To glitter a tumbler, you'll need to prepare the surface, apply a base coat of paint that matches your glitter, add glitter with an adhesive, seal the glitter, and finish the tumbler with one or more coats of epoxy resin. These steps will empower you to create a smooth, glossy finish that resists chipping and keeps your glitter securely in place.
Glitter tumblers are great for adding a sparkling touch to everyday drinkware. Many crafters create these glitter cups for gifting and personal use, but they also make great products for drinkware sellers.
Learning how to glitter a tumbler isn't difficult. However, using high-quality supplies and following crafting best practices will make a noticeable difference in the final result. Using the right materials and proper techniques will help you create a glitter tumbler with a professional-looking finish.
In this guide, we will explore each step of applying glitter to tumblers, including the supplies you will need, care instructions, and common questions about the process.
By the end of this glitter tumbler tutorial, you'll understand how to create durable, sparkling cups from start to finish.
Looking for supplies to create breathtaking glitter tumblers? Order high-quality stainless steel tumblers and epoxy resin today at The Stainless Depot Company.
Supplies You'll Need to Glitter a Tumbler
Before you start making DIY glitter tumblers, you will need to gather essential supplies, including:
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Tumblers: Crafters often use stainless steel tumblers when making glitter cups, but you can also use other blanks with rigid, non-flexible surfaces, such as glass or acrylic tumblers.
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Rubbing Alcohol and a Lint-Free Cloth: Ideal for cleaning your tumblers before applying glitter and epoxy.
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Fine-Grit Sandpaper (around 220-grit): Creates a slightly textured surface that improves adhesion and helps the paint, glitter, and epoxy bond to the tumbler.
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Painter's Tape: Protects areas you don't want to customize, such as the rim and bottom of the tumbler, while creating clean edges.
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Color for the Base Coat: Most crafters use spray paint, but you can also use acrylic paint.
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Crafting Glitter: Use extra-fine, fine, chunky, or a combination of glitter sizes.
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Crafting Adhesive: Use Mod Podge or a spray adhesive, like Loctite 100, to attach the glitter.
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Spray Sealer: Locks the glitter in place before you apply the epoxy. Common spray sealers include Krylon Triple-Thick Crystal Clear Glaze and Rust-Oleum's Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint.
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Epoxy Resin for Tumblers: Creates a clear, protective coating over the glitter while providing a smooth, glossy finish.
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Epoxy Mixing Cup, Stir Sticks, and Brushes: Use a mixing cup and stir sticks to measure, combine, and mix epoxy resin, then use a brush to apply it.
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Nitrile Gloves: Protect your hands while you handle epoxy.
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Epoxy Tumbler Turner: Slowly rotates your tumbler while the epoxy cures, preventing drips and creating a smooth, even finish.
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Heat Gun or Torch: Removes bubbles from epoxy after application.
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UV DTF or Vinyl Decal (optional): Adds custom designs, names, logos, or artwork to personalize your glitter tumbler.
While you can make glitter tumblers from various cup materials, stainless steel tumblers are the best choice for epoxy crafting. These tumblers are durable, easy to prepare, and provide a smooth surface for paint, glitter, and epoxy.
Plus, many stainless steel cups are double-wall vacuum insulated, so they keep drinks hot and cold much longer than glass, plastic, and other materials.
Now that you have what you need to create glitter tumblers, let's explore each step of the process.
Step 1: Prepare and Paint Your Tumbler
Before you apply glitter, you will need to prepare and paint your cup's surface. Proper preparation creates the foundation for a smooth, long-lasting glitter tumbler.
Make sure you complete these steps before adding your glitter to help create a professional finish:
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Clean the Tumbler: Wipe the entire surface with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth to remove dust, oils, and residue. Let the tumbler dry completely before handling it again.
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Lightly Sand the Surface: Scuff the outside of the tumbler with 220-grit sandpaper to improve paint adhesion. Wipe away all sanding dust before moving on.
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Apply Painter's Tape: Cover the rim, bottom, and any other areas you don't want to customize. Press the tape down firmly to create clean edges.
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Apply a Base Coat of Paint: Choose a spray or acrylic paint that closely matches your glitter color. A matching base coat helps the glitter appear more vibrant and improves coverage. Apply several light coats, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.
With your tumbler cleaned, painted, and fully dry, you've created the ideal surface for adding glitter.
Step 2: Apply Glitter
Now it's time to give your tumbler its signature sparkle. The way you apply the glitter will affect your tumbler's appearance, so you will need to create an even layer across the entire surface.
The amount of glitter you need depends on your tumbler size. A 20-oz tumbler usually requires about 2-4 oz of glitter, while a 40-oz tumbler needs 4-6 oz.
The exact amount can also depend on the glitter size and whether you applied a base layer of matching paint. If you used a matching base coat beforehand, you can achieve the appearance of full coverage while using less glitter.
Once you have your glitter ready, it's time to apply it. Follow these steps to create consistent coverage across the entire tumbler:
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Choose Your Glitter: Extra-fine glitter creates a smooth, uniform finish, while chunky glitter adds texture and dimension. Many crafters combine different kinds of glitter to create more depth and sparkle.
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Apply the Adhesive: Brush on a thin coat of Mod Podge or apply a light coat of spray adhesive onto one section of the tumbler at a time. Don't coat the entire tumbler at once. You will apply glitter to each section before moving on to the next to keep the adhesive from drying too quickly.
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Apply the Glitter: Immediately sprinkle glitter over the wet adhesive until the section is completely covered. Rotate the tumbler as you work, then repeat the process by applying adhesive to the next section, followed by more glitter. Continue until you've covered the entire tumbler. You can also catch excess glitter on a tray or sheet of paper so you can reuse it later.
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Allow the Glitter to Dry: Let the adhesive cure completely before handling the tumbler. If you notice any thin spots after it dries, apply a little more adhesive and glitter before moving on.
After you evenly apply your glitter and let it dry, you're ready to seal it. This extra step helps lock the glitter in place.
Step 3: Seal the Glitter
Sealing the glitter helps prevent loose flakes from mixing into the epoxy while creating a smoother foundation for the final finish. This step can make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your glitter tumbler, as sealing helps prevent glitter loss and creates a more stable surface for the epoxy resin.
Complete the following steps to lock the glitter in place:
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Apply a Spray Sealer: Hold the can about 8 to 12 inches from the tumbler and apply a light, even coat over the entire glitter layer. Work in a well-ventilated area and apply several light coats rather than one heavy coat.
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Inspect the Glitter Coverage: Once the sealer has dried, check for thin spots or uneven areas. If needed, apply a little more adhesive, add additional glitter, and reseal those sections.
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Allow the Sealer to Dry Completely: Follow the manufacturer's recommended drying time before applying epoxy. The glitter should feel secure with very little coming off when you gently touch the surface.
Once the sealer has fully cured, your glitter layer is ready for sanding and epoxy.
Step 4: Sand and Apply the Epoxy Coat
The epoxy coat gives your glitter tumbler a glossy, smooth layer while protecting it from everyday wear.
Important Note: Because epoxy resin produces fumes while curing, always work in a well-ventilated area and wear nitrile gloves when handling the resin.
Follow these steps to apply an even epoxy coat and create a smooth, glass-like finish:
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Sand the Glitter Layer: Lightly sand the sealed glitter with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to remove rough spots and raised glitter. Wipe away all dust with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth before applying epoxy.
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Place Your Tumbler on a Tumbler Turner: Secure the tumbler on a cup turner before mixing your epoxy. The turner slowly rotates the tumbler while you apply and cure the epoxy.
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Mix the Epoxy Resin: Follow the manufacturer's instructions and combine equal parts of Part A resin and Part B hardener in a clean mixing cup. Stir slowly with a stir stick until the epoxy is fully mixed and clear.
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Apply the Epoxy: Spread a thin, even layer of mixed epoxy over the entire surface using gloved hands or a silicone brush. Avoid applying too much epoxy at once, as thicker coats are more likely to create drips. Continuously rotate the tumbler as you apply the epoxy to ensure it's completely covered and has an even finish.
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Remove Bubbles: Use a heat gun or torch to quickly remove bubbles from the epoxy surface. Keep the heat moving to avoid damaging the resin.
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Let the Epoxy Cure: Allow the tumbler to fully cure before using it. Most epoxy resins require about 72 hours to fully cure.
If the surface still has texture after the first coat cures, lightly sand it before applying a second layer of epoxy. Most glitter tumblers require two coats of epoxy to achieve a smooth, professional finish.
Once the final epoxy coat has fully cured, your glitter tumbler will have a durable, glossy surface that's ready for everyday use or additional customization.
Step 5: Add Decals (optional)
Once you've finished your glitter tumbler, you can make it even more unique by applying vinyl or UV DTF decals. Personalization is one of the biggest advantages of making your own glitter tumblers, whether you're creating drinkware to use, give as a gift, or sell.
The process below will help you apply your decal smoothly and achieve a professional-looking finish:
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Choose Your Design: Select a vinyl or UV DTF decal that fits your project. Popular options include names, monograms, business logos, seasonal graphics, and inspirational quotes.
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Prepare the Surface: Allow the epoxy to fully cure, then wipe the tumbler with a lint-free cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. A clean surface helps the decal adhere properly.
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Apply the Decal: Carefully position the decal before pressing it onto the tumbler. Smooth it from the center outward to remove air bubbles and wrinkles. Follow the manufacturer's application instructions for the best results.
- Protect the Design: If you're using a vinyl decal, apply one final coat of epoxy after the decal has adhered. This seals the design beneath a durable, glossy finish and helps protect it from scratches and everyday wear. UV DTF decals usually do not require an additional layer of epoxy, but you can still apply one to create a smoother finish.
Whether you add a name, logo, or custom artwork, including decals is an easy way to create one-of-a-kind glitter tumblers.
By following these steps, you can create a glitter tumbler with a professional finish that looks great and holds up to everyday use. Take your time with each step, especially surface preparation and epoxy application, as careful craftsmanship leads to better results.
Glitter Tumbler Care Instructions
Once you create a glitter tumbler that you're proud of, it's important to care for it so the finish stays smooth and glossy for years to come. Glitter tumblers are highly durable, but following a few simple care practices can help your tumbler maintain its shine and prevent damage.
Here's how to keep your glitter tumbler looking its best:
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Hand Wash Only: High heat and harsh detergents inside a dishwasher can damage your tumbler's epoxy layer over time. This can cause the resin to become cloudy, crack, or separate from the tumbler. To preserve the finish, wash your tumbler with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge, then dry it with a clean towel.
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Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Don't leave your tumbler sitting in water for long periods. Although a fully cured epoxy finish is water-resistant, extended soaking can shorten the protective coating's lifespan.
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Protect the Finish From Damage: Avoid dropping your tumbler or striking it against hard surfaces, as heavy impacts can chip or crack the epoxy.
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Avoid High Temperatures: Keep your tumbler away from excessive heat, such as a hot vehicle or open flame.
With proper care, you can use your high-quality epoxy glitter tumbler for years. Hand washing and careful handling are the best ways to protect your custom finish and preserve your tumbler's sparkle.
Shop Glitter Tumbler Supplies at The Stainless Depot Company
Creating a professional-looking glitter tumbler starts with high-quality supplies. Whether you're making a single personalized tumbler or producing glitter cups for sale, using reliable materials from a trustworthy supplier will help you achieve more consistent, professional results.
The Stainless Depot Company offers the supplies you need to create durable, eye-catching glitter tumblers from start to finish. Our selection includes high-quality tumbler blanks and epoxy kits to help crafters bring their ideas to life.
These high-quality stainless steel tumbler blanks are double-wall vacuum insulated and 100% BPA-free. They provide a smooth, dependable surface for paint, glitter, epoxy, and decals, making them a perfect choice for drinkware crafters.
Using professional crafting supplies from The Stainless Depot Company will empower you to produce smooth, glimmering glitter tumblers that look polished and ready for everyday use.
How to Glitter a Tumbler FAQs
How to Add Glitter to a Tumbler?
To add glitter to a tumbler, start by cleaning, sanding, and painting the surface. Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge or spray adhesive to one section of the tumbler at a time, then immediately cover that section with glitter while the adhesive is still wet. Continue applying adhesive and glitter section by section until the entire tumbler is covered. Once the glitter dries, seal it before applying epoxy resin.
What to Use to Seal Glitter on Tumblers?
A clear spray sealer is one of the best ways to seal glitter on tumblers before applying epoxy. The sealer locks loose glitter in place, reduces glitter loss, and creates a more stable surface for the epoxy coat. Crafters often use spray sealers like Krylon Triple-Thick Crystal Clear Glaze and Rust-Oleum's Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint.
Do You Have to Seal Glitter Before Epoxy?
Yes. It's best to seal the glitter before applying epoxy. A spray sealer helps prevent loose glitter from mixing into the epoxy, reduces glitter shedding, and makes it easier to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
How to Smooth Out Glitter on a Tumbler?
After sealing the glitter, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out rough spots. Wipe away the dust before applying epoxy. If the finished tumbler still has texture after the first coat, lightly sand the cured epoxy and apply a second coat for a smoother finish.
Can I Put Glitter in Epoxy Resin?
Yes, you can mix glitter directly into epoxy resin. However, most crafters achieve a smoother, more uniform finish by applying glitter to the tumbler first and sealing it before adding a clear epoxy coat.
How Many Coats of Epoxy Does a Glitter Tumbler Need?
Most glitter tumblers require two coats of epoxy. The first coat further seals and protects the glitter, while the second coat creates an even smoother finish.
Can You Sublimate on a Glitter Tumbler?
You can only sublimate a glitter tumbler if it features a polymer coating designed for sublimation printing. These tumblers are called sublimation blanks. To sublimate these tumblers, you will apply a sublimation print with heat and pressure before adding the glitter, sealant, and epoxy. You cannot sublimate a tumbler that already has an epoxy layer.
Do You Have to Spray Paint a Tumbler Before Glitter?
No, but it's helpful to add matching spray or acrylic paint before applying your glitter. A matching base coat helps the glitter appear brighter and more uniform. Using a base coat often produces a more professional glitter tumbler while requiring less glitter to achieve a full-coverage look.
Are Glitter Tumblers Dishwasher Safe?
No, most glitter tumblers are not dishwasher-safe. High heat and harsh detergents can damage epoxy resin, loosen glitter, and affect the tumbler's glossy finish over time. To protect your design, hand wash glitter tumblers with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft sponge. Avoid soaking the tumbler for extended periods and dry it completely after cleaning.
Create High-Quality Glitter Tumblers with The Stainless Depot Company
Learning how to glitter a tumbler comes down to proper preparation, even glitter application, careful sealing, and applying smooth, even epoxy coats. By following this guide and using high-quality supplies, you can create highly durable and eye-catching glitter tumblers.
As you become more comfortable with the process, you can experiment with different glitter colors, decals, and other customization techniques to create one-of-a-kind drinkware for yourself or for resale.
Plus, these glitter tumblers can be amazing gifts for your loved ones, and you can personalize them to make them even more special.
For the best results, start your next glitter tumbler project with supplies designed for smooth, professional-looking finishes. Using reliable materials helps you achieve more consistent results.
Fortunately, you're in the right place for getting the best glitter tumbler supplies.
The Stainless Depot Company offers professional crafting materials for creating glitter tumblers, including epoxy resin, stainless steel tumblers, acrylic tumblers, and glass tumblers.
Whether you need a single tumbler or wholesale tumblers, The Stainless Depot Company provides the blanks and supplies you need to achieve consistent, professional results every time.
