10 DIY Projects for Your Old Vinyl Records

LPs, EPs, 78s — you might recognize these different types of vinyl records. Put them on a turntable and you've got some great sound! However, turntables aren't exactly everyday household items anymore. Now that we can play music directly from our phones and wirelessly connect to speakers via Bluetooth, what should you do with all that vinyl? Here are 10 DIY projects you can try with your records.

1. Wall Art:

You can use your vinyl combined with other wall art to create fun scenes such as a child holding balloons (shown above), or you can use a simple layout that still gives a vintage feel. Decorate your wall by attaching the records to string and hanging them, or by using an adhesive surface to stick them directly to the wall.

Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/newtown_grafitti/4655819952/

2. Dream Catcher:

This is a great project if you don't have a large collection of vinyl. It only requires one vinyl, some string, feathers and beads or anything else you'd like to incorporate. First, decorate the strings (one to hang the dream catcher and about five to hang from the bottom) and then attach them to the vinyl with hot glue or by putting holes in the record and tying them. If you still like the idea and have more vinyl, host a DIY party with some friends!

>Image credit: http://notedlist.com/dream-catcher-ideas-and-tutorials/

3. Clock:

What time is it? Make your own clock using an old vinyl record! In this example, guitar picks are used instead of numbers. Simply disassemble another clock and reassemble the hands using the hole in the middle of your records. Then you can personalize the face of your new clock. For more detailed instructions, visit here.

Image credit: http://www.wehatetowaste.com/reuse-repurpose-retro-music/

4. Frame the Album Covers:

Maybe you don't want to use an actual record. Often the record sleeve is more artistic than the record itself! No matter what condition your sleeves are in, they'll look great framed and hung on your wall, for a vintage and modern combination.

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5. Make a Mirror Frame:

Make yourself a mirror that reflects your sense of style. There are a couple ways to approach this project. You can arrange your vinyls around your mirror and then cut them and glue them together, or you can simply overlap them. It all depends on the look you're going for. Get creative with it!

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6.Vinyl Record Table:

A vinyl record is the perfect way to fix a damaged tabletop. As long as the legs are still in good shape, simply glue a vinyl to the top of the table and you've just created a charming end table.

Image credit: theflourishingabode.com

7. Record Hat & Coat Rack:

This project is similar to the wall art. You can assemble your vinyl however you like and easily attach a small hook to the bottom of your arrangement to allow for hats and coats to be hung. Another option would be to just place your records onto an existing coat rack.

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8. Record Cupcake Stand:

Especially perfect for a rock-and-roll-themed party, you can make a record dessert stand from different sized vinyl. The base of the stand should be the largest vinyl and get smaller as you go up the stand. All you need are a few records, a stand rod and some screws and washers. Since this project can get a little complicated, here's a step-by-step tutorial.

Image credit:http://diply.com/different-solutions/diy-cake-stands/59937

9. Vinyl Record Bookends:

Fun fact: vinyl records are easy to melt and shape. In order to make record bookends, you just have to boil water (about an inch) in a flat-bottomed heat resistant container and dip the record into the hot water. Once heated, your record will easily bend and you can shape it to be the perfect bookend. Repeat with a second record for the other side of your books!

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10. Paint a Design on Your Vinyl and Hang It as Decoration:

This last idea is more of a craft than a project. If the previously mentioned projects are too involved for your DIY preferences, then you can just get some paint and design your vinyl to be the perfect wall decoration! This is also a great craft to do with others of all ages.

Image credit: acrylicandvinyl.tumblr.com

Let us know if you decide to try any of these DIY projects! We would also love to hear if you have any other ideas for vinyl. Happy crafting!