DIY Sharpie Mug Tutorial with free templates

This Sharpie Mug Tutorial anyone can do – no amazing artistic ability required! Ah the Sharpie mug.  Looks like such a fun project, and then I remember I’m not very good at drawing.  Never fear!  Here’s my nearly fool proof method for excellent ( but hand drawn looking) mugs:

For this project you will need:

Oil based Sharpies – I like the extra fine tip the best.  The Sharpies must be oil based – not the regular ones you get in the office supply aisle.  I ordered mine off of Amazon here.

Blank white coffee mugs

Tape

Fleece Fun’s free printable (available at the end of the post)

2 pencils 1 sharp and one dull

cookie sheet

oven

Get the video tutorial here, written instructions below:

Can I use regular sharpies on the mug?

A regular sharpie won’t stay and “bake” into the mug with the same lasting power as the oil based sharpies.  If you want your design to stay you need to use the correct sharpie.

Sharpie Mug Tutorial

Step 1 – Prep the blank mug

Wash and dry the mug to prep it for drawing.

Print up the free tutorial.

Cut it out do it fits nicely on the mug.

Step 2 – Use the Sharpie Template to make the “Hand Drawn Look”

Using a Pencil, rub the back of the sharpie mug template you want to use until it’s completely covered.

Tape the paper to the mug, centering it where you want it to appear.

Using medium pressure and a sharp pencil trace around the letters and elements.

Remove paper.  You now should have an outline of the template on the mug!

Trace with markers and fill in. Decorate and add your own flair/ colors to the design. Wipe off the pencil

Step 3 – Set the Sharpie Marking on the Mug 

“Cook” the mugs 425 for 45 min  and allow to cool in oven.  I like to leave mine in it overnight.

Fill with yummy candy.

Or hot homemade hot chocolate mix – like this yummy gourmet recipe.

How do you make the Sharpie stay on the mug?

Baking the sharpie for the  correct time and letting it cool will make the design “set “ on the mug.

Is the DIY Sharpie Mug microwave safe?

As long as the mug you put the design on is microwave safe, then yes it can be used in the microwave just fine.  But the sharpie mug design needs to be set in the regular oven – no microwave shortcut for setting the cute sharpie design you just made!

Download the free template below.

More Valentines Day Ideas:

• Romantic Felt Valentine Envelopes (No Sew)
• Valentines Day Wreath (Sweater look & free cut file)
• Rustic Heart Branch Decor (free cut file)
• Heart Tree (perfect for Tabletop or Mantle & free cut file)
• Valentines Day “Love” Sign Printable
• Valentines Day Candy Wraps and matching tray Printable
• “True Love” Printable Banner
• Heart Hair Clip DIY
• Heart Pillow (Free Pattern)
• Heart Hand warmers (upcycle project)
• How to Make a Giant Love Sign
• You Can See All of my Valentines Ideas Here.
• Chenille Heart Pillow Free Pattern

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Want more Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas? You’ll love these “Love Potion” Bath bottles by Sugar and Cloth!