Abstract: An aesthetic coaster (which can also perform other conventional functions, such as paper weights, plant pot bases, art objects, etc.), and a method of making such a coaster, allow the production of a good quality coaster at a reasonable cost. A plastic coaster body having an aesthetic top surface and a recessed bottom surface is made by injection molding the plastic coaster body, then forming a micro layer of metal (e.g. aluminum) on at least the top surface of the plastic coaster body, and then coating at least the metal micro layer on the top surface with a low temperature catalytic lacquer that produces an imitation chrome, silver, brass, platinum, copper, bronze, or gold color. An insert (e.g. of mild steel) having a density significantly greater than the density of the plastic coaster body is inserted into a recess in the bottom surface and substantially permanently adhered within the recess. The insert and recess are covered with a covering (e.g. felt) which will not scratch furniture surfaces.