I finally decided to make an item that I have pinned on Pinterest quite a few times, the sharpie mug. Everyone made it look so easy. I thought there must be a catch. To my surprise, it really is that easy!

It is no secret that I love the Dollar Store. They have so many great pieces, either on their own or DIY’d. With Pinterest access, the Dollar Store has limitless potential. If you haven’t already seen it, check out what I did with a Dollar Store vase here.

I decided to grab a few mugs and get to work. I wanted a heart shaped design, but unfortunately in my crafty supply box, I didn’t have a heart shaped sticker. I decided to make one. I took painters tape, a stencil, a precision knife and made one myself.

Cover the stencil area that you want to cut out with tape, ensure to overlap the strips. Use a cutting board under the area you plan to cut. Do NOT do this on your surface or counter without a cutting board. Slice out the shape and pop it out once done.

Ensure your mug surface is clean, you should wash and dry it completely. To ensure that the tape will adhere best, wipe down with rubbing alcohol if you have it.

Place the sticker where you would like it. No rules, you can tilt it, upside down, anything you’d like.

Grab your Sharpie markers and start by outlining the sticker. I chose to use two colors, silver and gold. I began by outlining the heart in gold. * Ensure that you are using the oil based Sharpie Markers, this will ensure that your design does not wash off when cleaning.

Continue outlining the image with smaller dots and farther apart as you go.

Once you have the desired design that you would like then give the design 15-20 mins to dry and set. Peel off the sticker and if necessary you can clean up any edges with a q-tip and nail polish remover.

Now here is the important part, place the mug in your oven THEN turn on your oven to 450. Yes, I said THEN turn on your oven. Once it reaches temperature set your timer for 30 mins. Once the timer is done, turn off the temp and leave the mug in the oven to allow to cool.

I have thrown mine in the dishwasher and hand washed it. So far none have washed off. I am also careful not to scrub the design when washing either.

These are perfect quick, easy and inexpensive gift ideas as well.

If you make one tag me on Instagram so I can see your designs!

My Instagram is @BalancingPieces