UV DTF stickers have become incredibly popular in the current market, with UV DTF cup wraps particularly gaining considerable attention on platforms like TikTok. These glossy, waterproof, and durable wraps are perfect for customizing tumblers, mugs, and drinkware with vibrant designs that customers love.
Technically, UV DTF cup wraps can be made with a simple UV printer that's capable of printing varnish, which all Rainbow flagship models can do. So how do we make them? This article will show you how to.
By the way, a UV DTF printer can make UV DTF cup wraps perfectly and simply, but this article won't cover this part. Instead, we'll focus on how to make UV DTF cup wraps using a standard UV flatbed printer — a practical and cost-effective method for many beginners and small businesses.
What Do You Need to Make UV DTF Cup Wraps?
There are some materials and equipment that we need to prepare prior to making UV DTF cup wraps:
- UV Flatbed Printer (A3 size or larger) – Capable of printing color, white ink, and varnish. The Rainbow RB-4030 Pro is an excellent starting model.
- UV DTF AB Film – Includes Film A (sheet form, usually 100pcs per pack) and Film B (roll form, usually 50m per roll).
- Laminator – For bonding Film A and Film B after printing.
- Alcohol Spray Bottle – For cleaning the cup surface and tools.
- Scissors or Precision Cutter – For accurate trimming.
- Clean, Dust-Free Workspace – Essential to avoid contamination.
How to Print UV DTF Cup Wraps - The Process
Step 1: Choose And Prepare A Suitable UV Flatbed Printer
First, we need to use the UV flatbed printer, print size A3 and above since the AB film required is made in A3 and it’s more efficient to print on A3 size UV DTF film than smaller. The RainbowDGT product line starts with the versatile RB-4030 Pro, an A3 size UV printer that’s perfect for anyone looking to start a diverse UV printing business beyond just stickers.
Step 2: Prepare Your Design
How to create UV DTF cup wraps starts with proper design. Measure the height and circumference of your target cup or tumbler, then create a template in design software. Export your file at high resolution (300 DPI or higher) for best results.
Step 3: Printing on Film A
First, we need to use the UV flatbed printer. It’s recommended to print at A3 size and above, since AB film is commonly produced in A3 format and it’s more efficient to print on larger sheets.
How to print UV DTF cup wraps on a flatbed printer:
- The material we use is called AB film. It consists of Film A (comes in individual pieces, usually 100pcs per pack) and Film B (comes in a roll, usually 50m per roll).
- We start by printing on Film A.
Film A looks like transparent plastic film and consists of three layers: a plastic base film, glue, and a plastic protective film. The ease of peeling the base film (which affects how easy it is to apply the sticker) depends on the quality of the base film, while adhesion strength depends on the glue. Many users have experienced poor results because of cheap base film or weak glue, so make sure you choose high-quality UV DTF AB film before making a bulk purchase.
Printing Process:
Peel off the top protective film from Film A to expose the sticky adhesive surface.
- Spray some alcohol on your printer table, then place the Film A onto the table. The alcohol helps the film adhere flat to the surface, preventing movement — especially useful if you don’t have a vacuum suction table.
- By the way, all Rainbow models can be equipped with a vacuum suction table, and some come with it as standard configuration.
- Make sure your design is positioned correctly and stays within the coverage area of the Film A.
Print with color inks, add white ink where needed for opacity, and finish with a layer of varnish for a glossy, raised, and protective finish.
Step 4: Laminating with Film B
After printing, carefully remove the Film A from the table.
Now it’s time to use the laminator:
- Install the roll of Film B on the laminator and let it roll out about 10cm.
- Turn on the heating function of the laminator — this helps achieve better lamination and reduces the chance of bubbles.
- Insert the printed Film A evenly and straight into the laminator. Watch the process carefully to avoid crooked feeding.
The laminator bonds Film A and Film B together, creating a durable, ready-to-apply transfer.
Step 5: Cutting and Final Preparation
After laminating, cut off the finished sheet. Trim your design carefully with scissors or a precision cutter, removing excess film around the edges.
At this point, you have ready-to-use UV DTF cup wraps.
Step 6: How to Apply UV DTF Cup Wraps
How do you make UV DTF wraps look professional? Proper application is key:
- Clean the cup surface thoroughly with alcohol and allow it to dry completely.
- Peel a small section of the backing (base layer of Film A) from one end.
- Align and start applying the wrap onto the cup, using even pressure to avoid air bubbles.
- Slowly wrap it around while smoothing with your hand or a squeegee.
- Once fully applied, rub firmly across the surface.
- Peel off the clear top carrier film (Film B) slowly at a shallow angle.
With practice, you’ll be able to produce high-quality custom cup wraps that sell for a nice profit.
This concludes our comprehensive guide on how to make your own UV DTF cup wraps with a UV flatbed printer. Whether you want to learn how to print UV DTF cup wraps, or how to create UV DTF cup wraps, following these steps will help you achieve consistent, professional results.
If you’re interested in further expanding your printing techniques or upgrading your equipment, RainbowDGT’s seasoned professionals are always eager to assist you in exploring the dynamic world of UV printing.