How to Put Vinyl on Mugs + Vinyl Test & Cute Designs!

Jennifer Maker18 minutes read

Jennifer Maker demonstrates how to put vinyl on mugs, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right mug and design for a smooth application process. Various types of vinyl were tested, with ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl recommended for long-term durability on mugs.

Insights

  • Choosing straight-sided mugs over highly curved ones is crucial for easier vinyl application, ensuring designs curve smoothly around the surface without creases.
  • ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl are recommended as top choices for vinyl on mugs due to their durability and performance, surpassing other types like heat transfer vinyl in longevity and dishwasher resistance.

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Recent questions

  • How do you choose the right mug for vinyl application?

    The key factor in choosing the right mug for vinyl application is the shape of the mug. Straight-sided mugs are easier to work with compared to highly curved ones. This is because designs need to be able to curve around the mug's surface smoothly, and highly curved mugs can make this process more challenging. Therefore, when selecting a mug for vinyl application, opt for one with a straight-sided design for better results.

  • What is the importance of cleaning the mug's surface before applying vinyl?

    Cleaning the mug's surface with rubbing alcohol before applying the vinyl decal is crucial for better adhesion. A clean surface ensures that the vinyl adheres properly to the mug, preventing any peeling or lifting over time. By removing any dirt, oils, or residue from the surface, the vinyl can bond more effectively, resulting in a longer-lasting and more professional-looking final product.

  • Which types of vinyl are recommended for applying on mugs?

    The recommended types of vinyl for applying on mugs are ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl. These vinyl options have shown better durability and performance when tested on mugs, especially in terms of long-term adhesion and resistance to dishwasher use. By choosing high-quality vinyl like ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl, you can ensure that your vinyl designs on mugs will last longer and maintain their appearance over time.

  • What are the key steps for applying vinyl on mugs?

    The key steps for applying vinyl on mugs include cutting out the vinyl design, weeding out any excess vinyl, and using transfer tape for application onto the mug. Additionally, cleaning the mug's surface with rubbing alcohol before applying the vinyl decal is essential for better adhesion. By following these steps carefully and precisely, you can achieve a smooth and professional-looking vinyl design on your mug.

  • Which type of vinyl is preferred for long-term durability on mugs?

    Adhesive vinyl, specifically ORACAL 651 permanent outdoor vinyl, is the preferred type of vinyl for long-term durability on mugs. This type of vinyl has shown better results in terms of adhesion, resistance to dishwasher use, and overall longevity when applied to mugs. By choosing ORACAL 651 permanent outdoor vinyl for your mug designs, you can ensure that your vinyl creations will maintain their quality and appearance for an extended period.

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Summary

00:00

Vinyl on Mugs: Tips for Success

  • Jennifer Maker presents a tutorial on putting vinyl on mugs, a popular request due to the trend of personalized mugs as gifts.
  • Choosing the right mug is crucial, with straight-sided mugs being easier to work with than highly curved ones.
  • Design selection is key, with designs needing to be able to curve around the mug's surface smoothly.
  • Demonstrates the difference between a design with a circle around it and one without, showing how the former causes creases on curved surfaces.
  • Instructions on cutting out vinyl, weeding, and using transfer tape for application on mugs.
  • Cleaning the mug's surface with rubbing alcohol before applying the vinyl decal for better adhesion.
  • Testing various types of vinyl on mugs, including adhesive vinyl and heat transfer vinyl, with varying results.
  • Heat transfer vinyl application requires high heat and pressure, with mixed success and potential issues with adherence.
  • Dishwasher test results show some vinyl types fared better than others, with ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl recommended for longevity.
  • Recommendations on the best vinyl types for mugs, including ORACAL 651 and Cricut Premium Vinyl, based on durability and performance.

14:14

Vinyl durability and application on mugs

  • Two types of heat transfer vinyl were tested: Cricut Stronghold iron-on vinyl and Siser Easyweed vinyl, with both failing the dishwasher test.
  • The more durable options were Cricut gold glitter vinyl and Siser black glitter vinyl, but long-term durability was still questioned.
  • The preferred vinyl for mugs is adhesive vinyl, specifically ORACAL 651 permanent outdoor vinyl.
  • Detailed instructions were provided for creating a simple face design on a mug using layered vinyl.
  • A unicorn design on a mug required four types of vinyl, including printable vinyl for intricate designs, with step-by-step guidance on layering and application.
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