How to Make Custom Tumblers Using Seal Fabric and Resin - Step-by-Step DIY Guide

An Introduction to Using Seal Fabric for Tumblers

Using seal fabric to create beautiful, durable tumblers has become an increasingly popular craft trend. By coating actual fabric with a liquid sealant like Poxy Seal, you can achieve a smooth, glossy texture on your tumblers that is both stylish and functional. In this article, we'll walk through everything you need to know to start embellishing your tumblers with seal fabric.

Choosing Your Fabric

The first step is picking out your fabric. The type of textile you select will impact the overall look and durability of your sealed tumbler. Consider variables like fabric thickness, stretch, and texture:

• Thicker fabrics like canvas will create a smooth, molded look while lightweight fabrics may show the texture of the tumbler underneath.
• Fabrics with stretch like jersey knits can be tricky to work with and may pucker when sealed.
• Textured fabrics will add visual interest while flat fabrics offer a smoother finish.

For best results, opt for a medium-weight, non-stretch fabric with acomplementary texture. Cotton, linen, and knit fabrics tend to yield great outcomes.

Preparing Your Fabric

Once you've selected your fabric, you'll need to properly prepare it before sealing. Here are some tips for prepping your textile:

• Wash and dry your fabric to preshrink it before applying sealant.
• Iron the fabric until smooth and free of wrinkles and folds.
• Cut your fabric to size allowing for 1-2 inches of overhang around the tumbler.
• Fray Check or hem fabric edges to prevent unraveling.

Taking the time to pre-treat and cut your fabric will result in a smooth, professional finish.

Choosing Your Sealant

The key product that makes seal fabric possible is the liquid sealant. Popular options like Poxy Seal are two-part epoxy resins that cure to a thick, glossy coating.

When selecting a sealant, consider:

• Ease of Use - Opt for sealants with a 1:1 mixing ratio.
• Cure Time - Faster curing times (12-24 hrs) offer less opportunity for error.
• Finish - Glossy sealants lend a sleek, polished look.
• Color - Clear sealants work best for showcasing fabric patterns.

Be sure to choose a sealant designed specifically for sealing and coating like Poxy Seal. Follow all label directions carefully.

Applying the Sealant

Once your fabric and sealant are prepped, you're ready to coat your tumbler! Follow this simple sealing process:

1. Clean and dry your tumbler thoroughly to remove grease and lint.
2. Place your cut fabric over the tumbler, smoothing out wrinkles and folds.
3. Mix your sealant according to package directions and apply a thin, even base coat.
4. Allow the base coat to semi-cure for 5-10 minutes.
5. Apply a second coat of sealant over the fabric, working to saturate it completely.
6. Remove any drips or excess sealant with a disposable brush.
7. Allow sealant to fully cure per package instructions before use.

Take care when applying your top coat to fully encapsulate the fabric. This prevents moisture from penetrating the tumbler. Avoid over-handling the sealant as it cures.

Finishing Your Sealed Tumbler

Once cured, your custom seal fabric tumbler is ready to use! Consider these final steps:

• Gently remove any loose fabric fibers or lint with tweezers.
• Smooth any bumps or ridges by gently sanding cured sealant.
• Finish with a clear acrylic spray sealant for added protection.
• Stitch fabric around bottom edge for a clean look.
• Add other embellishments like vinyl, HTV, or gems!

Your handcrafted, fabric coated tumbler makes a fabulous personalized gift or trendy addition to your own barware collection. Enjoy showing off your crafty skills!

FAQs About Seal Fabric

Sealing fabric is an innovative crafting technique. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What types of tumblers can I coat with seal fabric?

You can seal fabric onto stainless steel, plastic, glass, and other solid surface tumblers. Avoid using sealant on more delicate materials like ceramics.

How do I clean a sealed fabric tumbler?

Use mild dish soap and warm water, avoiding abrasive scouring pads. Don't soak sealed tumblers as moisture can penetrate fabric over time.

How long does sealant last on tumblers?

With proper care, sealant can last 1-2 years or more. Avoid prolonged UV light exposure to prevent fading and yellowing of the sealant.

Can I reuse sealed fabric from tumblers?

It's best to use new fabric each time. Once removed, the reused fabric will have a chopped up appearance.

What if sealant gets onto parts of the tumbler I don't want coated?

You can use 99% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton pad or toothbrush to gently clean uncured sealant off surfaces. Be cautious not to smear the sealant.

Get Creative with Seal Fabric!

Sealing fabric allows you to turn basic tumblers into works of art! With the right textile, sealant, and technique, you can craft gorgeous barware that’s sure to impress. Try out different fabric patterns and textures to make each tumbler unique. Gift your creations or enjoy drinking in style with your custom sealed fabric tumbler.

FAQs

Can I use wood glue instead of resin to seal fabric?

Wood glue is not recommended as a seal fabric sealant. It will not cure to a thick, protective coating like resin. Most wood glues also dry opaque rather than clear.

What kind of epoxy resin works best?

Look for a two-part epoxy resin specially formulated for coating and sealing like Poxy Seal or Art Resin. Avoid structural epoxies used for bonding.

Should I seal both sides of the fabric?

Only one side of the fabric needs to be sealed. Apply sealant to the outward facing side for the best look. The tumbler surface will seal the inner fabric side.

Can I reuse disposable brushes and cups?

It's best to use fresh disposable brushes and mixing cups each time you work with resin. Sealant can cure inside used brushes affecting future batches.

Is seal fabric waterproof?

Sealed fabric tumblers can hold liquids but may not be 100% waterproof, especially over time. Avoid prolonged soaking and handwash sealed pieces.