Vinyl mugs are a fun and easy way to personalize your drinkware.
In this article, we will show you how to put vinyl on mugs, share the results of a vinyl test, and provide some cute design ideas for your own creations.
Table of Contents
Putting Vinyl on Mugs
When applying vinyl to mugs, it’s important to avoid designs with creases that are difficult to remove.
Instead, opt for designs that allow the transfer tape to bend with the curve of the mug, resulting in a smooth application without any creases.
To begin, center your design on the mug and allow the vinyl to naturally move into place.
Smooth it down, and if necessary, make small snips around the edges of the design to ensure it adheres properly to the curved surface.
Once the vinyl is in place, remove the transfer tape to reveal a smooth and clear decal on your mug.
Vinyl Test Results
To determine the best vinyl for mugs, a test was conducted using various types of vinyl.
The results showed that ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl, Permanent Glossy performed the best, with no issues and a great overall appearance.
EZ Craft, a type of permanent vinyl, had some issues with the design coming off.
The foil adhesive from Cricut and the glitter adhesive vinyl did not perform well, with the glitter vinyl losing its glittery appearance after being washed.
The heat transfer vinyls, including Cricut Stronghold iron-on vinyl and Siser Easyweed vinyl, did not stick well to the mug and came off in the dishwasher.
Based on these results, it is recommended to use ORACAL 651 or Cricut Premium Vinyl, Permanent Glossy for vinyl mugs.
These types of vinyl are permanent and outdoor-quality, ensuring a long-lasting design on your mug.
Design Ideas
To add some personality to your vinyl mugs, you can create cute designs using layered vinyl.
One example is a simple face design, where you can layer different vinyl pieces to create a cute face on your mug.
Another design idea is a unicorn mug, which uses four different types of vinyl, including printable vinyl for a wreath of flowers.
Layering the vinyl pieces creates a beautiful and unique design on your mug.
Tips for Applying Vinyl to Tumblers
If you want to apply vinyl to tumblers, it’s important to consider the surface of the tumbler.
Ceramic tumblers with a smooth and shiny surface are ideal for vinyl application.
However, if the tumbler has a powder coating, it may be difficult to get the vinyl to stick.
Further research is recommended for applying vinyl to tumblers with different surfaces.
Maintenance of Vinyl Mugs
While vinyl mugs can be placed in the dishwasher, it’s important to note that repeated washing may affect the appearance of the vinyl design over time.
Hand washing is recommended to maintain the longevity of the design.
However, if the design starts to deteriorate, it can always be remade.
Conclusion
Vinyl mugs are a fun and creative way to personalize your drinkware.
By using the right vinyl and following the proper application techniques, you can create beautiful and long-lasting designs on your mugs.
ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl, Permanent Glossy are recommended for their durability and overall performance.
Experiment with different designs and have fun customizing your own vinyl mugs.
Remember, if you can dream it, we can show you how to make it. Happy crafting!
