How to Make a DIY Sharpie Mug

FATHER'S DAY IS COMING SOON.

Do you need a quick homemade gift idea?

DIY Sharpie mugs are the rage now and are a great handmade gift idea that kids can make for dad for Father's Day, birthdays or other holidays.  Kids of all ages can have fun creating a unique personalized drinking mug. This kid-friendly craft is super easy, super fast and inexpensive. Mom would love one too!

Want some other kid-friendly craft ideas for dad?  Try these...
Duct Tape Coin Pouch
"Love You" Key Ring
Patriotic Flag Coaster
Nuts and Bolts Picture Frame

Watch this video and read on for step-by-step instructions that will explain how to make a sharpie mug.

SUPPLIES THAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers
• Plain Coffee Mug

What kind of Sharpies do you need? A lot of websites will suggest using regular Sharpies but regular sharpies will actually wash off in the dishwasher or when washing by hand.  You need Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers.  You can find these markers at most craft stores or home improvement stores or on Amazon. 

What kind of mugs do you need?  A typical grazed ceramic mug that you find in stores is perfect for this project.  You can get them at dollar stores for $1/mug, at a thrift store or online at Amazon.  I purchased the mugs I used in this tutorial from the Dollar Tree.

How should you wash the finished mug?  You can put the mug in the dishwasher to wash.  But, if you want the design on the mug to last longer, I recommend hand washing.

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: PREPARE THE MUG

Start by removing all labels and washing the mug with soap and water.  Then, allow the mug to dry completely.  

STEP 2: DESIGN PREPARATION

Allow your child to decide on a design or on what they want to write on the mug. If you need inspiration, you can find meaningful quotes, cute graphics, and ideas by searching the Internet.   

STEP 3: PAINT THE MUG

To paint the mug, use oil-based paint markers.  You can find these markers at most craft stores or home improvement stores.

Now grab the Sharpie paint markers and paint the mug as desired.  If you make a mistake while painting, you can remove the paint with rubbing alcohol.

If stickers are being used, do not remove them until the paint is dry.

STEP 4: DRYING

Let the mug dry for a few hours or overnight.

STEP 5: BAKE THE MUG

After drying, it's time for baking the mug to help set the paint.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Once the oven is heated, carefully put the mug inside and bake for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes, turn the oven off but allow the mug to stay in the oven until it cools. The mug is ready to use and dad can enjoy his favorite beverage in his new mug.

If you want to give dad to add a little something extra, fill the mug with a gift card to his favorite store, with some candy or a small gift.

And don't forget grandpa.  He would love this gift idea also.

Should you apply a sealer?  Some Sharpie Mug DIYers will advise spraying acrylic sealer to the finished design to keep it from rubbing off.  Acrylic sealer is toxic so I do not recommend using it.  However, if you decide to use an acrylic sealer, DO NOT apply it to the inside of the mug or the rim of the mug.

Need a group craft project for Scouts, 4-H, a school class or a birthday party? DIY Sharpie mugs are perfect!