Do you have an old cup that you would like to improve a little? You can add an image to create a fun project and liven it up at the same time. Whether it's a family photo or a funny writing, you can transfer the decoration of your choice onto the ceramic; but if you are not a DIY lover, you are still lucky! There are countless websites where you can order a mug with the custom print of your choice.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Make a Photo Mug at Home
Step 1. Get a cup
The first thing to do is find one that you would like to customize. You can use any cup you like; however, you should take into account the color, shape and texture of the surface. In general, those with a smooth finish and a regular shape are the most suitable; Plus, solid color patterns that match the colors of the image make the photograph stand out better.
- It is not easy to attach pictures to cups that have protrusions or a rough surface.
- Those that have unusual shapes can warp the photo.
Step 2. Find an image to use
Once you have identified the object to customize, you can select one of the photographs you prefer; you can use any image. Have fun finding the one that fits you best.
- The image may need to be in digital format to be able to print it easily.
- You must print the photograph.
Step 3. Check the dimensions
Before printing it and transferring it to the mug, you should check the size of the photograph to make sure it is compatible with the size of the object. If it is too big or too small, the end result will be very different from what you planned.
- It can be helpful to measure the space of the mug you want to dedicate to the photo before printing it.
- Most printers allow you to view a "preview", which also shows the actual size of the image.
- If the photo is too big or too small, you will need to adapt it.
Step 4. Print the image using transfer paper
When the photo is ready, you should put some special transfer paper in the printer; these are special sheets that allow the photo to adhere to the cup permanently. Make sure you put this type of paper in the printer and not the normal ones before proceeding.
- You can easily purchase the transfer paper sheets online.
- The large chains of office supplies and IT products probably also sell this kind of paper; check out the shelves dedicated to printers.
Step 5. Spray the sheet with clear acrylic polish
Some types of transfer paper are already coated with a sealant; however, if the sheets you purchased are not pre-treated, you need to apply a coat of spray polish after printing the image. This way, the decoration lasts longer and you can even put the cup in the dishwasher.
- You can find clear acrylic nail polish at most paint shops and home improvement stores.
- Probably, even the big supermarkets sell it.
- Be careful to spray the entire image.
- Let the polish dry for a long time before continuing. The necessary period depends on the type of nail polish you used, in some cases it takes just a few minutes, in others it takes hours.
Step 6. Cut out the image and put it in water, soak
When the acrylic polish has dried, you can crop the photo by removing the rest of the paper you don't need. Once the image has the shape and size you want, put it in water for a few minutes; in this way, you prepare it to be transferred to the cup.
- Fill a small bowl with water;
- Soak the image after cropping it;
- Check that all the photography is immersed;
- It needs to soak for about a minute before it can be transferred to the cup.
Step 7. Apply the image and wait for it to dry
At the end of the minute, the sheet is ready to be placed on the cup; remove the photograph from the water, remove the protective film and adhere the image to the ceramic. You can change the position slightly before it dries, so you don't have to worry about being perfect on the first try.
- When you are happy with the placement, wait for the photo to dry.
- Depending on the type of paper you used, some images take longer to dry than others.
- Read the instructions on the packaging of the sheets to know the exact drying times.
Step 8. Wash the cup
Once the image is dry, you need to wash the cup before using it, in order to get rid of any residue that may have remained during the process; when it is perfectly clean, you can start using it and enjoying the new decoration.
Method 2 of 2: Order a Photo Mug
Step 1. Compare prices
There are several companies that print images on mugs; however, not all of them are priced the same and you may find that some are cheaper than others. Take some time to compare the quality and cost of various services before choosing one.
- Many printing services are available online.
- Make sure there are no "hidden" costs; for example, the price of the cup alone may be advertised, while the price of the press is a separate item.
- You may be able to find discount codes or coupons.
Step 2. Have the photo file handy
Almost all printing services require the image in digital format. You need to upload the file you want to use before the company can create the custom mug. Remember that the image probably has to meet some format requirements; he takes the time to re-read the company's requests in order to make the cup.
- The photograph must be in digital format;
- It may be necessary to respect certain dimensions; the image must fit the printer specifications regarding width and length.
- Some services only use a certain type of file; check that the format of your image is accepted, before uploading it to the site.
Step 3. Register on the site and choose a product
When the photograph is ready and you have found a printing service you like, you can create an account and select the mug you want. Most of these websites ask for some basic information during the registration process. After creating your account, you can find the mug model you'd like to put the photo on and start the ordering process.
- You will likely need to provide an email address, shipping address, and payment information.
- Many internet sites offer a wide range of cups on which they can transfer the image; take some time to find the one you like best.
Step 4. Upload the photo
Once you've found your favorite mug, you need to upload the image you want to use to personalize it. Most online services have an unambiguous button or option that allows you to upload the photograph to use; typically, the file you upload is used to create a preview image and get an idea of the final result.
- If the photo doesn't fit the mug properly, you can change its size or edit it.
- Always check the preview before proceeding with the order, because you need to be sure that the mug is the way you want it.
- If you run into difficulties, most online services have a customer support center that you can contact if in doubt.
Step 5. Order the cup
If you have uploaded the photo and are satisfied with the result you see in the preview, you just have to complete the order; at the end of the procedure the company produces the personalized mug for you and sends it to your address after making it. Consider these factors when placing your order:
- Read carefully the rules regarding returns and refunds, in case the package is lost or the mug breaks during shipping.
- Most packages are shipped with a tracking number that allows you to track your journey to your address.
- Check carefully the details of the order before accepting it; please make sure the shipping address is correct and that you have typed the right amount of cups.
