6 Best Epoxy Resin for Tumblers [Complete Tutorial]

Now, if you’ve decided to paint your favorite daily use item beautifully, adding a coat of epoxy resin can transform its look altogether. A tumbler is one such object which can be designed uniquely using a good-quality epoxy resin. 

Applying the resin gives a crystal-clear look to the tumbler and adds a glossy finish that you’ll love. You can even use it with different types of colors to create the look that you desire. 

But the market is flooded with a ton of products; as such, choosing a suitable resin becomes confusing. So, we’ve tried to clear your confusion by bringing you this carefully-curated list of the best options to consider. 

Do give it a read. 

Best Epoxy Resin For Tumblers

Here's the list of the 6 best epoxy resins for tumblers that will elevate your crafting game to new heights.

1. DR CRAFTY Clear Resin Crystal - Best for Accessory-rich Packaging

Make your tumblers more appealing than ever with this high-quality epoxy resin from Dr. Crafty. It instills more fun into your artwork, thanks to all the helpful accessories that come along with it. So, you can begin with the makeover for your tumbler right after the product arrives.

Why Did We Like It?

Using this product is the easiest; you just need to mix one part each of resin and hardener to make the perfect epoxy coating for your tumblers. Also, since you have 5 wooden sticks and convenient measuring cups for preparing the mix, it becomes almost effortless. 

Plus, a spreader made of durable plastic material makes sure that the finish is even. You even get a descriptive instruction manual to make the process smooth and free of any confusion. 

Moreover, the consistency of this resin gives just the crystal-clear look that you desire. Notably, its strong formula is what does the trick, as you get superior clarity, unlike the cloudy look that ordinary products provide. So, a friend who happens to visit your home will surely be marveled at the Tumblers.

What Could’ve Been Better?

If you use this resin with color, make sure that the amount of color used is minimum. That’s because adding greater amounts of color will make the surface rubbery. As such, the curing of the resin is ruined and it might take days to dry up. 

2. Pro Marine Supplies Epoxy Resin - Best for Glossy Finish

Our next pick for you is another great epoxy resin from Pro Marine, which accentuates your artwork in the best possible. So, you can lend an attractive glossy look to your tumbler with minimum effort. Note that this product comes in two 2-quart bottles containing the resin and the hardener.

Why Did We Like It?

We were impressed by the highly crystal clear look that this resin provided to the tumblers. In addition to this, the coating was very tough and perfectly resistant to scratches and water. Thus, you can rest assured that one coating will last for years to come. 

What’s more, the self-leveling formula of this product cures the coating within just 24 hours. This is unlike many of the ordinary products that take much longer to cure completely. Plus, it is also resistant to strong UV rays and hence prevents yellowing of the surface. 

Moreover, the formula that it uses is totally food-safe, so you can safely enjoy your coffee in the newly painted tumbler. Finally, this resin can be used very easily by mixing the hardener and resin in a 1:1 ratio.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Although we have no complaints regarding the efficiency of the product, we were a bit disappointed with the odor coming from the tumbler. It smelt like wet towels that are left outside to dry, but note that it fades away within a week of using the product. 

3. FGCI Superclear Epoxy - Best for UV Resistance

FGCI is one of the most well-known brands manufacturing epoxy resins and it uses premium-quality ingredients in its products. This resin from the brand is no different; it helps create the perfect artwork on a variety of surfaces. It is also equipped with advanced features that work to deliver the desired performance every time.

Why Did We Like It?

You’ll be glad to hear that this resin offers the best possible UV resistance to the coated surface. Its superior-grade additive formulation prevents yellowing and thus retains the 100% crystal-clear look of the tumbler. Ultimately, you can be sure that the finish will last longer than most other products. 

Furthermore, you get a super wet glossy finish with this resin that possesses an unparalleled depth. Note that it gives a stunning look to the tumbler, which is rare to find. Also, the resin is perfectly self-leveling, water, and scratch-resistant. 

In addition to this, the epoxy resin is suited for dispersing and accepting pigments of mica powder, alcohol inks, as well as liquid pigments. As such, you can integrate such pigments with this resin quite effectively to get just the look that you desire. 

What Could’ve Been Better?

We found that the product took longer to cure than other epoxy resins. As such, you’ll have to wait for 2 days or more to start using the Tumbler. However, it delivers efficient performance without any major issues. 

4. ENVIRITEX LITE

Born out of a user-friendly design and boasting a high gloss finish, Envirotex Lite ensures its spot as an invaluable partner for both budding and experienced tumbler artists alike. The coating cures into a thick, glossy aesthetic within 48 hours, an easy-to-use solution for those who are venturing into tumbler-making for the first time.

Why Did We Like It?

There's a palpable low odor attached to Envirotex Lite, which comfortingly aligns with the "minimal, not distinct" description given in Envirotex's USA Safety Data Sheet. Additionally, its claim of being FDA-compliant, when cured, indicates a respectable balance between product efficacy and standard compliance. On a functional note, it’s remarkably easy to work with and heat resistant — qualities that are especially helpful for first-timers.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The Achilles heel of Envirotex Lite lies in its propensity for yellowing under UV light exposure or with time. Despite this minor flaw, many resin artists continue to find joy in their creative endeavors with this resin, brushing off the yellowing as a character trait that can sometimes be offset with additions of glitter or mica powder.

5. INSPOP RESIN

InsPop, an epoxy resin heralded with high praise from its users, is another imperative consideration for both first-time tumbler creators and seasoned artists. Its thicker pour density results in a hard, glass-like finish that enhances the allure of your tumblers.

Why Did We Like It?

InsPop Resin marries functionality and aesthetics with its compatible nature with pigments and colorants, ensuring enhanced color stability. It's a self-leveling resin, a handy trait that guarantees a completely level surface on your tumblers upon curing. Furthermore, its usability expands beyond tumblers, with users being able to leverage it for making jewelry and geode resin art.

What Could’ve Been Better?

While InsPop Resin is mostly spot-on, it should be noted that, even though it's scratch-resistant, it’s not entirely scratch-proof. Also, you need to ensure a consistent temperature of 75-80F during the whole process to achieve perfect results, which might be challenging in some climates.

6. COUNTER CULTURE DIY

Counter Culture DIY, an epoxy resin acclaimed by tumbler artists globally, emanates an exquisite crystal-clear, glass-like finish that catches your eye and holds your attention. Its VOC-free and UV-resistant properties further strengthen its standing in the market.

Why Did We Like It?

The low to no-odor nature of Counter Culture DIY strikes a chord with tumbler artists seeking a sensory-friendly creative process. Its FDA compliance showcases its user priority, and it's UV-resistant, ensuring longevity in your finished projects. A heat resistance up to 500F completes an admirably comprehensive offering.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Unfortunately, Counter Culture DIY provides a somewhat restrictive 25-40 minute work time before it begins to cure, which might result in rushed artistry for some. Additionally, it requires mixing a minimum of 2 oz. of epoxy resin together to avoid soft or uncured resin finishes, which may not be as flexible for smaller projects.

Best Epoxy Resins for Tumbler Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Epoxy Resin for Tumbler

Choosing the right resin for your tumbler won’t seem complicated if you keep in mind a few points. These include some important features and also your needs and preferences. A product chosen hastily without checking the details might give you only partial results. So, let’s look at the key factors that must be considered before buying epoxy resin for tumblers. 

1. Ease Of use

The resin must not be too viscous to ensure that it can be poured easily into a measuring cup. Also, making the coat with the ideal resin is quite easy, as you just need to mix the hardener and the resin in a 1:1 ratio. Make sure you go through the information on ease of use while going through the details of a product. 

2. UV Resistance

This is a crucial factor in ensuring that the resin retains its clarity and glossy finish despite being exposed to sunlight. Good-quality epoxy resin is perfectly resistant to UV rays and will remain intact for years to come. Notably, UV resistance also helps prevent the yellowing of the surface. Hence, do remember to check the information on UV resistance in the product details. 

3. Odor

A disturbing and persistent odor can make the tumbler unfit for use. Hence, you should make sure that the epoxy resin doesn’t produce any foul odor. Note that the odor may disappear after a few days for good-quality products, while the time taken is longer for average products. 

4. Material Of The Tumbler

You can choose between many kinds of tumblers for applying an epoxy resin coating, but an insulated or double-walled one would be the best. That’s because they can suffice temperatures of more than 50°C or 120°F. 

Heat resistance is important since hot beverages like coffee or hot chocolate might cause weaker tumblers to soften. But an insulated one will remain intact and will also be easy to hold as the exterior stays cool.

Notably, stainless steel tumblers are best for applying resin, since it doesn’t even have to be coated with spray paint. You can use colors, so it entirely depends on your choice. 

As for plastics, they are not an efficient choice when it comes to tumblers. Resin doesn’t adhere to plastic fully and can peel off over time. However, if you prefer plastic to any other material, remember to use a plastic-compatible spray to make sure the resin stays. 

On the other hand, ceramic and glass can absorb heat quickly, which might soften the resin. As an alternative, you can use tumblers that have the interior made from glass but an exterior of stainless steel. 

Epoxy Resins for Tumbler FAQ's

What is epoxy resin, and why is it used for tumblers?

Epoxy resin is a type of polymer that, when mixed with a hardener, forms a hard and durable coating. It is used for tumblers because it provides a glossy, smooth, and protective finish that enhances the appearance and durability of the tumbler.

How long does it take for epoxy resin to cure on a tumbler?

The curing time of epoxy resin can vary depending on the brand and product. Generally, epoxy resins for tumblers take around 24 to 72 hours to fully cure. It’s important to allow the recommended curing time for optimal results.

Can epoxy resin be used on stainless steel tumblers?

Yes, epoxy resin can be used on stainless steel tumblers. However, it’s important to ensure that the tumbler surface is clean, dry, and properly prepared before applying the epoxy resin for better adhesion.

How do I achieve a smooth and bubble-free epoxy resin finish on my tumbler?

To achieve a smooth and bubble-free epoxy resin finish, it’s important to mix the resin and hardener thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, using a heat gun or torch to carefully remove any air bubbles that may appear on the surface can help achieve a flawless finish.

Will epoxy resin yellow over time on a tumbler?

High-quality epoxy resins that are specifically formulated for crafts and contain UV inhibitors are less likely to yellow over time. However, it’s important to choose a resin that is known for its resistance to yellowing to ensure the longevity of your tumbler’s appearance.

Conclusion

That’s all the time we have for you today. We hope things will seem easier to you now, and you’ll be able to make a suitable choice.

But before we bring down the curtains, let us take you through our favorites from the list. In our opinion, the best budget buy is the DR CRAFTY Clear Epoxy Resin Crystal.

However, if you don’t mind spending a bit more to provide the perfect look to your tumbler, Pro Marine Supplies Epoxy Resin will be an ideal choice. 

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