How to Make Bowls Out of 33 RPM Records

So, you have a box (or two or three) of old vinyl LPs in the basement, garage or attic and you don't know what to do with them. Throwing them out just isn't an option. They represent your youth. The time when life was carefree. Let's make them into something useful and fun.

Things You'll Need

• 33 RPM LP vinyl records
• 2 Oven-proof bowls
• Baking tray
• Oven mitts
• Scribble paints, gems, other decorative items (optional)
• Water based satin finish polycrylic
• Small brush or sponge for application (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Gather all your supplies. Remove vinyl records from cases and sleeves. Remove all but one rack in your oven. Position remaining rack in lowest position. Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. 

   Arrange the smaller of the two bowls upside down on center of baking sheet. Place vinyl record on bowl with the label centered. Set the larger bowl centered upside down on top of the record.

3. Bake until the vinyl LP begins to melt and the larger bowl has developed folds in the record as it forms around the smaller bowl. This will take approximately one or two minutes.

4. With oven mitts, remove entire contents of tray from oven. Then, remove the larger bowl. The vinyl will cool quickly, but while still warm you can manually shape larger, deeper folds or smooth out the existing ones. If you don't like what you see, place back in the oven until soft and pliable again.

5. Once you are happy with the result, allow your bowl to cool for several minutes. Now it's time to really make it your own. Add designs with colorful scribble paints. Glue on gems, buttons or foam shapes. Go crazy and use your imagination. This is your project, so make it as funky, wild or as classic as you like.

6. To protect the label of the LP, brush both sides with water based satin finish polycrylic. Allow to dry overnight. You now have an original work of art! Make several and share with friends. These bowls are great as snack bowls for your retro, hip-hop or sixties themed parties. Place one on your entry table for keys or coins and let it remind you of the fabulous days of long past every time you open your front door.

Tips & Warnings

• Great for party snack bowls. Give as gifts. Just think if you find that special song on an LP as a reminder for couple celebrating an anniversary. Kids love to decorate their rooms with them.

• Children should have supervision while working with the oven and hot vinyl. Use only for dry foods.

References

• Photo Credits