How to Apply UV DTF Decals to Tumblers, Glass and Mugs

UV DTF decals are peel-and-stick, but a few small habits make the difference between a decal that looks printed on and one with bubbles or lifted edges. Here is the method we use on our own samples.

What you need

  • Your UV DTF decal or cup wrap
  • Rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth
  • A squeegee, old gift card or credit card
  • Scissors, if several decals share one film

Step 1: Clean the surface

Wipe the tumbler, glass or mug with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely. Skip soap; it can leave a film that weakens the bond. Keep fingers off the area you are about to cover.

Step 2: Cut and position

Cut around the decal, leaving a small margin of film. Peel the paper backing off; the design stays on the clear top film. Hold it by the edges, line it up and lay it down from one side to the other rather than dropping it flat, so air can escape.

Step 3: Rub it down

Rub the whole design firmly with the squeegee or card, working from the center outward. Spend extra time on edges, fine lines and small text. This is the step that makes the decal permanent, so do not rush it.

Step 4: Peel the top film

Peel the clear film away slowly at a low angle, close to the surface. If any part of the design lifts with the film, lay the film back down, rub that spot again and continue.

Step 5: Let it set

Wait 24 hours before washing or filling with hot liquid. After that the decal is water-resistant and scratch-resistant for daily use.

Tips for curved tumblers and cup wraps

  • Match the wrap to the cup: our pre-sized wraps are made for 16 oz glass cans and 20 oz and 40 oz tumblers.
  • Start by sticking a 1-inch strip of the wrap in the middle, then work outward in both directions, smoothing as you go.
  • On tapered cups, apply the top edge first and let the bottom edge follow the curve.
  • Rub the seam where the two ends meet a second time.

Care

  • Hand wash with a soft sponge. Dishwashers, long soaks and abrasive pads shorten the life of any decal.
  • Avoid picking at edges; a well-rubbed decal has no edge to catch.
  • Store spare decals flat, away from heat and sunlight, and apply them within a few months.

Fixing common problems

Bubbles

Small bubbles usually flatten after a day. For larger ones, prick the bubble with a pin and press the air out toward the hole.

Design lifted with the top film

The surface was not clean or the decal was not rubbed enough. Lay the film back down, rub firmly and peel again, more slowly.

Edge peeling after washing

The decal was washed before it set, or it was put in a dishwasher. Rub the edge down again and keep it dry for 24 hours.

Which surfaces work?

Stainless steel, glass, ceramic, acrylic, coated metal, hard plastic and sealed wood. Rough, porous or flexible surfaces (unsealed wood, fabric, silicone, textured plastic) are not recommended. For fabric, use DTF transfers; see DTF vs UV DTF.

Need decals? Upload your design and order by size, with no minimum and same-day shipping on business-day orders placed by 2 PM ET.

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