Acrylic paint is a very popular medium that can be used on pretty much any surface. It offers vibrant and amazing colors, which allows you to personalize your art project. One popular craft that has been trending recently is customizing drinking cups, also known as tumblers. People paint their tumblers and even Starbucks tumblers to make their cup unique.
So, can you use acrylic paint on tumblers? Yes! Acrylic paint is the best type of paint to use on tumblers and cups. You may need to prime your surface in order for the paint to adhere best, and add a sealant after the paint dries in order to protect it from chipping.
In this article we go over everything you need to know for using acrylic paint on tumblers, and much more. Let’s read on!
How to Paint Tumblers With Acrylic Paint
The first thing you want to do is always try and prime your surface. I always recommend using a primer, which will make the acrylic paint adhere better to the surface.
Depending on your surface, if you miss applying primer to the area, the paint may run or streak which will ruin your project. I like to use Liquitex Gesso Primer, because it’s professional quality and it’s very durable.
Once you have applied your primer and allowed it to dry, you can start adding your paint to the tumbler. You can do designs, stencils, or just paint the entire tumbler. It’s important to use the right type of paintbrush if you are wanting to over a larger area.
I recommend applying the paint in layers to avoid a runny or uneven look. Using the right type of acrylic paint is also important to ensure your tumbler turns out great.
My favorite and top pick is always Arteza Acrylic Paints. They have so many different colors, and the quality is amazing! I usually use Arteza Paints for all my projects.
Once you have your design or solid cover painted on, you need to seal it to make sure the paint won’t chip or come off. You will need to make sure the paint has fully dried before you apply the varnish. I recommend waiting a full 12 hours before sealing your paint.
You can choose from a spray or brush-on varnish to seal your tumbler. I like to use Mod Podge, or Krylon if I’m spraying it on.
Whether you are brushing or spraying on the varnish, always make sure you are in a well ventilated area and spray at least 6 inches away. You can apply up to 3 coats, depending on how glossy you want the finished product to be.
The varnish will take anywhere between 6-24 hours to fully dry. Make sure your item is placed away from pets, kids or anything else it can come in contact with.
Can Acrylic Paint Be Used on Stainless Steel?
Yes, you can use acrylic paint on stainless steel tumblers as well. You can use a paint brush or even spray paint. Both works great for applying the paint, and prevent it form looking streaky. Just like with a regular tumbler, you will need to use a primer before you apply the paint.
Using a primer will ensure that your paint applies on evenly and smoothly, as well as make your paint look great. Liquitex is a great primer because it’s high quality and used by many artists.
Once the primer is dry, you can then add your acrylic paint. Just like the steps above, wait until the paint has fully dried before applying your varnish.
How Do You Paint Yeti Cups With Acrylic Paint?
Yeti cups are a popular tumbler that many people use, but sometimes they tend to come in solid or plain colors. You can definitely paint and personalize your Yeti cup with acrylic paint.
Painting a Yeti cup is just like painting regular tumblers. Make sure to follow all my tips and recommendations so it turns out great.
Is Acrylic Paint Waterproof?
Acrylic paint is not waterproof, unless you add a varnish that will make it waterproof. Since acrylic paint is water-based, it will naturally wash off in water.
In order to make your artwork waterproof, I recommend using Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Varnish. This type of sealant is for those painted mugs and cups that will be washed, so naturally it will make your acrylic paint waterproof.
If you don’t use a waterproof sealer, acrylic paint will wash off, peal or chip off eventually. You can also use an outdoors sealer if you plan on having your acrylic paint exposed to the outdoor weather.
How to Seal an Acrylic Painted Tumbler
After all that hard work of painting your tumbler, you want to make sure it’s protected. You can use either a brush on sealer, or a spray-on one. For the spray on sealer, you can use Krylon Sealer, and for a brush-on, I recommend using Mod Podge.
You will need to spray at least 6 inches away from he tumbler, and you can apply up to 3 coats if you feel its needed. usually with 2 coats you should be fine.
If you are brushing on Mod Podge, use a flat brush to get an even layer on the paint. With both varnishes, you will need to wait at least 12 hours before handling the tumbler. Once it’s dry you are ready to use it, so make sure that you get the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge. If it’s just for décor, you can use the regular sealer.
Final Thoughts
So, acrylic paint can definitely be used on tumblers. It has become a super popular hobby to personalize and paint tumblers nowadays. Many people use the Venti Cold cups form Starbucks since they are clear, and just paint away.
Remember to use a primer before you start painting, that way the paint will adhere properly to the surface. Also, you will want to seal your tumbler so it can be protected from chipping and flaking.
Make sure to follow all my tips and recommended products to ensure your acrylic painted tumbler turns out great! Also, don’t forget to check out my other articles for all your painting Q&A’s. Happy painting!