How to Make Glitter Tumblers with Epoxy?

If you love doing craft works, you know the kind of patience you will require throughout the whole time. In the case of making glitter tumblers with epoxy, you have to experience the same thing.

Surprisingly, this DIY task is quite easy if you have the proper tools and techniques. After you are done with the work, you will definitely be satisfied with the outcome.

So, the question comes, how to make glitter tumblers with epoxy?

To find the answer, you have to read this article. For your benefit, we have done some research and came up with lots of information that can help you out in the long run.

Without wasting any more time, let’s dive right into it.

Glitter Tumbler DiyHow to Make Glitter Tumblers with Epoxy

Diy Glitter Tumblers with Epoxy

Below, you will find the step-by-step process that you can follow to successfully get your job done.

Glitter Tumbler Supplies

Glitter Tumbler Supplies

Before you start the process, it is mandatory that you gather all the required supplies so that you don’t face any problems with your works.

  • Epoxy resin
  • Vinyl (non-mandatory)
  • Stainless steel tumbler
  • Sandpaper (non-mandatory)
  • Turner
  • Spray paint
  • Tape (non-mandatory)
  • Glitter
  • Popsicle sticks
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Newspaper or parchment paper

Step 1: Cover up the Top and Bottom

diy glitter tumbler with epoxy

This step is optional, but we have included it just to give you a bit of knowledge in advance. At the end of the day, it depends on your personal choice.

If you are interested in revealing the steel outlook on the top and bottom, you can use the tape to cover those spots. You can use gaffer’s tape, which has used vinyl-coated cloths as its material. Plus, you will get a matte finish, and due to that, it increases the beauty of those areas.

Moreover, if you prefer to drink from the steel-made top and avoid epoxy specifically in that area, the tape will become your biggest savior. Keep in mind that epoxy is safe to use and won’t harm your health when you drink from the tumbler.

Step 2: Use Spray Paint

spray painting tumblers

Now, you have to spray paint the tumbler. You might ask, ‘why use spray paint so early?’ The answer to your question is that the glitter will pop more when you have applied epoxy on the tumblers.

It will only happen if you have used spray paint beforehand. So, the beauty will elevate to a new level if you use this clever technique.

You can use matte paint since it will make the epoxy shine out more than usual. As this is a DIY project, you should experiment with it according to your wish.

There are some types of spray paints that you can’t use immediately. You have to sand the tumbler and then apply the paint. Yes, this sounds hectic, but you can give it a try if you prefer to bring creativity to your project.

Always spray paint in an outside area. In this way, your place won’t get messy, and you don’t need to clean it afterward. Plus, it will dry quickly because of nature.

Step 3: Make a Turner

tumbler turner

A turner is a tool that you can use to flip or rotate the tumbler. It allows the glitter tumbler to dry without coming in contact with anything, and the process is hassle-free.

You can turn the tumbler by hand when it is drying. Do this every 3 to 4 minutes and continue this procedure for around 30 minutes. For accuracy, you can set a timer or an alarm on your cell phone.

Step 4: Apply Epoxy

epoxy tumblers for beginners

This step is very crucial, and you must do it with patience and confidence. You have to maintain proper eye-contact, or else you won’t be happy with the outcome.

Use a good quality epoxy and make sure it is from a reputed brand. Since you are going to use the tumbler for a drink, check whether it is authorized as safe by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) or not. You also should check the label to clear out everything.

For your safety, wear safety gloves. Read the instruction that comes with the epoxy packaging. Stir it for at least 3 minutes, and if there are bubbles forming during this time, stir it even more slowly. You can use a popsicle stick to make it easier for you.

Gently apply the epoxy to the tumbler. Spread it all over the area and don’t leave anything untouched. When you are done with the coating, it is time that you proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Spread the Glitter

applying glitter to tumblers

Start applying the glitter, and with every spin of the tumbler (thanks to the turner), it will be distributed evenly. You can use a brush, but it is not mandatory.

There are two strategies that you can go for. You can either break it down into two stages, or you can do it in a single go.

For the first stage, you can choose a specific portion and apply glitter to that area. After that, you can leave it to dry. You can then move to the other part and apply another epoxy coating and continue to do like this.

In the other stage, you don’t need to pick a spot. You can simply spread the glitter in the overall area without taking a break.

To store the glitter leftovers, you can place a newspaper underneath the tumbler. Not only can you collect it afterward, but also you won’t have to spend much time while cleaning.

Step 6: Add More Glitter or Vinyl Decal (Optional Step)

adding more glitter

Because vinyl decals work excellently when it comes to sticking with smooth materials, you can include this in your project. It will cost you some amount of time so, be prepared for that.

A clever approach will be to apply the epoxy layer over the glitter first and then add the decal on the top portion. Be very careful and gentle in this application process.

You can also add more glitter to the other part of the tumbler to get that stylish layered outlook.

Step 7: Finish It Off with the Final Epoxy Coat

You can use your index finger for this process. Ensure that the tumbler is connected to the turner.

Apply the layer slowly and make strokes along the way. Continue it down to the base during the spinning time.

Extra care will be needed if you have used a vinyl decal (previous step).

Step 8: Clean Everything

cleaning epoxy tumbler

Now that you are down to the final step, it is time you start cleaning everything. If you have used tape on the tumbler, remove it. Don’t do it immediately after you are done applying epoxy and glitter.

Wait for around 45 minutes, and then start peeling. If you haven’t used tape, no problem, use acetone to remove the leftovers that could get stuck inside the tumbler.

Nail polish remover goes very well in cleaning. In this case, you have to use a paper towel to make everything smooth and efficient.

Congrats! You are done with making glitter tumblers with epoxy.

Tips

  • Always seal the tumbler properly to avoid glitter shedding.
  • Don’t work on a carpet because it will get ruined due to epoxy and glitter. Choose an outside location or garage in this type of situation.
  • Keep the kids distracted during your working time. If possible, put them in a different room so that you are not distracted.
  • It is best that you don’t use a dishwasher. Though it is easy and time-saving, it is safe to avoid it. If you are still interested in going for it, only use the top-rack.
  • Use a turner for precise outputs. This tool saves some of your physical effort that you can invest in other purposes.
  • It is not necessary for you to sand the stainless steel before you start painting. This won’t save your time at all. So, it will be better if you ignore this approach.
  • Don’t be shy when you are applying glitter. Use as much as possible according to your imagination. Furthermore, use a high-quality one.
  • If you live in a cold environment, it is obvious that you have to let the tumbler dry for a long time. You can use the same approach for normal climates as well because it is a safe option and will surely give you satisfactory results.
  • Yes, spray painting is not mandatory, but it is considered quite helpful. If you don’t like it, you have to take another step. In this situation, you have to use an extra amount of glitters or layers.

Conclusion

As you can see, the overall process is not tough at all. With practice, you will get a good grip on it.

Follow the instructions and experiment with it. You might fail initially, but with time, you will be successful.

For additional advice regarding how to make glitter tumblers with epoxy, you can consult with a professional. Their suggestion can be a bonus for your project.

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