Create a heat sublimation snow globe tumbler with this pre-drilled glass tumblers! Sublimate the image onto the glass and then fill it with the glitter solution. Here’s how to do it!
Before we delve into the step-by-step process, let’s first understand what sublimation snow globe tumblers are. Actually called “glass can“, but I’ve seen a lot of people refer to them as glass tumblers, so we’ll use that terminology here, and the nice thing about these specially treated glass tumblers is that they have pre-drilled holes in the bottom, For adding glitter solution, No need to Individual Turn Hole like other glass tumblers.
These DIY snow globe tumbler make great gifts, and they’re perfect for selling, because they are so beautiful and unique that you can charge a premium price!
Now, let’s learn about the ingredients needed to make heat sublimation snow globe tumbler:
- Sublimation snow globe tumbler
- Sublimation printer
- Sublimation paper
- Tumbler heat press
- Heat-resistant tape
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Butcher paper
- Butcher paper
- Chunky glitter
- Plastic syringe
- Vegetable glycerin
If you collect the required materials then get started!
Sublimation galss tumbler
You can choose any pattern you like on the glass! Using graphic design software of your choice, create a design that fits the dimensions of your tumbler. Take into consideration the area around the pre-drilled hole as this will be covered by the snow globe insert. Keep in mind that your design should be mirrored before printing onto the sublimation paper.
Use heat resistant tape to secure your image to the glass tumbler, the top and bottom do not need to be secured, Because as the glass tumbler does not appear tapered.
Add butcher paper and press in a drum press at 360° for 120 seconds. Then rotate the drum in the press 180° and press for another 120 seconds. After cooling, remove the butcher paper and transfer paper to reveal the sublimation glass!
Add glitter solution
After many hands on projects I have found that what works best is 50% each of water and vegetable glycerin, I have also tried clear glue but only the combination of water and glycerin works best.
Mix the two liquids together at 50% (you’ll need about 4 ounces), if it’s not enough you can just add more, when you first start mixing you’ll notice it’s uneven, but they’ll eventually blend together seamlessly.
Then use a syringe to draw up the mixed solution, carefully aiming the syringe nozzle into the hole in the bottom of the glass tumbler, at which point the tumbler can be tilted slightly so that the solution can run down the inside of the glass.
Then after that we’re going to add the glitter by pouring the glitter onto a glass tumbler and then sweeping it into the holes with a small brush, I think that’s the easiest way to do it.
Note: You want to fill the glass as much as possible to avoid air bubbles.
Sealed bottom turn hole
As a final step, once you’ve filled the glass, clean the bottom to remove the solution and glitter.
To seal the hole in the tumbler’s bottom, we’ll employ UV resin, a user-friendly material that doesn’t require mixing two components like casting/epoxy resin. It cures under UV light, hence its opaque packaging to prevent premature curing.
Uncap the UV resin bottle and squeeze a small amount over the tumbler’s hole.
It is sufficient to irradiate the surface of the resin with a UV lamp for two minutes.
Finally you will need to test the glass tumbler to make sure there are no leaks and then put the quilt and straw back in and you have a beautiful heat sublimation snow globe tumbler!
FAQ
Common queries about sublimation snow globe tumblers:
The entire process, from designing to sealing the tumbler, typically takes around 3-4 hours. This includes printing, pressing, adding the glitter solution, and sealing the bottom.
While distilled water is recommended for the glitter solution, regular tap water can be used. However, using distilled water helps prevent potential mineral deposits on the inside of the tumbler.
High-resolution images with vibrant colors and clear details work best for sublimation. Avoid intricate designs around the pre-drilled hole area, as it will be covered by the snow globe insert.
Sublimation works best on clear glass tumblers to ensure the accurate transfer of the design. Colored glass may alter the colors of the sublimated image.
Yes, you can add custom text, but it’s recommended to keep the font size above 12pt to ensure legibility after sublimation. Experiment with bold fonts for better results.
A properly sealed sublimation tumbler can last for years. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the integrity of the design and glitter solution.
Sublimating on curved glass tumblers is possible, but it requires careful alignment during the pressing process. Straight tumblers are generally easier for beginners.