How To Seal Vinyl On Tumblers: Ultimate Guide For Every Crafter (2024)

Tumblers as gifts look boring if they’re plain. However, with adhesive vinyl decals customization, you can make them colorful, personal, and artistic. Moreover, the process of customization doesn’t end here. You need to protect the vinyl on your stainless steel tumbler from harsh elements, including wear and tear.

How? Through sealing the decor. Thus, in this article, learn how to perfectly seal vinyl with the best sealant to keep your decor from peeling away and last for years. But, let’s have a brief overview of the different types of adhesive vinyl used for tumblers, so you can see where sealants enter into the scene of crafting.

Outdoor Vinyl vs. Indoor Vinyl: Overview

These two are types of adhesive vinyl. Furthermore, removable vinyl is also called indoor vinyl and permanent vinyl is also called outdoor vinyl. As the name suggests, this vinyl is removable and is best used for crafts that don’t need washing or constant cleaning.

Importance Of Sealing Vinyl

Many crafters say vinyl doesn’t need sealing because most types of vinyl are waterproof or water-resistant. These types of permanent vinyl can last for years, which is true by the way. If you want to create more long-lasting vinyl mugs and tumblers, you might want to consider applying some sealant. Why decorating your tumbler shouldn’t end with vinyl and transfer tape?

Sealing your vinyl tumblers with a heavy-duty sealant is important for several reasons. First, it prevents the vinyl from peeling or cracking. Second, a sealant protects the vinyl from fading over time. Finally, sealing prevents condensation from forming on the outside of the cup.

Types Of Sealant

Sealants are clear coats that are applied over the vinyl decal to protect it from wear and tear and harsh elements such as the dishwasher. There are two main types of sealants: water-based and oil-based. Water-based sealants have a lower VOC (volatile organic compound) content. The VOC makes them more environmentally friendly.

They're also easier to clean up if you make a mistake while applying them. However, they may not be as durable as oil-based sealants. Oil-based sealants, on the other hand, provide a stronger barrier against moisture and wear. But because they're made with petroleum products, they're not as eco-friendly as water-based sealants.

Sealants For Every Crafter

Tumblers are incredibly versatile and you can use them for hot or cold beverages. Thus, you should consider the sealant to use. There are a few different options available, and each has its own pros and cons. Here are just a few of the sealants you may want to consider for your tumblers with vinyl:

Polycrylic

Polycrylic is a water-based versatile sealer that you can use for a variety of applications. It has two variants: spray form and liquid. When compared to other sealants, this sealant is relatively easy to apply. However, the biggest drawback is its application. You need to apply thin layers at a time. If you're looking for a thicker, more protective coating, allow the polycrylic to dry between layers.

Patience is key when working with this sealant. It's also important to choose polycrylic over polyurethane as polyurethane may cause damage if handled incorrectly. When used correctly, polyacrylic is an excellent option for sealing and protecting surfaces.

Mod Podge

This versatile and non-toxic product is easy to find in art and craft stores, whether in small bottles or larger quantities. To seal vinyl, simply apply a coat of mod podge over your vinyl decal using a brush, just like you would with paint. Mod Podge works great for adding a personalized touch to mugs, tumblers, plates, and other dishwares.

With its wide range of finishes, from matte to glossy to glitter, there's an option for every style and taste. One potential downside is the minimum curing time. You’ll need at least 28 days after it has been applied, so make sure you don't lose track of time.

Triple Thick

Triple Thick is an inexpensive and easy-to-use sealant that can give your DIY creations a professional, high-gloss finish. With its thick consistency and smooth texture, this sealant will give all of your projects a smooth, polished appearance. Plus, it's non-toxic and easy to apply with a brush directly onto the surface of your project. Although Triple Thick may not be dishwasher safe like some other sealants on the market, it does have a strong and durable finish that can withstand most wear and tear.

Epoxy Resin

This can be tedious and time-consuming. Plus, you’ll need to use the mixture immediately. In addition, epoxy resin can be quite pricey depending on the brand and type that you choose. There are many sealing products on the market today, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Some sealants can yellow over time, while others may not be compatible with the types of adhesive vinyl you use. Ultimately, the best sealant for your vinyl tumbler is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Cost Of Sealant

Triple Thick on the other hand is a lot cheaper than these two. An 8-ounce jar of this sealant will cost you around less than $10. Epoxy resin set costs around $30 for a 32-ounce variant. Ultimately, the cost of your sealant will depend on your specific needs. But whether you're looking to save money or ensure your tumbler vinyl lasts for years, investing in a quality sealant is a smart idea.

How To Choose The Best Sealant For Your Vinyl Tumbler

Tumbler You Use

The type of vinyl tumbler you have: Some tumblers are made with double-wall construction, while others have a single wall. Double-wall construction means there is an inner and outer layer of plastic with air in between. This creates insulation, so your beverage stays hot or cold longer. Single-wall construction means there is only one layer. These tumblers are less expensive but do not insulate as well. Often, stainless steel stumblers may need some sort of sealing.

How You Use It

How you plan to use your tumbler: If you are using your tumbler for hot beverages, you will need a different type of sealant than if you are using it for cold beverages. Hot beverages can cause the plastic to warp, so it is important to choose a sealant that can withstand high temperatures.

Wear And Tear Conditions

The environment you will be using your tumbler in: If you plan on using your tumbler outdoors, make sure to choose a sealant that is UV resistant. This will help prevent the color from fading and the plastic from cracking.

Process Of Sealing Vinyl On Tumblers

The process is simple, depending on the sealant you choose. First, gather your supplies.

• Tumblers with Your Vinyl Design already in place
• Rubbing alcohol
• Clean cloth
• Brush, if you’re using liquid instead of spray sealant
• Separate container
• Painter’s tape
• Of course, a sealant of your choice

Step 1: Cure The Adhesive Vinyl

Apply vinyl on your tumblers using the hinge method. Smoothen design with a scraping tool. Make sure the decal is in place before removing the paper backing.Then, cure the first. Let the adhesive vinyl cure or dry for hours or even days. To make sure these types of vinyl stick well, see the package instructions for more details. Don’t use or wash the tumbler after curing. Instead, proceed with sealing.

Step 2: Clean The Tumbler

Before using sealant, use rubbing alcohol with a clean cloth to remove remaining unwanted adhesives on the tumbler. Doing this will remove any residue that will prevent the sealant from adhering properly. The cloth should be damp, not soaked with the solvent. Let it dry for a few minutes.

Step 3: Apply Sealant On Your Vinyl Decal

Place a painter’s tape on the mount of the tumbler. This would prevent sealant from getting into the mouthpiece. Sealants might be dishwasher safe but they’re not really food-safe. In a separate container, pour a sufficient amount of sealant for the first coat in a separate container. This step applies for liquid sealant. Use a brush to coat the vinyl and tumbler.

Why do you need to pour a separate amount for every coating? To protect the remaining sealant from dust and other contaminants while you work on your current project. For spray form, you can proceed by spraying a thin layer first, instead of one thick layer. Let the first coat dry before applying or spraying the next layer. If you like a thick layer of sealant, allow a few hours of drying for each coat.

Step 4: Cure The Sealant

This is important to ensure the sealing process creates long-lasting protection for your adhesive vinyl tumbler. Curing days depend on the sealant you use. For Mod Podge, you might need 28 days before you can use your tumbler. Read the instructions carefully because every sealant has different curing days.

So, that’s it. You’re done with the sealing process and ready to drink from your new mug or tumbler. It’s painstakingly long but the result is worth it. With sealant as protection, the vinyl on your tumbler and even the tumbler itself can last for years. Some could even last 10 years or more before the sealant breaks down.

Tips On Keeping Sealed Vinyl Tumblers Last Long

Even with sealant, you still need to take care of your tumblers. Here are some tips for a longer-lasting adhesive vinyl on your cups and tumblers.

Hand Wash

Hand-washing is still the best way to handle your tumblers, especially for stainless steel. Avoid putting them in the dishwasher as much as possible. It’s not about the sealant but it’s the property of the tumbler. According to some, a dishwasher can interfere with the tumbler’s mechanism of keeping hot and cold beverages. So, hand-washed utensils with adhesive vinyl on them can last longer than those put in a dishwasher.

Intended Use

Tumblers are versatile utensils. But, if possible, use different tumblers for various purposes. If you’re going to use a tumbler for cold beverages, use a different one for hot drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Adhesive vinyl coming off your tumbler, mug, or dishware is certainly a nightmare for every crafter. Thus, applying vinyl with a transfer tape might not be enough even if you've used the best Cricut cutting machine and permanent vinyl. So, it’s still best to give an extra TLC by giving your tumblers a glossy coat.