5 Practical Ways to Recycle Vinyl Records

Daisie Team -

Contents

  1. Transform records into wall art
  2. Create a vinyl record clock
  3. Make a vinyl record bowl
  4. Craft a vinyl record bookend
  5. Use vinyl records as planters

Got a stack of old vinyl records collecting dust? Instead of trashing them, why not do Mother Earth a favor by recycling vinyl records in creative and functional ways? From wall art to quirky planters, there are plenty of cool and easy DIY projects to put those records to good use. Trust me, you'll be amazed at how those once-forgotten vinyl records can turn into something extraordinary. Let's get started!

Transform Records into Wall Art

First up, let's talk about transforming your vinyl records into unique wall art. This fun, easy project is all about giving a vintage touch to your living space, and best of all, it's a great way of recycling vinyl records. Here's how you can do it.

Choose Your Records

Before we start, it's time to pick your records. Make sure you select those records that aren't in a playable condition anymore. If you're a Beatles fan, how about using one of their old records for this project? It could be a great conversation starter!

Prepare Your Materials

Now, gather some supplies. You'll need:

  • Selected vinyl records
  • Adhesive hooks
  • Some creativity (don't worry, everyone has it!)

Create Your Art

It's time to create your masterpiece. Place the adhesive hooks on the back of your record and stick it to the wall. You can arrange multiple records to form a pattern or make a bold statement with a single piece. Remember, there's no right or wrong when it comes to art—it's all about expressing yourself.

Voila! You now have a unique piece of wall art made from recycling vinyl records. Not only did you create something beautiful, but you also did your part in reducing waste. Now, that's what I call a win-win situation!

Create a Vinyl Record Clock

Moving on, how about recycling vinyl records into something practical and stylish? A vinyl record clock ticks both boxes! It'll make a great focal point in your room, and the best part is: it's functional. Ready to learn how? Let's dive in.

Pick the Perfect Record

First, choose a record that suits your style. Maybe you want to use a record from your favorite band, or perhaps you prefer an album with a fascinating cover. The choice is yours.

Gather Your Tools

Next, you'll need to gather a few things:

  • Your chosen vinyl record
  • A clock mechanism (You can find these at your local craft store)
  • A drill

Build Your Clock

Now, carefully drill a hole in the center of your record. Attach your clock mechanism following the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to handle the record gently to avoid any damage. Time to hang your new clock on the wall!

And there you have it— a cool, custom-made timepiece made by recycling vinyl records. Practical, stylish, and eco-friendly. Now that's what I call time well spent!

Make a Vinyl Record Bowl

Ever thought about recycling vinyl records into something functional and fashionable for your home? How about a vinyl record bowl? It's a perfect conversation-starter, and it's incredibly easy to make. Let's get started on this creative endeavor.

Choose Your Record

First, you'll need to select a vinyl record. This could be a record that holds sentimental value, or even one with an eye-catching label. The choice is yours, but remember, this record will now take on a new life as a bowl!

Prepare Your Materials

To make your vinyl record bowl, you'll need a few things:

  • Your chosen vinyl record
  • An oven-safe bowl (which will serve as a mold)
  • Oven mitts

Create Your Bowl

Now, preheat your oven to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your record on top of the oven-safe bowl and put it in the oven. As the vinyl heats, it'll soften and begin to mold over the bowl. Once it takes on a shape you like, take it out (using the oven mitts) and let it cool.

Voila! You've just turned a vinyl record into a chic bowl. It's a fun and practical example of recycling vinyl records, and it's a great way to showcase your love for music in a unique way.

Craft a Vinyl Record Bookend

Another fun and practical way of recycling vinyl records is by turning them into bookends. Not only will this add a retro touch to your bookshelf, it's also a fantastic way to keep your books upright. Ready to dive in? Here's how it's done:

Gather Your Materials

First, you'll need the following items:

  • A vinyl record
  • A heat source, such as a hairdryer
  • Protective gloves to handle the heated record

Bend Your Record

The next step is to heat the record until it's malleable. Using your heat source, warm the record until it starts to bend. Then, fold it at a 90-degree angle, creating the actual 'bookend' part of your new creation. Ensure you're wearing your protective gloves during this process.

Let it Cool

After you've achieved the desired shape, let the record cool down completely. This will allow it to harden and maintain its shape. Once it cools, it's ready to prop up your favorite books!

And there you have it — a functional and stylish bookend, all from recycling vinyl records. It's a testament to the fact that vinyl records can have a second life, far beyond the turntable.

Use Vinyl Records as Planters

Think recycling vinyl records is limited to decorative or practical items? Think again! With a little creativity and a green thumb, you can turn old records into unique planters. Here's how to make your old tunes support new growth:

Collect What You Need

Begin with gathering the necessary materials:

  • An old vinyl record
  • A heat source like an oven or a heat gun
  • Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves
  • A bowl or similar object to shape your planter

Shape Your Planter

Heat your record until it becomes flexible. Wearing your protective gloves, carefully drape the warm record over the bowl, pushing it down to create a bowl-like shape. Wait for it to cool down and harden, and voila, you've got a vinyl record planter!

Add Some Green

Now for the fun part. Fill your new planter with soil and plant your favorite small plants or herbs. Remember to place your planter in a tray or saucer to catch any water drainage.

With this project, recycling vinyl records gets a green twist. It's a perfect way to combine your love for music and nature, don't you think? Plus, it's a great conversation starter for your next garden party!

If you enjoyed discovering new ways to recycle vinyl records and want to explore more creative uses of everyday sounds, check out the workshop 'Making Music From Everyday Sounds' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop will teach you how to transform ordinary noises into extraordinary music, taking your creativity to new heights.