Melting vinyl records into bowls is a fun and unique way to repurpose old or unwanted records. With a few tools and some patience, you can create beautiful, one-of-a-kind bowls that are perfect for displaying small items or holding trinkets.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to melt vinyl records into bowls:
What you’ll need
Gather your materials. You will need a heat gun, oven mitts, a metal bowl, and a vinyl record. It’s important to note that the record should be one that you no longer want to listen to, as the process will damage the record and make it unplayable.
Making the vinyl bowl
Step 1: Place the metal bowl upside down on a heat-resistant surface. This will be the mold for your bowl, so make sure it’s the size and shape you want.
Step 2: Hold the vinyl record with the oven mitts, and use the heat gun to heat the edge of the record. Hold the heat gun at a safe distance and make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area.
Step 3: Once the edge of the record is heated, start to gently bend it over the metal bowl. Keep heating and bending until the entire record is draped over the bowl. Make sure the edges of the record are touching the bottom of the bowl.
Step 4: Use the heat gun to heat the bottom of the record, where it’s touching the bowl. This will cause the record to melt and take the shape of the bowl. Be careful not to overheat the record, as it can become too hot to handle and cause burns.
Step 5: Once the record has melted and taken the shape of the bowl, remove the heat gun and let it cool. The bowl will be hot, so use the oven mitts to handle it. Once it’s cool to the touch, gently remove the metal bowl.
Step 6: Trim any excess vinyl from the edges of the bowl using scissors. You can also use a craft knife to smooth out any rough edges.
Step 7: Enjoy your new vinyl record bowl! It can be used to hold small items, trinkets, or even food items.
Please note that this is a craft that requires caution and safety measures. The heat gun gets extremely hot and the melted vinyl is also very hot, so please be careful and use oven mitts and keep a safe distance. Also, the process may produce strong smell and smoke, it’s important to use it in a well-ventilated area.
