How to Seal a Tumbler without Epoxy

Nick Shushan
By Nick Shusan , Epoxy Expert and the CEO of NYC Epoxy Flooring.

June 14, 2022

The use of epoxy in sealing tumblers makes them last longer, is water-resistant, and gives them a glossy look. However, its side effects outweigh its benefits. How? 

Overexposure to epoxy often leads to serious health conditions such as respiratory irritation, chemical burns, and dermatitis. 

Having these conditions isn’t the best option for anybody. So, how do you then seal your tumbler if epoxy is a problem? The answer to this question is very simple. You can seal your tumbler without using epoxy. This article shows you how to do that by suggesting some methods that are effective when sealing a tumbler without epoxy. 

Materials You Need

You can seal a material without utilizing epoxy through these materials. 

  • Stainless Tumbler
  • Glitter
  • Flat white paint
  • Flat black paint
  • Painter’s tape
  • Parchment paper
  • Mod podge or adhesive spray
  • Glue brush applicator
  • 91% rubbing alcohol
  • 320-grit sandpaper
  • Clear acrylic spray
  • Silicone brush
  • Paper towel
  • Acetone
  • Silicone baking liner
  • Condiment dispenser
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Mask and goggles

How to Seal Tumbler without Epoxy

You can utilize different methods when you want to use your tumbler without epoxy. The most prominent methods include CrystaLac, Clear Acrylic Spray, or the Mod Podge method. Each method has its pros and cons thereby enabling you to select one that works for you the most. 

Methods of Sealing Tumblers without Epoxy

  1. CrystaLac Method

The crystalac method is the most recommended method when you do not intend to use epoxy. It gives the tumbler the usual glossy appearance and doesn’t cause allergic reactions due to its water-based nature. Here is a detailed instruction on how to use this method for your tumbler.

Prepare the Tumbler

  • First, you have to prepare your tumbler by either sanding or washing it with a dishwashing liquid and water. In the absence of this, you can utilize a paper towel and 91% rubbing alcohol. The reason for this is to keep the tumbler. clean of any dirt, grease, or adhesives. Besides, cleaning ensures the process doesn’t affect the quality of the tumbler. 
  • Apply tape on the part you don’t want the epoxy to touch
  • Spray some paint and use it as the base color. Ensure you use flat paint that often comes in black or white. 

Apply Glitters

  • Here, you have to apply the mod podge with the brush applicator. If you don’t have a mod podge, you can use an adhesive spray.
  • Cover the tumbler with glitters and gently tap to release the excess glitters. If you notice a blank spot, add glitters and gently tap again. Ensure you do this till all your desired spots are covered with glitters and leave it to dry. 
  • Repeat the first two steps again
  • Spray the tumbler with an E6000 glue spray and apply some parchment paper to the glitters. Let it get dried for 24 hours. 

Apply CrystaLac

  • Apply a little CrystaLac to the covered tumbler and allow it to dry for about 4 hours. Repeat this process and sand. 
  • Continue to apply the CrystaLac and sand it, at most 2 layers Tull the right thickness is achieved. The typical application for the tumbler is between 8-10 layers. During this process, ensure you allow 4 hours of drying to happen during application. 
  • You can add the decals at least before the last two coats to seal the decals in the tumbler.
  • You should wipe off all excesses with a coffee filter and rub alcohol or acetone on the surface. Ensure you do this carefully to avoid damaging the surface of the tumbler.
  1. The Mod Podge Method

The mod podge method consists of two stages-  the gloss luster mod podge for the first three layers and the dishwasher-safe mod podge for the last two ones. Although the tumbler will be water-resistant, it isn’t safe with a dishwasher.

Instructions

  1. Sand and wash the tumbler to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned. Then, you can apply the flat paint as a base. 
  2. Apply the Mod Lodge with your brush applicator. Next, you can submerge it in glitter and let it get dry. 
  • Use a sponge to for the Mod Podge to prevent glitters from dusting off in the second and third layer
  • Wet sand the tumbler with 12-grit sandpaper and wash the excess dust. Leave it to dry
  • Apply the dishwasher-safe Mod Podge with a sponge applicator. 
  1. Clear Acrylic Spray Method

For this method, you will need an oven to make the clear acrylic spray last longer.

Instructions

  • Just like the other two methods, clean your tumbler to remove all dirt and grease. Apply tapes on the part you don’t want glitters.
  • Spray the tumbler with a final paint and let it dry.
  • Apply Mod Podge on the first layer of glitters and sand it lightly. Spray the Krylon Resplendent Red Glitter Shimmer on the next two layers. Let it dry. 
  • Apply and cover it with a clear gloss. Bake for about 5 minutes at 200°F. Repeat till you are satisfied with the finish. 

Conclusion

You don’t have to use epoxy when you want to seal your tumbler. They use these methods to get your desired result.