How to Put Vinyl on Mugs + Vinyl Test & Cute Designs!

Get my cute face (including the unicorn!) designs (Design # 125) at jennifermaker.com/vinyl-on-mu...
Learn the right way to put vinyl on mugs, including how to pick out the best mug, design, and vinyl for results that look great and last.
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Materials for Vinyl Transfer Mugs (contains my affiliate links)
- Ceramic mugs (avoid anything powder coated)
- Outdoor permanent adhesive vinyl (I recommend Oracal 651)
- Printable waterproof vinyl - see amzn.to/2QXinZ8
- Transfer sheets
- Rubbing alcohol
- Scraper or card
- A way to cut your materials (I used the amazing Cricut) - jennifermaker.com/cricut-cutt...
- My free SVG/DXF/PDF cut files/patterns (Design # 125) (available in my free resource library at jennifermaker.com/library )
UPDATES/CHANGES: Check for any updates, changes, or additional videos for this project at jennifermaker.com/updates
Today we’re putting vinyl on mugs! I received MANY requests for this tutorial, and it’s easy to see why. Personalized mugs are fun to have and give as gifts, and they are very on trend right now. And it’s quite easy to add a name or saying to one of these mugs, too!
But I also understand why I got so many requests for a tutorial. Despite their simple appearance, there’s a lot of choices that go into putting vinyl on a mug. First you need to know what kind of mugs work best, then you need to know what designs work best, especially on curved mugs. And if you do get a curved mug, how do you put your vinyl on without it creasing? And, probably the biggest choice - what kind of vinyl do you use so it stays put?
I can help with all this! We’ll go over the types and shapes of mugs that work best for vinyl decals. We’ll talk about designs that look best on mugs! And then we’re going to do a TEST of all the different types of vinyl one can put on a mug, from adhesive vinyl to heat transfer vinyl … you know, the stuff you iron on. No, I’m not kidding! We’re going to do it.
And to top it all off, I put the mugs in my dishwasher so you can see what is, and is not, dishwasher safe.
And I also made some SUPER cute designs that you’re welcome to download and use. These little kawaii faces are easy to apply to mugs and look ADORABLE. I made a variety of faces and expressions, including a unicorn, a kitty, and a puppy.
Vinyl mugs are fun and easy IF you do it the right way. Now, even though I did the dishwasher test, I still tend to hand wash my vinyl mugs. It’s your choice. So go ahead and put your mugs in the dishwasher, but with the understanding that after the 100th time they might not look so great. But hey, you can always remake it, right?
#cricut #cricutmade #designspace
NOTE: Cricut Design Space updated shortly after I made this video. To see those updates and make the necessary changes for this tutorial, please watch • Cricut Design Space Up...
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Blog: jennifermaker.com
Facebook Page: / jennifermakercrafts
Facebook Group: / cricutcraftersandmakers
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Pinterest: / jenuinemom
Please subscribe to my channel at / jennifermaker for more video tutorials to craft a life you love!
Credits:
Introduction: PixelBytes (my child!)
Music: Cute by Bensound (licensed, royalty and copyright free)
Videography: Jennifer Marx on a Panasonic Lumix FZ-1000 DSLR 4K camera
Design: A Jennifer Maker original!

[@backwordsboyz]

You can reuse the transfer tape for multiple mugs to save $$$

[@JenniferMaker]

yes, just depends on what type material you are transferring. 💗

[@KB-dd5px]

I have been binge watching your channel because I just bought a cricut! You are my absolute favorite!

[@JenniferMaker]

Wow, thank you!

[@ruthghumman6144]

me too, great tutorials

[@bakerbrewz]

I agree! Both with the binge watching and that Jennifer Maker is my fav! Haha hope your Cricut crafts have been going swell!

[@emiliamurryramey6039]

Thanks for the explanation about regular and strong hold transfer tape, and using glitter. I love the unicorn. So cute.

[@kseniyahavrylova9030]

The best video I've found !! I love that you tested all the vinyls in the dishwasher! I've been looking for a thorough video like this!! Thank you!

[@UnexpectedTreasure2]

Thanks for such a clear, concise and informative video! I watched about a dozen videos and yours was by far the best. Santa bought me a Cameo 3 and I'm excited to get started with this type of crafting.

[@helenroberts3681]

Thank you for the tip on snipping the transfer tape to help the vinyl sit flat. This helps a lot on the curved surface.

[@llcreationsmemorableevents9962]

Every video is better than the last. So much explanation and demonstration of different options. Love it.

[@michelehamill8998]

Thanks, I'm new at Cricut (just got one for Christmas, so exciting) I am chomping at the bit to play with my new toy. You have inspired me!!

[@debbieking9141]

Thanks so much. I have several mugs that I haven’t tried yet, so I will try now that you’ve given me confidence and inspiration. Oh, and also great instructions as always.💕

[@annbesterci1041]

Thank you for doing all the testing for me. Now I can make my own decision on what type to use.

[@christennacarr2917]

You are amazing. Thanks for all these tutorials. I have looked forward to them everyday this month.

[@streamstriss]

Thanks for the tips using vinyl for mugs. I've struggled in the past and now I know why.

[@careylynn77]

OMG! I am in love with that tiny iron.

[@Mandylane86]

I used to use a tiny iron when I did scrapbooking, I wonder whatever happened to that!!!

[@notascuteasme]

I am a beginner and I know I have a long way to go, but I have learned sooooo much from your video.

[@laurielaliberte5873]

Thank you for this. My boss gave me a vinyl decal a couple of months ago and I hadn't done anything with it. I'm so inexperienced with vinyl, I didn't know how I should apply it and I couldn't decide what to put it on. Thanks to you, I was able to dress up a water bottle that has our company logo on one side!

[@jenniferwalkswithHim]

Thank you sooo much!! You have been super helpful and do such a great job explaining step by step!! You’re a blessing to watch!!

[@gonzo2.0]

We use Oracal 651 on all our mugs and tumblers at our sign shop It survives over a year of dish washer torture, plus it is much more cost effective if you are running dozens of mugs. You could have applied the circular monogram easily if you ran a hair dryer over the 651 for a couple seconds after you removed the transfer tape. Nice work on the mugs.

[@romans5eight]

Thx for the tip!

[@carlav1306]

Omg i found you yesterday and I’m already loving you ❤️ thank you.

[@carolynknight9273]

I am so excited to try this! Thank you for your wisdom and energetic personality!

[@sassycakes811]

Wow, I absolutely love your video. I just bought the cricket maker and your tutorial was very helpful! Thank you so much! Cannot wait to try the unicorn mug. Absolutely adorable.

[@GrammaStubbs]

These are very cute! And some WONDERFUL tips! Thank you for sharing your time and talent!

[@vittek750]

By the way, I have free beautiful butterflies on the channel

[@bethvolinsky]

Hi, Jennifer! I'm so happy I found you! You're the biggest reason my cricut made it out of the box. Lol. Thanks for being so thorough in all your videos. It's made Cricut newbie life a lot easier!

[@JenniferMaker]

AWE! Yay! Thanks so much for your kind words! :)

[@tangelajones941]

Love it!

[@irenemorley75]

I have looked at lots of videos but Jen has to be the best on this.

[@Di4knight]

I really liked this video ... I have only done a few glasses and did not like having the wrinkles ... this video taught me a lot ... now can’t wait to do some mugs ... thanks Jennifer!

[@ginalange8628]

I absolutely love how you teach Jennifer! I'm very new to the Cricut world and have many videos. You are so precise, thorough, and explain things so well to us newbies! Thank you!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much!

[@jenmeszler3526]

I’m looking forward to trying this and I appreciate all of your insight and tips! It truly makes trying new projects less intimidating and saves us from wasting materials (vinyl and mugs) since we know which vinyls hold up the best from your dishwasher test. Thank you!

[@JenniferMaker]

You can do it, Jen, and it really is fun! We also have a newer tutorial that you can take a peek at, here: 😍 jennifermaker.com/cricut-mugs-seal-vinyl/

[@laurabrey3128]

Can I use the infusable cricut mugs too?

[@gloriabarajas3972]

Hi, I was gifted my maker in January and still learning all the many things I can do with it. I learn so mush from your channel. This was very helpful for me. So many ideas. I need more time in my day! Thank you

[@AMBASSADORFORGOD]

God bless 💗

[@faerielady5744]

THANK YOU for such a great video. I am NEW to Cricut and just got my maker for Christmas. Bought a bunch of different vinyls but had no clue what or types. This video will get me started and I learned a lot. Subscribing and saving.

[@crystalwiski5262]

I really appreciate your dedication to these videos! I have learned so much from watching you and have avoided a lot of mishaps thanks to you!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@ginabotello6716]

Just bought my Cricut, thank you for all the tips especially what works best on mugs in the dishwasher.

[@claratang8658]

where do you get the circuit?

[@camistmary6381]

Clara you can buy the Cricut from WalMart for around $200 or they have them on Amazon and at Michaels

[@abbiethompson8249]

Great mugs

[@ania9133]

thank you so much for the tip of cutting slits in transfer tape for the mugs!! this has made my life easier and was able to complete 6 mugs without cursing lol

[@daniellemurphyakamousekawi5070]

Are the mugs dishwasher safe? So cute >•

[@ania9133]

Danielle Murphy, I always hand wash mine. And let them air dry.

[@aliciat2216]

@@ania9133 I do too. I also tell my customers not to wash them in the dishwasher.

[@AndreaEder]

Same !!!!

[@007bondchick]

THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! I just got a cricut yesterday for my birthday and I’m clueless of how to use this amazing machine! You are such a blessing!!! Again I say THANK YOU!

[@JenniferMaker]

Congrats on your new Cricut machine! Thank you for watching! :)

[@StacieLewin]

Glad to see you did this video as I will be working on mugs here for the kids really soon.

[@latiawalker1297]

Thanks for this step by step. I'm so excited to start making things with my cricut

[@jameslockwood4117]

I just bought one and am watching your videos. I noticed the JML mug in the background. Those are my initials :)

[@Singl3l3tsmingl3]

For me being a beginner, I thank you. Your videos are simple, easy to follow. Step by step. 💕

[@JenniferMaker]

So happy to hear that, singlelets!

[@shyletmudzamiri7323]

My cricut maker is a week old and I’m so glad I found you so early into my journey. I’ve subscribed to your blog and it’s so educational. Your teaching style is amazing.

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! Congratulations on your new machine! We have a new free series of online classes that show you how to set up and work with your machine as a new Cricut owner, if you have not yet come across that! Here's the link to sign up: 🥰makeracademy.com/cricutkickoff

[@inaedemarughu8275]

I was totally oblivious to using alcohol to treat the mugs prior to applying the vinyl and like you I found out the hard way about having to use a stronger transfer tape for glitter vinyl. The problem I came across was once the glitter vinyl got wet the color on it ran. I tried to use a modge podge or even a clear coat but with no success. Thank you for this video though. I'll be sure to subscribe!

[@julianaserra]

I saw someone using hair dryer to stick iron on vinyl on mugs and worked :)

[@sallylong5908]

Thanks for showing the differences in the various vinyls!

[@StrawBearie]

Great video! Thanks for showing what happens to different brands of vinyl.

[@sandramaurais4]

I've done the HTV on the mugs but I used a heat gun and it stayed on and worked perfectly.

[@MsHazza73]

Oh, that's a good idea!

[@suniv8245]

Sandra Maurais is that dishwasher safe / microwave safe?

[@xbeckorzx]

First off, I love you! You have helped me learn so much about the machine that has fascinated me for years and has also intimidated me too. Watching you create and explain through your videos has got me starting to create my own unique items and for this I thank you! I do have a question.. I want to make outdoor garden flags for my home and was planning on using HTV. Have you tried something like this in the outdoor elements? Do you even recommend HTV or would you use another type of vinyl? I am thinking of using a canvas, or poly/cotton blend fabric? Anyway I'd love your feedback on my little project if you have any input! Thanks again for all the countless times you've helped me !!

[@marymodel5765]

Im definitely subscribing. Love your pace, value added info and creativity.

[@elvamcnurlin5736]

Thank you for the thorough instructions and comparison of vinyl .

[@sarab4486]

Thank you! You just saved me a bunch of money on having to do my own trials lol

[@rebeccahurt3711]

I didn't know you could use vinyl on mugs. Thank you!!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You're welcome! Just make sure it's permanent vinyl. And you hand wash only and do not microwave. :)

[@Averil07111]

I simply love your channel. I’m binge watching tonight.. 😍

[@shoppingwithme]

You're awesome and have the best videos!! After watching for like 2 years, you've convinced me to get a cricut! I'm picking it up today!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

That is awesome! You're going to love it!

[@chrissytirado2007]

Omg girl I LOVE LOVE LOVE this video!!!!! Thank you soooooo much for making it!!!!!!!

[@robery4008]

on the first JML sticker, if you cut at the points in an X shape you can stick it down easily

[@JenniferMaker]

Great tip! Thanks! :)

[@sandrawatkins8502]

Love love love this tutorial!!! You answered all my questions for a project we will be doing for a birthday. Right on time! I also subscribed when you mentioned painting furniture. That is another project I had in mind...thank you.

[@margaretball8835]

You always go above and beyond! ❤️

[@karenpaul4594]

I use PRESS AND SEAL. it bends beautifully with vinyl for things like this.

[@vidneypopples]

Press & Seal what? Press & Seal is a brand not a product!

[@makaylasamaras3724]

vidville vid Everyone who read this knew she was talking about cling wrap. Go be pretentious somewhere else.

[@tinabaker6436]

A great tip from sewing - if you want your circle to lie flat, clip it and remove a tiny piece of transfer tape from one edge of circle. Overlap the edges and it will lie flat on a curved surface.

[@JenniferMaker]

Great tip!

[@lauraw9117]

These are my absolute FAVORITE crafting videos! You’re so knowledgeable and communicate your progress so easily! I love watching these. Thanks for sharing them!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome, Laura! I love to teach and support others to live a life they love....I'm so happy that you enjoy what I'm up to! 😍

[@tech-art7200]

@@JenniferMaker can i use Adhesive Foil for Acrylic keychain or do i need to seal them ?

[@hippeerebel3037]

What a great tutorial! Never thought to cut different colors and put it on one mat to cut

[@endtime13]

There is a mini stick iron that can be used for crafts. No bigger then a inkpin. You are Great.

[@sheilarobinson8775]

Where do you purchase it? Thank you in advance.

[@carlieschannel2197]

I just need that tiny cute iron!!! So cute!! 😂💕

[@geraldinebecher7702]

Great info. I can see ill be using this video to refresh myself often. Thank you.

[@susanpedley]

Great tip to snip the transfer tape! I put vinyl on some Christmas ornaments last season and it was tricky (they were super curvy). I figured out the loosely connected images worked the best, but it was still hard. I can see how giving the transfer tape some room to flex will help.

[@inkdyescutting2834]

One of the things I heard stressed was never dishwash, always hand wash. Unless you iron-on and/or seal with a poly or epoxy. With epoxy , make sure it cures and airs properly as it can still secrete fumes (which are dangerous and unscented) nobody wants to get sick or make a client sick ｡◕‿◕｡

[@JenniferMaker]

Absolutely! I even have a video on epoxy safety! kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4WkdnmAm9FkrJY Safety first...ALWAYS! :-)

[@shelleystrand5532]

I use htv glitter, but I have a mug press. It has to heat to about 400*, but its gone thru the dishwasher so many times I can't count. I made it about a year ago and its still looks great. I also tried the iron (which I have a really heavy duty iron. It did not work. If you make a mistake, just use rubbing alcohol, a razor blade and patience. It will come off.

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome, thank you!

[@williamirvine7071]

I did a Powder Coated Tumbler yesterday. It was not my first time but I did use Cricut vinyl for the first time. I usually use Oracal 651. I had no problem with the adhesive holding on. It was my first time using Cricut premask and I am not a big fan of it but it will do. I do enjoy your videos and there is always something useful. Thanks.

[@donnalannan2978]

You really do an exceptional job on these videos. My sister just got a cricut and signed up for your lessons. She completed this project yesterday. It turned out beautifully. What an inspiration and reward. Thanks so much!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@AnneGoggansQHHT]

They make heat mug presses just for mugs, kind of like the ones for hats.

[@scapwell]

Hi, I'm still looking into this whole cricut thing, seeing what all it can do, etc. I've got a question about the heat transfer ones on ceramic. Can you use a heatgun instead of an iron?

[@Donly1Me]

Yes a heat gun is a better option than an iron

[@ashleylederer7978]

@@Donly1Me I just found her and thought the same thing!!

[@samanthaschoenherr8452]

Love it! I have only had my Explore Air2 for a few months and I’ve been getting so many requests!

[@tiffw3314]

Thank you for this! I made an adhesive vinyl glass and it made it great through the dishwasher, but I've always wondered if I should have been using HTV. I'm happy to see that I don't need to. This was a great comparison and I wrote some notes down. Thank you!

[@gwenboudreaux4462]

Do you recommend clear coating over vinyl on the mugs?

[@shayleenlogan8621]

I wonder the same thing! Do you know of a clear coat that would cover the vinyl completely?

[@Tanacarroll]

My sister just made me a Yeti tumbler for Christmas. It turned out beautiful. I won’t put in dishwasher. Why would you not just hand wash on such a beautiful expensive handmade gift? I’d hope no one would. Oracle 651 was used and will not go in the dishwasher. Personal choice.

[@lab3789]

Oracle 651 can go in a dishwasher

[@gracegivenwellness]

Super great video. I can’t wait to get started Monday on many of your videos thanks

[@nerissaodell2637]

Jennifer is the best when it comes to detailed tutorials. I love them. Thanks Jennifer.

[@JenniferMaker]

Yay! Thank you!

[@WorkingMommyDaily]

you need to have your own show on Create channel :)

[@JenniferMaker]

Oh, you're my new hero! I saw your message come in my notifications and I could only see, "you need to have..." and I thought someone was going to point out something I'd missed in my videos. It happens, I'm FAR from perfect. And then I come here to read it and I discover THIS. Thank you for making my day!

[@WorkingMommyDaily]

@@JenniferMaker keep up the good work sweetheart :) I am a fan for sure.

[@Falney]

"First we need to clean the mugs. For this I am using Isopropyl Alcohol" 2020... .... .... Can I use nail polish remover?

[@JenniferMaker]

Yes, acetone, or vodka, Everclear. :)

[@EsmereldaPea]

Don't use nail polish remover unless it is pure acetone. Many acetone-based nail polish removers have additives that can defeat the purpose.

[@Falney]

@@EsmereldaPea the same can be said about IPA if you get cosmetic grade. Here in the UK you need to buy industrial or pharmaceutical grade or it comes with things like cod liver oil or some chemical emulsifier.

[@EsmereldaPea]

@@Falney Seriously? Yikes. The only thing I've ever seen rubbing alcohol mixed with hereabouts is menthol. I'd hope people would have the presence of mind NOT to use that kind but you never know! What DOES one do with IPA mixed with castor oil? Please tell me it's not ingested!

[@Falney]

@@EsmereldaPea it is used by places like nail bars for steriliser and putting on cotton wool for cleaning nails. The oil helps offset the drying skin because of the alcohol.

[@debwymer5373]

I just love all of your tutorials, I can’t wait to make mugs. I have made several faces from my Cricut Joy,thanks to you. I am looking forward on making some mugs.

[@JenniferMaker]

I love to hear this, Deb!

[@aliciavillarreal955]

Thank you for all your tips. I am new to cricut so your tutorial was very helpful.

[@Ruthsdreamgarden]

HTV on mug is good, need the right kind of heat and have to let it cure for At least 24 hours

[@JenniferMaker]

I am doing a second test and I'm letting it sit for a while before I put it in the dishwasher to test it this time. :)

[@ItsStephanie381]

I let it sit and then realized that it wasn't Permanent so I epoxy all my mugs

[@nancyzazulka491]

This has to be the best, most informative tutorial I've ever seen. Thank you so so much!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@KaushikiAnartistfromsoul]

Thank you so much for such a nice and beautiful, descriptive video. totally loved it.

[@janellekm]

Where would we be without you, Jennifer sharing your knowledge and ideas with us.

[@JenniferMaker]

Wow, thank you! 🌸

[@603kimcrafts9]

Just discovered your channel. I'm fairly new to the Cricut world. I bought an Air last summer (good deal @ Tuesday Morning) and have played with it a bit. Got at Maker and one of the Cricut heat presses for Christmas. Thank you so much for the fantastic tutorial! I subscribed so I'll be watching more. 😊

[@kimhund2782]

I am new to the Cricut...in fact, mine is in the process of shipping :) Thank you so much for the tutorial. I am soooo excited about my new machine.

[@court3712]

I am new to cricut and pretty much crafting altogether and lately I have been watching a ton of KZbin videos, and I typically will not watch a video that's more than 10 mins long, but I can sit and watch your videos all day...every single minute and not want to stop or skip to the next video. You give so much content, and assistance in your videos and that's what newbies like me need. I watched a previous video on how to make mugs and the person did not explain or go into detail the way that you did and for that I sincerely thank you because you have made me a lot more comfortable by watching your videos. Thanks so much!!! Keep making wonderful videos Jennifer!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for your kind words welldamncourt!!! I love to hear feedback from my viewers!! So glad you are enjoying the content. 😍

[@samanthachristianson8725]

Thank you for making these videos. I got my cricut maker yesterday and I have so many questions that your videos are answering. I’m a visual learner so these videos are awesome. I’m excited get some vinyl and tools and get started 💛

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad they are helpful, Samantha! Warm greetings to our community! 😍

[@susanfloyd1798]

Thank you so much for all these tutorials. I am a beginner and was getting frustrated but your presentations makes it so so easy.

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!

[@dominiquestanleyhuckabey9084]

I absolutely love your tutorials, your tips are great coming from a cricut newbie your videos have taught me so much! Thank you!

[@aliciat2216]

I love Jennifer! I'm some what new, I've been watching her videos since I started almost a year ago., There is soon much to learn!!!

[@kcw4714]

Oracal 651 is my go to. Love your information thank you!

[@irmagonzalez4467]

Thank you for your helpful tutorials. You are so generous to share your designs....❤️

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much for watching! So glad you enjoy my designs! :)

[@cherylmorrison1751]

Just got 4 mugs at a yard sale & can't wait to try this!!

[@LTinATL]

Great tutorial! Doing the dishwasher test was very helpful! Thanks

[@fullrose2001]

I love your how to and how easy it is to follow your step by step. Thank you. Can't wait to add more mugs to my collection.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much, Roselynd! Maybe you'd like even more mugs to add to your collection? Click right here! 😊 jennifermaker.com/cricut-mugs-seal-vinyl/

[@deidremoore6641]

Great tutorial for a beginner like me! Have not even tried vinyl yet. Love Jennifer as she is so easy to follow.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much!

[@staceygarton6723]

I just bought a cricut and so appreciate all your wonderful videos and tutorials!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Wonderful!

[@dyane1869]

Awesome tutorial! I have definitely learned the hard way about the right shape for the right vinyl ...and for the right item curve! Well Done !

[@krischaelgreene6865]

The slits in the transfer tape tip kept me from ruining a large project. YOU are a GODDESS! Thank you so much for the awesome tutorials!

[@JenniferMaker]

Awwww...hooray! Thank you!

[@abbystone5738]

That was very helpful, Jennifer - THANK YOU!!

[@pzzlme]

Thanks for testing so many, so we don't have to waste our time or supplies. I really love your videos.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad you like them!

[@denisem5437]

Jennifer, thank you so much for making a video for beginners. You have made this new journey of mine a little easier and less intimidating. I'm a follower now. Thank you thank you

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome! Glad you are here!

[@razztazz1982]

Great tutorial! Subscribed. I look forward to seeing more of your content.

[@jeishalizandino6784]

Lets start by saying I found you yesterday and Im already loving all your videos, your voice is so calming and educational. I can watch your videos all day and not get tired. Please keep making videos

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much and thank you for watching!