is added.  The second one instantly melts the sealants, mod podge, etc. 

I will be testing Rustoleum High Heat Clear sealant tonight, which will be 24 hours after 3 coats.  As of this morning, it still smells like spray paint, and when I use my fingernail to see if it dents, it does.  So I'm not sure that this is a long term fix. 

I really enjoy making these and I don't want to find out that all I can use them for is hanging on the wall. 

Any help would be more than appreciated.

Thank you so much.
Jenny

[Onyxnox]

What about resin?

http://eti-usa.com/envirotex-lite/

[gumpsgirl]

I have been looking into resin, but am starting to think its just too expensive.  It would raise the cost of my products to be too high to remain competitive.
Thank you for the information.

[lpjab]

Jenny,

I have been having the same problem!  I want to make coasters to give as gifts, but don't want to give something that is going to melt!  Have you had any luck with any sealants?  I've tried Rust-Oleum crystal clear enamel, as well as Aleene's spray acrylic sealer, having no luck with either one.  How long do the sealants typically need to cure?  I would appreciate ANY help!!

Thanks!
Lisa

[gumpsgirl]

HI Lisa,

I have sort of found an answer to my problem.  I noticed that I can use multiple layers of Polycrylic with the proper drying time.  They do seem to hold up.  I searched google using search term:  "polycrylic tips and techniques".  Although this took me to many wood crafting forums, the information is very useful.

I hope that is helpful.

Good luck on your sealing!
Jenny