How to Make Photo Coffee Mugs Using Delta PermEnamel

Delta PermEnamel is a system of paint and surface preparation that requires no baking. You can decorate any mug, allow it to air dry and then finish the process with a sealer. In order to make photo coffee mugs using Delta PermEnamel, you need to also use water slide decal paper. The water slide decal paper transfers the photo to the cup. The Delta PermEnamel adds the decoration, allows you to impart your own clever saying and seal the cup.

Things You'll Need

• Mug Measuring tool Computer Picture file on computer Craft knife Water slide decal paper Delta's Air Dry PermEnamel surface conditioner Delta Air Dry PermEnamel paints Delta's Air Dry PermEnamel accent liners Delta Air Dry PermEnamel clear glaze

Instructions

1. Find the perfect mug for your work of art. You also need to select the appropriate or "really inappropriate" picture for your project. You need one that you uploaded into your computer. If you have a digital camera, you probably already have quite a few. If the cup is for a friend, ask her family if they have a photo to email you.

2. Lay out the design you want. Make a heavy paper template and cut out the areas to be painted and the spot for the photo with a craft knife if you want it exact. Measure the area for your photo. You'll need to resize the picture to fit that area. Once you are satisfied with the design and picture, print out a sample photo and test the size. If it works, print it again, but this time use the water slide decal paper. Spray it with a fixative to set the ink. Allow it to dry as you do the other steps.

3. Prepare the mug with Delta's Air Dry PermEnamel Surface Conditioner. Paint the images you chose and the background for the picture onto the mug. If you make a template from heavy paper, simply tape it onto the mug and fill in the lines.

4. Put your writing on the mug with Delta's Air Dry PermEnamel Accent Liners. Allow the painting to dry at least 24 hours. Then, coat all areas except for the photo space with a layer of Delta Air Dry PermEnamel Clear Glaze. Allow it to dry.

5. Cut the photo you selected from the decal paper. Following the directions from the manufacturer, put the image in water until the paper curls and the decal lifts away. Slide it into the appropriate spot on your mug. Gently blot it dry. Let it set overnight to make sure the drying process is complete.

6. Touch up any spots as necessary. Hand wash the mug. It's not dishwasher safe.

Resources

• Injet water slide decal paper
• Delta Air Dry PermEnamel