Kwanzaa Coasters You Can Make with a Brother Sublimation Printer

Kwanzaa is a beautiful week-long celebration of culture, community, and togetherness—observed each year from December 26 through January 1. Whether you celebrate in your home or you’re simply looking for a thoughtful, meaningful project to make and gift, custom coasters are a simple way to add intention to the table.

That’s why we’re featuring our Kwanzaa coaster designs you can make with a Brother sublimation printer—bright, durable, and perfect for family gatherings, host gifts, and cozy cups of cocoa (or tea!) during the season.

What makes Kwanzaa designs special?

Kwanzaa is often represented with the colors red, black, and green, and symbols that reflect unity, heritage, and shared values. Many families also focus on the Nguzo Saba (the Seven Principles):
Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), Imani (Faith).

Our coaster designs are created to feel celebratory and respectful—so they look lovely on a holiday table and carry meaning beyond the day.

Supplies you’ll want on hand

Here’s what you’ll typically need to make sublimation coasters:

• Brother sublimation printer + sublimation ink

• Sublimation paper

• Heat press (flat press works great)

• Heat-resistant tape

• White polyester thread

• 100% white polyester rope

Want to see these Kwanzaa coasters come together step by step? Watch our 3 Things Live episode where Fern and Kris walk you through exactly how they made them—from printing to pressing and all the little tips in between. You can find the video linked below so you can craft right along with us! (Starts at 36:46)

Design ideas for a gorgeous Kwanzaa set

If you’re making multiple coasters, try these fun set themes:

• One coaster for each of the Seven Principles

• A mix of symbols + patterns (bold red/black/green geometric prints)

• “Heri Za Kwanzaa” greeting coaster + coordinating accent designs

• A “table set” collection: 4–6 coasters that all coordinate but aren’t identical

A meaningful make for the season

We love projects that are both beautiful and purposeful—and Kwanzaa coasters are exactly that. They’re a small touch that can elevate a gathering, create a conversation moment, or become a heartfelt handmade gift that feels personal without being complicated.

If you’re ready to create yours, our Kwanzaa coaster designs are made specifically with sublimation success in mind—so you can print, press, and celebrate with confidence using your Brother sublimation printer.