How to Create a Sublimation Mug with a Hidden Bottom Sticker Sealed with UV Resin

Personalized mugs are a top-seller in any custom gift business—but if you want to go the extra mile, why not add a secret design to the bottom of the mug? Whether it’s a logo, message, or QR code, sealing a printed sticker with UV resin gives it a permanent, glossy finish that makes your mugs truly unique.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create a sublimation mug with Epson Sublimation Printers, a Mug Press, Canva for your designs—and a printed waterproof sticker on the bottom, finished with UV resin.

🛠️ What You’ll Need

Main Design:

• Epson sublimation printer with sublimation ink
• Sublimation paper
• Canva (to design your mug wrap)
• Mug press
• Sublimation mugs (poly-coated)
• Heat-resistant tape

Bottom Sticker Design:

• Inkjet printer with pigment ink or laser printer
• Printable waterproof sticker paper (matte or glossy, white or clear)
• Craft knife or round punch (for cutting out the sticker)
• UV resin (clear)
• UV light (nail lamp or handheld UV torch)
• Isopropyl alcohol & lint-free cloth
• Gloves and mask (for safety)

🎨 Step 1: Design in Canva

1. Mug Wrap Design:

• • Create a canvas sized 21cm x 9.5cm in Canva.
  • Add your graphics, text, or artwork.

2. Bottom Sticker:

• • Create a second canvas sized 5cm x 5cm.
  • Add a logo, quote, QR code, or illustration.
    Download:
• Mug wrap as PDF or PNG, mirrored.
• Bottom sticker as high-res PNG (not mirrored).

🖨️ Step 2: Print Your Designs

Mug Design:

• Print on sublimation paper using your Epson sublimation printer.
• Mirror the design before printing.

Bottom Sticker:

• Print the sticker on waterproof vinyl or sticker paper using a pigment inkjet or laser printer.
• Allow to dry fully.
• Cut into a neat circle using scissors or a punch.

🔥 Step 3: Sublimate Your Mug

1. Tape your mug wrap tightly onto the mug with heat-resistant tape.
2. Press in your mug press at 180°C for 320 seconds (adjust for your press and mug size).
3. Carefully remove the paper and let the mug cool.

🧷 Step 4: Apply the Sticker to the Bottom

1. Clean the bottom of the mug with isopropyl alcohol.
2. Peel and place your sticker in the center of the mug base.
3. Smooth it out gently to remove any bubbles.
   💡Tip: The mug base should be flat—avoid curved surfaces for the best resin results.

💎 Step 5: Seal the Sticker with UV Resin

1. Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area.
2. Place the mug upside down on a level surface.
3. Carefully apply a thin layer of UV resin over the sticker.
4. Use a silicone brush or stick to spread evenly.
5. Remove any bubbles with a heat gun or by blowing gently through a straw.
6. Cure under a UV light for 2–5 minutes until fully hard.
   You now have a beautiful, sealed hidden design!

Updated on: 20/06/2025