Tumbler heat press is a popular method for showcasing DIY designs on cups, known for its excellent color performance and reliable quality. It has become a favorite among creative individuals and small business owners.
However, if you don't have the right sublimation materials or a heat press machine at hand, you might want to try another cup DIY method — making epoxy tumblers.
Epoxy tumblers are stainless steel cups coated with a layer of clear epoxy resin, which creates a glossy, durable finish that seals in decorative elements like glitter, paint, or vinyl decals. These tumblers are gaining popularity as they allow you to try new projects, create something personal, and save a few bucks.
This guide covers all the materials needed for this project, how to mix and apply epoxy resin, the décor to use, and additional tips to make the process easier while achieving high‑quality results.
1. Materials and Tools You Need
Gather these essentials before you start: a stainless steel tumbler, epoxy resin, a cup turner, glitter (optional), and basic mixing supplies.
Tumbler — Preferably stainless steel as it's durable and most compatible with epoxy resin. Sublimation tumblers also work well.
Resin — Part A (resin) and Part B (hardener).
A DIY or motor cup turner — to rotate the tumbler while curing.
Silicone mixing cups and stirrers — for easy cleanup.
Measuring cups — for accurate resin ratios.
Mod Podge or Tack‑It — to adhere glitter to the tumbler.
Clear coat spray — should bond well with your tumbler's material.
Painter's tape — to protect the rim.
Heat torch or heat gun — to remove bubbles.
Wet/dry sandpaper — up to 320 grit.
Protective gear — mask and disposable gloves.
(Optional) Glitter, alcohol inks, and vinyl decals.
Your best bet is gathering all your supplies before you start working so you don't need to stop in between to get something.
2. Step‑by‑Step Guide for Applying Epoxy Tumblers
Follow this beginner‑friendly guide to make a beautiful epoxy tumbler — from preparation to the final glossy finish.
Step 1: Prepare the Crafting Area
Whether you are working on this project at home, in an art class, or in a workshop, it's important to clear your working area. If possible, use a sturdy table, ventilate the room, and work under room temperature. Cover important surfaces with sheets to protect them from possible accidental spills. Don't cram up your supplies, but keep them within reach.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tumbler
The tumbler should be free of oils, dust, or any other contaminants that could interfere with adhesion. Wash with soap and rinse it with warm water, then completely air dry it. Any moisture could easily mess up the project. Use alcohol and a cloth to clean anything left behind after washing.
Lightly sand down the tumbler's surface. The aim is to create a rough texture for the epoxy to have a better grip, which improves its adherence.
Next, use painter's tape to cover the tumbler's rim. Run the tape consistently around the lip, leaving a quarter of an inch. This prevents the epoxy from getting into the lip where you'll drink from. Epoxy resins are not food‑safe, so it is good to keep them away from the mouth whenever you can.
Step 3: Set Up the Cup Turner
A cup turner is used to rotate the tumbler in a slow and steady motion, preventing the epoxy from dripping or pooling as it cures. Firmly mount and secure the turner on a leveled surface in a dust‑free area. Place a drop cloth under it to collect any drippings for easy cleaning. Adjust the rotation speed to something you're comfortable working with.
Step 4: Apply Base Coat & Glitter (Optional)
Apply a thin layer of base paint to enhance the tumbler's design, especially if you'll be using glitter or ink. It provides a solid background color, adding depth to the decorations and making the colors pop. Avoid heavy layers because they drip and might show through the epoxy. Let it dry for thirty minutes before proceeding so that the paint doesn't bleed into the epoxy.
Using Mod Podge to Stick Glitter
Mod Podge acts as a glue, sealer, or finish in art projects. You can use it to adhere glitter to the tumbler, ensuring it stays in place throughout the epoxy application. Spread a thin layer of Mod Podge on the dry basecoat, but only on parts that you want glitter to adhere to. Then sprinkle the glitter on that layer, gently tapping the tumbler as you rotate it to reduce clumping. Work in sections to prevent the Mod Podge from drying out before you apply the glitter. Let it dry for 30 minutes, then move to the next stage.
Using Tack‑It to Stick Glitter
If you don't have Mod Podge, you can use Tack‑It as a temporary adhesive to hold the glitters in place while applying epoxy. Unlike other adhesives, Tack‑It does not dry out completely immediately, allowing you to reposition the glitter until it is set. Just as with Mod Podge, spread a thin layer and then sprinkle glitter while the tack is still tacky. Add a sealing layer of Tack‑It to prevent the glitter from rubbing off when applying epoxy. Leave it to air dry for thirty minutes.
Step 5: Mix & Apply Epoxy
Mixing the epoxy is a crucial aspect of this process because the ratio and components must be correct.
Using a clean and dry measuring cup, measure both parts of the resin — Part A (resin) and the hardener, Part B — separately. Manufacturers provide specific working ratios, but the typical one is 2:1. After measuring, pour them into one bowl and mix using a stir stick. Stir slowly and consistently for 5 minutes, or until the mixture obtains uniform consistency. Stirring fast might introduce bubbles, which we don't want. Let the mixture sit for two minutes for any trapped air bubbles to escape.
⚠️ Important: The pot time for epoxy is approximately 40 minutes. Be mindful of your working time and apply the epoxy as soon as you are done mixing it before it thickens or cures.
Apply the epoxy: All the layers should be dry before you start applying epoxy. Using a silicone brush, start applying from the top, working your way down, ensuring you cover all the parts, even those without glitter. The layer should be thin and even. Using too much pressure causes the epoxy to pool or drip. Instead, gently spread them out using the brush. If any parts are bare or uneven, a quick reapplication of the epoxy should be done while everything is still wet.
Step 6: Remove Bubbles & Cure
Remove bubbles: Use a heat gun or torch to pop any bubbles. Hold it 8 inches away from the tumbler and direct the flame to the bubbles. The heat expands the trapped air and pops it. Holding the flame too close to the surface might prematurely cure or overheat the resin.
Cure the epoxy: With everything done, set the tumbler on the rotating turner to ensure everything dries out evenly. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions on the curing time — usually 4 to 6 hours for initial setting, and up to 72 hours for full curing. Occasionally check on the tumbler as it cures for any imperfections that might develop and fix them before everything is dry.
After curing, lightly sand the tumbler again to attain a smooth surface. For a glossy finish, apply a final epoxy layer after curing the initial one.
The Difference Between Drying and Curing
Although the terms are used for similar concepts, they have different meanings. Drying is when the epoxy's solvents evaporate, making the surface feel parched, although the underneath is still soft. It happens within a relatively short timeframe, usually the first two hours, and is the first step towards curing.
Curing is a chemical process where the resin and hardener bond to form a solid. It can take up to 72 hours depending on the environmental conditions and the products used. The curing determines the final performance of the tumbler, its safety to use, and its durability — so be keen on it.
3. Un‑Glittered Tumbler Options
Covering a plain tumbler with epoxy is a much more straightforward process — perfect for beginners or those who prefer a minimalist look.
Follow the steps below for a clean, glossy epoxy tumbler without glitter:
Prepare the tumbler — wash, sand, and tape the rim as described above.
Set up the turner — mount the tumbler on the cup turner.
Apply a base coat — spray paint provides a solid color foundation.
Personalize — add vinyl decals or other decorations before the epoxy layer.
Mix and apply epoxy — follow the same mixing and application steps.
Remove bubbles — use a heat torch to pop any trapped air.
Cure and polish — let it rotate for 4‑6 hours, then sand and apply a final coat if desired.
4. Different Ways to Decorate an Epoxy Tumbler
There's no limit to your creativity with a tumbler. Here are some popular decoration techniques to try.
You can use:
Vinyl decals or stickers — cut from adhesive vinyl and applied before the epoxy layer.
Glitter — applied with Mod Podge or Tack‑It for a sparkling finish.
Alcohol ink art — for colorful, abstract designs.
Mica powders and pigments — for metallic or pearlescent effects.
Painted designs — using acrylic or spray paint.
Hydro dipping — for complex, marbled patterns under the epoxy.
If you're new to decorating tumblers, something as simple as a single creative coat of base spray paint will do the trick.
5. Additional Tips for Making Epoxy Tumblers
Adding some details to the tumbler can make a big difference. Master the basics, then experiment with different techniques.
Experiment with Different Techniques
Before settling on a technique, try out different epoxy application styles using different material tumblers and decorations to come up with endless designs. Try different layering techniques, blending different colors, and using inks in creative ways to achieve different effects. Learning how to add creative textured finishes also improves its general aesthetic.
Consider Layering Up
Skillfully building up several layers gives the tumbler a richer look. As you dip your foot into this craft, layer up with different finishes and textures that make it look multi‑dimensional. Multiple layers also lengthen the durability and increase the tumbler's market value compared to single‑layered ones.
✓ Epoxy Tumbler Project Checklist
□ Clear and ventilate your workspace
□ Wash and dry the tumbler thoroughly
□ Sand the surface for better adhesion
□ Tape the rim with painter's tape
□ Apply base coat and let dry for 30 minutes
□ Apply glitter with Mod Podge or Tack‑It
□ Mix epoxy with the correct 2:1 ratio
□ Apply epoxy evenly with a silicone brush
□ Remove bubbles with a heat torch (8 inches away)
□ Cure on the turner for 4‑6 hours (initial) or 72 hours (full)
□ Sand and apply a second coat if desired
□ Clean up immediately — cured epoxy is hard to remove
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about making epoxy tumblers.
Can I use any tumbler for epoxy coating?
Stainless steel tumblers work best because they are durable and compatible with epoxy resin. Sublimation tumblers also work well. Avoid plastic or coated tumblers that may not bond properly with the resin.
Is epoxy resin food‑safe?
Most epoxy resins are not food‑safe when uncured. Once fully cured (72 hours), they are generally safe for external contact but should not be used on drinking rims. Always tape the rim to prevent epoxy from contacting the lip area where you drink.
How long does epoxy take to cure completely?
Initial setting takes 4‑6 hours, but full curing can take up to 72 hours. The curing time depends on the specific resin brand, room temperature, and humidity. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Why are there bubbles in my epoxy?
Bubbles can form from stirring too vigorously, moisture on the tumbler surface, or trapped air in the resin. To prevent them, stir slowly and let the mixture sit for 2 minutes before applying. Use a heat torch to pop bubbles after application.
Can I add vinyl decals under the epoxy?
Yes — vinyl decals are a popular decoration for epoxy tumblers. Apply them after the base coat and before the epoxy layer. Ensure they are fully pressed down to prevent air bubbles underneath.
Final Thoughts
Making epoxy tumblers is a rewarding craft that combines creativity with practical results. While the process requires patience and attention to detail, the glossy, durable finish is well worth the effort.
Start with a simple design — perhaps a solid color with a single decoration layer — and work your way up to more complex techniques as you gain confidence. With practice, you'll be creating professional‑quality tumblers that make perfect gifts or even a profitable side business.
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