Blog Post
From Hobby to Passion: My Journey into Crafting Custom Tumblers
Like many others, I found myself searching for something meaningful to fill my time during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. After being laid off, I stumbled into the world of tumbler crafting—a creative outlet that kept both my hands and my mind busy. What started as a simple way to pass the time has grown into something I genuinely love.
Learning the Craft: From YouTube to My Workspace
I first turned to YouTube for guidance. There’s a wealth of incredible tutorials out there, each filled with inspiring designs and tips. Many creators encouraged viewers to “use this design as inspiration” or “put your own twist on it,” which sparked my creative drive. I wasn’t just copying what I saw—I was learning how to make each tumbler uniquely mine.
The learning process wasn’t without challenges. In the beginning, there were plenty of mistakes—misaligned decals, epoxy that didn’t cure properly, and designs that didn’t quite turn out as planned. But those "disasters" became my best teachers. Some of the tumblers I thought were destined for failure ended up being my most stunning creations, and each mistake taught me what not to do the next time.
Turning a Hobby into a Business
Eventually, my passion turned into an opportunity. I started selling my tumblers through an Etsy shop and to people in my small town. The response was incredible—I was making good money and loved seeing others enjoy something I’d created. But, as life often does, other priorities arose. I had to put my crafting business on hold to focus on more pressing matters.
This hasn’t been a linear journey. It’s been a process of starting and stopping, of finding time to create again when life allows. But every time I pick it back up, I’m reminded of how much I enjoy it—and how much potential there is to grow.
A New Chapter: Expanding My Creative Horizons
Now, I’m diving back in, determined to make an impact not only through the products I create but by helping others get started on their own crafting journeys. Beyond tumblers, I’ve started creating wooden signs, chess boards, checkerboards, and other handmade items. It’s so fulfilling to bring ideas to life, and I want to share that joy with others.
Why I Love Crafting
Crafting isn’t just about making beautiful products—it’s about the process. It’s about learning, experimenting, and finding pride in your creations. Whether you’re just starting out or have been crafting for years, there’s always room to grow, try something new, and embrace your unique style.
If you’ve ever thought about crafting your own tumblers or other custom pieces, I hope my story inspires you to give it a shot. Even the mistakes can lead to something amazing—and who knows? It might turn into your passion too.