Create Stunning Custom Epoxy Tumblers with Marble and Glitter

The Art of Creating Custom Epoxy Tumblers

Epoxy resin has become an increasingly popular material for creating unique, custom tumblers. Often combined with decorative touches like glitters, dyes, dried flowers or marble powder, epoxy allows you to make one-of-a-kind drinkware that is as beautiful as it is functional.

What is Epoxy?

Epoxy is a two-part adhesive product, consisting of an epoxy resin and a polyamine hardener. When combined, an exothermic chemical reaction occurs, allowing the liquid material to cure into a hard, durable plastic that is commonly used as a sealant and bonding agent across many industries.

For crafting purposes, epoxy resins provide an ultra clear finish that allows other decorative materials layered underneath it to shine through brightly. The end result of an epoxy tumbler is a smooth, glass-like drinking vessel that feels lovely in the hand and makes a statement wherever it's set down.

Creating Marble Epoxy Tumblers

One of the most sought-after epoxy tumbler styles incorporates a "marbled" appearance. This striking look blends and swirls colored epoxy and particles together for a unique finish.

To make a marble epoxy tumbler you'll need:

• A standard 20 or 30 oz stainless steel tumbler
• Epoxy resin and hardener
• Liquid or powder dye colors
• Decorative chips, glitters or powders like marble powder
• Disposable mixing containers and stir sticks
• Gloves and masks for safety

The process involves first coating the inside of the tumbler with epoxy. Allow that base layer to become tacky before adding and layering the dyed epoxy, marble powder and other decorative particles by pouring and swirling them in the cup. Finally, top everything off with another layer of clear epoxy to fully seal the design.

Customizing Epoxy Tumblers

Another popular technique is to fully customize epoxy tumblers with meaningful designs. You can create custom lettered tumblers by applying vinyl decals to the interior cup walls before pouring the epoxy. Other options are to attach meaningful charms or decorative touches like faux flowers or glitter shapes using a small amount of epoxy as "glue."

When customizing, make sure any items are fully sealed into a layer of epoxy so they don’t come loose inside the cup. The sealing epoxy protects the design and allows for a fully smooth inner surface that’s easy to wash.

Tips for Working with Epoxy

Creating gorgeous, unique epoxy tumblers is easy and fun with just a bit of practice. Here are some top tips to help you get started:

Prep Your Workspace

Epoxy can get messy, so lay down plastic sheeting or cardboard to protect your work surface. Cover any nearby walls as well. Gather all your tools in advance so you have them nearby as you work.

Work Quickly

Mixed epoxy begins curing immediately and the working time is limited before it starts to thicken and become unusable. Work swiftly once parts A and B are combined. Have all other materials ready to go so you can layer colors and designs rapidly.

Stir Thoroughly

Properly mixing the two epoxy parts together is crucial for it to cure fully. Stir slowly and deliberately for at least 3 full minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of your mixing container several times to ensure it’s fully incorporated.

Avoid Bubbles

Bubbles easily form when mixing and pouring epoxy quickly. Use a propane torch on a low flame setting to carefully pass over the epoxy to help pop bubbles after each pour. This allows filler powders to rise while minimizing bubbles in your finished piece.

Seal Properly

Always finish your design with a layer of clear, glossy epoxy. This seals in any decorative fillers and provides a thick, even surface layer that cures to an ultra-smooth finish. Use enough to fully coat and dome the top of your tumbler.

Curing and Finishing Epoxy Tumblers

Allow your sealed tumbler to cure fully for 24-48 hours in a dust-free area around room temperature before attempting to unmold it. The final step is wet sanding and polishing it for an ultra glossy finish.

Unmolding

Wearing gloves, gently wiggle and slide the cured epoxy out of the stainless steel tumbling cup. This may take some effort if you used excessive epoxy on the bottom where it adheres as it cured.

Sanding

Wet sand to smooth away any small bumps or drips in the epoxy finish. Always keep the glass wet as you sand using 400, 800 and finally 1500 grit sandpaper.

Polishing

Finish by buffing the sanded epoxy by hand or using a polishing wheel attachment on a rotary tool like a Dremel. The heat generated helps bring the finish to a crystal clear, mirror-like shine. Apply polish in small circular motions until glossy smooth.

FAQs

What types of tumblers can I use with epoxy resin?

Standard 20-30 oz stainless steel tumblers work best as a base for epoxy tumblers. The smooth steel surface allows the epoxy to peel away cleanly after curing. Be sure to get a style with a removable snap-on lid so you can access the interior.

How long does epoxy resin take to cure?

Cure times vary by brand, but most epoxy resins become solid within 24 hours when kept at room temperature. Allow 48 hours for a full, hard cure before attempting to unmold your finished tumbler.

Can I reuse leftover epoxy resin?

Mixed epoxy resin begins curing immediately and continues to harden over time in its container. So hardened leftover resin cannot be re-mixed and reused on another project. Always prepare only enough for a specific project.

How do I clean epoxy tumblers?

The glossy epoxy seal makes custom tumblers very easy to clean. Simply wash by hand with warm, soapy water and avoid abrasive scrubbing. Though durable, chips and cracks can still form so handle gently when washing.