Tumbler Resin Calculator
Calculate exact epoxy for glitter tumblers and custom tumbler coating.
Supports multiple coats and batch production for Etsy sellers.
No sign-ups. Instant results.
💡 Tip: Use a cup turner for even coating. Shop FDA-compliant tumbler epoxy.
Example calculation
Let's calculate epoxy for a standard glitter tumbler:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Tumbler size | 20oz skinny tumbler |
| Coating height | 180mm |
| Diameter | 75mm |
| Number of coats | 3 coats (glitter coverage) |
| Quantity | 1 tumbler |
| Add 15% buffer | Yes |
| Total epoxy needed | 200 ml (or 210 grams) |
Calculation: Surface area × coating thickness × 3 coats × 1.15 buffer = 200ml
Common tumbler sizes & epoxy amounts
| Tumbler Type | Dimensions | Per Coat | 3 Coats Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12oz Wine Tumbler | 120mm H × 85mm D | 45ml | 135ml (155ml with buffer) |
| 20oz Skinny Tumbler | 180mm H × 75mm D | 58ml | 174ml (200ml with buffer) |
| 30oz Tumbler | 215mm H × 85mm D | 78ml | 234ml (269ml with buffer) |
| 40oz Tumbler (XL) | 260mm H × 90mm D | 100ml | 300ml (345ml with buffer) |
💡 Most popular: 20oz skinny tumbler (standard size for glitter tumblers)
Glitter tumbler making tips
🔄 Use a cup turner
A cup turner is essential. Rotate for 6-8 hours per coat to prevent drips and ensure even coverage.
✨ Seal glitter first
Apply Mod Podge or spray sealer over glitter before epoxy. This prevents glitter from floating in the epoxy.
📏 Thin coats are better
Multiple thin coats cure better than one thick coat. Each coat should be just enough to cover—excess epoxy creates drips.
🕐 Wait between coats
Let each coat cure 4-6 hours before applying the next. Tacky surface ensures good adhesion between coats.
🛒 Shop supplies: Blank Tumblers • Epoxy Resin • Glitter Sets
Step-by-step tumbler coating guide
Preparation (Day 1 - Morning)
1. Prep the tumbler: Clean with rubbing alcohol. Apply glitter using spray adhesive or Mod Podge. Let dry completely (2-4 hours).
2. Seal the glitter: Spray with clear sealer or brush on thin layer of Mod Podge. This prevents glitter from bleeding into epoxy. Let dry 1-2 hours.
First Coat (Day 1 - Evening)
3. Mix epoxy: Calculate amount for first coat using this calculator. Mix Part A and Part B thoroughly for 3-5 minutes. Let sit 5 minutes to release bubbles.
4. Apply first coat: Pour epoxy over tumbler while rotating on cup turner. Use gloved hand or brush to spread evenly. Remove any drips with your finger.
5. Rotate for 6-8 hours: Keep tumbler on turner until epoxy is no longer tacky. Pop any bubbles with butane torch within first 30 minutes.
Additional Coats (Day 2-3)
6. Apply second & third coats: Wait 4-6 hours between coats. Each coat should cure to tacky stage before next coat. Repeat mixing and application process. Glitter should be fully sealed after 2-3 coats.
7. Final clear coats: Apply 1-2 clear epoxy coats over sealed glitter for ultra-smooth finish. These final coats don't need colorant—just clear epoxy.
Finishing (Day 4)
8. Let cure fully: Wait 72 hours after final coat before using or packaging. Tumbler will continue to harden during this time.
Tumbler resin calculator FAQs
How much resin do I need for a glitter tumbler?
A standard 20oz tumbler needs approximately 60-80ml of epoxy per coat. For a typical glitter tumbler with 2-3 coats plus a final clear coat, you'll need 200-320ml total. Always mix 10-15% extra to avoid running short mid-coat. Use this calculator to get exact amounts for your tumbler size and number of coats.
How many coats of epoxy for a tumbler?
Most glitter tumblers need 2-3 coats of epoxy to fully seal the glitter, followed by 1-2 clear top coats for a smooth finish. Each coat should cure 4-6 hours before applying the next. Total project time is 12-24 hours spread over 2-3 days. Thin coats cure better than thick coats and prevent drips.
What type of resin is best for tumblers?
Use FDA-compliant food-safe epoxy resin designed for tumblers and drinkware. Popular brands include ProMarine Supplies Table Top Epoxy and KS Epoxy. The epoxy must cure hard enough to withstand washing and should be self-leveling for smooth application. Avoid UV resin—it doesn't work for tumbler coating.
Can I put a glitter tumbler in the dishwasher?
No, epoxy-coated glitter tumblers should be hand-washed only. Dishwasher heat (140-160°F) can damage the epoxy coating and cause cloudiness or peeling. Recommend to customers: hand-wash with mild soap and room temperature water for longevity. Include care instructions with each tumbler sale.
How long does tumbler epoxy take to cure?
Most tumbler epoxies are dry to touch in 4-6 hours and ready for the next coat in 6-8 hours. Full cure takes 72 hours (3 days). Keep tumblers rotating on a cup turner for 6-8 hours per coat to prevent drips and ensure even coverage. Don't rush the cure time or epoxy may stay soft.
Do I need a cup turner for epoxy tumblers?
Yes, a cup turner is essential for professional results. Manual rotation by hand every 10-15 minutes for 6-8 hours is impractical. Cup turners cost $30-60 and rotate automatically, ensuring even coating with no drips. They're the #1 most important tool for tumbler making.
How do I prevent bubbles in tumbler epoxy?
Mix epoxy slowly to minimize bubbles. Let mixed epoxy sit 5-10 minutes before applying—bubbles rise to surface. After applying each coat, pass a butane torch or heat gun over surface within first 30 minutes to pop surface bubbles. Work in a warm room (75-80°F)—cold epoxy traps more bubbles.
How much can I sell glitter tumblers for?
Custom glitter tumblers sell for $25-45 on Etsy depending on design complexity. Material cost is typically $8-12 per tumbler (blank tumbler $3-5, epoxy $3-4, glitter $1-2, sealer $1). Selling at $30-35 gives healthy profit margins. Use our Resin Cost Calculator to track exact costs and optimize pricing. Factor in 2-3 hours labor per tumbler.