Graduation season is here, and what better way to celebrate your favorite graduate than with a custom, handmade gift? Today, I’m showing you how to use StyleTech Craft vinyl to create a beautiful DIY graduation tumbler — complete with a metallic “grad” and a vinyl graduation cap! It’s a simple project that’s packed with meaning and personalization.
DIY Graduation Tumbler Supplies List:
- Tumbler (stainless steel or acrylic work great)
- Metallized adhesive vinyl (for the “grad” text)
- Black (or your preferred color) adhesive vinyl (for the cap)
- Printable Cuttable Creatables graduation design file
- Cutting machine (Cricut, Silhouette, etc.)
- Weeding tools
- Transfer tape
- Rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth
Choose and Prepare Your Design
First, download a graduation-themed SVG file. Look for designs that have clean, simple lines — perfect for applying to a curved surface like a tumbler. For this project, you’ll need a design with the word “grad” and a graduation cap. Open the file in your cutting machine’s software and size it to fit your tumbler. I recommend making the word about 3–4 inches wide depending on the size of your tumbler.
Cut Your Vinyl
Load your metallic vinyl into your machine and cut out the “grad” word. Then, load your second sheet of vinyl (black or any color you like) and cut out the graduation cap.
Weed Your Design
Carefully remove the excess vinyl from around your designs using your weeding tools. Be sure all the small details stay in place — especially with the graduation cap!
Prepare the Tumbler
Before applying any vinyl, wipe the tumbler down with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth. This removes any oils, dust, or fingerprints and helps the vinyl stick better.
Apply the Vinyl
Use transfer tape to pick up your “grad” design first. Carefully center it on the tumbler and press it down, starting from the center and smoothing outward to avoid bubbles.
Next, repeat the process with the graduation cap. You can place the cap right above the “G” in “grad” for a playful, stylish look!
Finishing Touches
Gently remove the transfer tape by peeling it back slowly at a 45-degree angle. Press down on your vinyl with your fingers or a scraper tool to ensure it’s fully adhered.
Using StyleTech Craft vinyl makes it super easy to create professional-looking projects without the design stress. Plus, your graduate will love sipping from a custom tumbler that reminds them of all their hard work and bright future ahead!
Have fun creating — and congrats to all the grads!
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