Maya Ellison
Plastic tumblers are a great alternative to glassware for outdoor gatherings. They can be easily personalised with paint or markers, making them fun gifts for friends and family. Before painting, wash the tumbler with soap and water, then use rubbing alcohol and a cotton wipe to prepare the surface. You can paint freehand, or trace a design taped to the inside of the tumbler. Use acrylic paint markers or Sharpies, which are easy to use and come in a variety of colours. If using paint, work in sections and apply heat after each section to set the paint and prevent dripping. You can also use stencils, stickers, or print photos to personalise your tumbler.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Acrylic paint markers, Sharpie Oil-Based Paint markers, Shuttle Art permanent markers, PHOSEA permanent markers, outdoor vinyl, transfer tape, stencil, die-cutting machine, scissors, craft knife, photo paper or cardstock, printouts, masking tape |
| Surface Preparation | Wash the tumbler with soap and water, use rubbing alcohol and a cotton wipe to remove residual oils |
| Design Preparation | Trace the design on vinyl, cut out the design, print names or pictures |
| Painting/Writing | Saturate the marker tip with paint, press down on the tip to release paint as you draw, work one section at a time, apply heat after each section to dry the paint and prevent blending, apply final heat setting and allow to dry for 24 hours |
| Vinyl Application | Remove the backing from vinyl, press the vinyl onto the tumbler with the sticky side down, smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles, remove transfer tape |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right marker
One popular option is the Sharpie brand, which offers a range of markers suitable for writing on plastic. Their oil-based paint markers are designed for writing on both glass and plastic, leaving bold, permanent marks. Sharpie also offers metallic markers that can add shine and make your designs stand out. Additionally, their fine and ultra-fine markers are great for personalizing tumblers with custom messages or intricate designs.
Another highly-rated option is the Shuttle Art permanent markers, which come in a pack of 30 assorted colours. These markers are water and smear-resistant, highly pigmented, and quick-drying, making them ideal for writing, colouring, and drawing on plastic surfaces. They are also acid-free and non-toxic, making them safe for children aged three and above.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, the PHOSEA permanent marker set offers an excellent balance between quality and price. These markers have a 0.7mm extra-fine point, perfect for detailed work, and can be used on various surfaces beyond just plastic.
When choosing a marker, it's important to consider the type of design you want to create and the level of detail you require. Fine and extra-fine point markers are ideal for intricate designs, while bold markers can be used for simpler, more striking artwork. Additionally, some markers offer a range of colours, while others may be specialised for specific effects, such as metallic finishes.
In addition to the marker itself, you may also want to consider using transfer tape and outdoor vinyl to help create and apply your design. This method ensures that your design is properly spaced and adhered to the tumbler.
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Preparing the surface
Clean the Tumbler
First, wash the tumbler with soap and water to remove any dirt or dust. This will ensure that there is no residue left on the tumbler that could interfere with the paint or ink's adhesion.
Remove Oils
Even after washing, plastic surfaces can sometimes retain a thin layer of oil. To address this, use a cotton wipe soaked in rubbing alcohol to thoroughly wipe down the area of the tumbler you plan to decorate. The alcohol will remove any residual oils, creating a clean surface for your design.
Choose Your Design
Before you begin writing or painting, decide on the design you want to create. This could be a freehand drawing, a stencil, or a printed design. If you're tracing a design, cut out the design with scissors, a craft knife, or a die-cutting machine, and tape it to the inside of the tumbler, facing outwards. For a simpler approach, print or write names or messages on paper and trace them onto the tumbler to ensure they are straight and evenly spaced.
Gather Your Materials
Select the appropriate writing instrument for your project. Permanent markers designed for use on plastic, such as Sharpies or Shuttle Art markers, are ideal for writing or drawing on plastic tumblers. These markers are often bold, smear-resistant, and fade-proof. If you prefer paint, opt for acrylic paint markers, which are easy to use and suitable for plastic surfaces.
Prepare Your Workspace
If you plan to use spray paint, ensure you are working outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Have a heat tool or hair dryer ready to set the paint and prevent dripping. Place your tumbler on a flat surface, and lay out all the materials you need to avoid interruptions during the creative process.
With the surface of your tumbler prepared, you are now ready to begin writing or painting. Remember to follow any specific instructions provided with your chosen writing instrument for the best results.
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Tracing a design
Prepare the Tumbler
Before you begin tracing your design, it is important to prepare the surface of the tumbler. Wash the tumbler with soap and water to remove any dirt or residue. Then, use rubbing alcohol and a cotton wipe to remove any residual oils from the plastic. This step will help the paint or ink adhere better to the surface.
Choose Your Design
Decide on the design you want to trace onto the tumbler. This could be a name, a quote, or a decorative pattern. You can print or draw your design on a piece of paper, or use a stencil. If you are using text, consider printing it out to ensure the letters are legible and evenly spaced.
Adhere the Design to the Tumbler
Once you have your design ready, it's time to attach it to the tumbler. Use masking tape to adhere the design to the inside of the tumbler, with the design facing out. Make sure that the design is centred and securely attached to the tumbler.
Trace the Design
Now, you can begin tracing your design. If you are using a stencil, simply hold it steady against the tumbler. If you are tracing a printed or drawn design, you may need to cut out the design with scissors or a craft knife before attaching it to the tumbler. Use a permanent marker or paint marker to trace the design onto the surface of the tumbler. Work slowly and carefully, and keep the tip of the marker saturated with paint or ink.
Remove the Stencil or Paper
After you have finished tracing, carefully remove the stencil or paper from the tumbler. If you used tape, slowly peel it away from the tumbler to avoid smudging your design. Check that your design is fully transferred to the tumbler before proceeding to the next step.
Apply Heat (if using Paint)
If you are using paint markers, you will need to apply heat to set the paint and prevent smudging. Use a heat tool or a hairdryer to apply heat to the painted areas. Apply heat continually, even when you are not switching colours, to prevent dripping. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly for 24 hours before using the tumbler.
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Applying paint
Before applying paint to a plastic tumbler, it is important to prepare the surface. Wash the tumbler with soap and water, and then use rubbing alcohol and a cotton wipe to remove any residual oils. This will allow the paint to adhere better to the surface. If you are using a stencil, trace your design on a sheet of outdoor vinyl, then cut out the design with scissors, a craft knife, or a die-cutting machine.
There are several types of paint and markers suitable for plastic tumblers. Acrylic paint markers are ideal for those who are intimidated by paintbrushes, as they are easy to use. You can also use oil-based paint markers, which are made to write on plastic and will make bold, permanent marks. If you are using a paintbrush, you may want to consider a permanent marker that is smooth and sticks well to plastic. Shuttle Art offers a large package of 30 permanent markers in assorted colours, which are both water and smear-resistant. Sharpie is another reliable brand that is sold worldwide and performs well on plastic items.
When you are ready to start painting, make sure you work in one section at a time. If you are using a marker, keep pressing down on the tip to release paint as you draw. If you are using a paintbrush, be careful not to apply paint anywhere that your mouth will touch. After you have finished one section or colour, apply heat to the paint to help it dry and prevent the colours from blending. You can use a heat tool or a hairdryer. Applying heat also sets the paint to make it permanent.
After the first colour is dry, paint the next section using another colour. Again, after each section, heat set the paint. Applying heat continually will help prevent the paint from dripping. When you are finished, heat set one last time and allow the paint to dry thoroughly on its own for 24 hours before using the tumbler.
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Drying and setting
Once you have finished applying your design to the tumbler, it is important to let the paint dry and set properly. If you are using acrylic paint markers, you should apply heat to the paint to help it dry. You can use a heat tool or a hairdryer for this. Applying heat also helps set the paint and makes it permanent. It is a good idea to apply heat continually, even when you are not switching colours, as this will help prevent the paint from dripping.
After applying heat, let the paint dry thoroughly on its own for 24 hours before using the tumbler. This will ensure that the paint is completely dry and will not smudge or smear. If you are using a clear acrylic tumbler with a photo inside, you should also allow the glue or adhesive to dry completely before using the tumbler.
If you are using oil-based paint markers, such as Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, you may not need to apply heat to the paint. However, it is still important to let the paint dry thoroughly before using the tumbler. The drying time may vary depending on the type of paint and the number of coats applied, so it is always best to wait at least 24 hours to ensure that the paint is completely dry.
Once the paint is dry to the touch and you have allowed it to set for the recommended time, you can gently wash the tumbler with mild soap and water to remove any residual paint or glue. This will also help to remove any dust or debris that may have settled on the tumbler during the drying process. After washing, dry the tumbler thoroughly with a soft cloth or towel.
Your tumbler is now ready to use and enjoy! Your design should be long-lasting, but it is recommended to wash the tumbler by hand to help preserve your design or photo. If you need to transport your tumbler, wrap it carefully in bubble wrap or packing material to prevent any damage to your design.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a variety of tools that can be used to write on plastic tumblers, including acrylic paint markers, Sharpie Oil-Based Paint markers, Shuttle Art permanent markers, and PHOSEA permanent markers.
Before writing on a plastic tumbler, wash it with soap and water, then use rubbing alcohol and a cotton wipe to remove any residual oils.
Printing your design on paper and tracing it can help ensure your writing is straight and evenly spaced. Alternatively, you can use stencils or transfer tape to help with spacing.
