How to Make a Repurposed Record Album Bowl and Tray with a Torch

This article, DIY Repurposed Record Album Bowl, is sponsored by Bernzomatic®. All opinions are 100% my own.

I have seen a few tutorials for how to melt a record in the oven, however, that technique seems to be more difficult than using a torch. A torch allows you more control and freedom to achieve the desired bowl or tray shape. In this post you will learn:

• Where to find vinyl record albums
• What you need to make your own
• How to melt and shape a record album bowl or tray
• Safety precautions when taking on this project

Where to Find Old Record Albums

My husband collects records. In fact, one our favorite things to do is a family is blast his collection for our Friday night dance parties. We’ve done this since our oldest daughter was 3 years old.

The records I used for this project were given to my husband by his dad. He gave him his entire collection, and they have been collecting dust in our garage for years. Of course, we will keep many of them, but the ones used for this project he did not want. Don’t worry, we Googled each title to make sure they were not rare albums.

If you don’t have a family member with an old unwanted collection, you can buy old records at thrift stores, online auctions, and flea markets at a very inexpensive price.

Watch the Repurposed Record Album Bowl Video

Watch this video on how I made these bowls. Note the two different techniques. Get the detailed materials list and instructions below.

Here’s What You Need

Time: 30-60 Minutes

Materials

• Vinyl Record Albums
• Metal Bowl
• Cookie Sheet
• Brick (or similar heavy object)
• Bernzomatic ST3500T
• Bernzomatic Propane
• Work Gloves
• Mask & Safety Glasses

Instructions

Place the metal bowl upside down on a metal cookie sheet. Place the record on the top center and use a brick to hold it down. A lipped cookie sheet will allow you to easily turn the bowl as you shape.

I found that the best torch to use is the Bernzomatic ST3500T. It is a multiuse torch with a trigger-start. Make sure you are wearing heat resistant gloves. Screw the torch on to Bernzomatic Propane and push the trigger to ignite the flame.

Slowly move the flame side to side to melt the record. Note that all records aren’t created equal. Some are not as sturdy or thick as others. This will affect the amount of heat you will need to melt them as well as the length of time it takes to melt.

Once you see the record melting, turn off your torch and start molding with your gloved hands. Start on one side, then do the opposite side, then third side, then fourth side. Continue to melt and shape as needed to create your own design.

The bowl will harden almost immediately.

Safety Precautions

Here are a few safety precautions when making your repurposed record album bowl.

Not Food Safe

Please note that these bowls are not food safe. The fruit pictured in this post is artificial and used for decorative purposes only. You can use these bowls for wrapped candy, a key tray, or makeup tray.

Beware of Fumes

It is important to note that melting records can cause toxic fumes. This is another reason why melting a record in an oven is not ideal because food is cooked in an oven. Consider wearing a mask and work in a well-ventilated area.

Safety While Working with a Torch

Here are a few general safety tips you should consider before you try this project:

• Read and follow all safety warnings included with the torch and propane cylinder.
• As mentioned, use protective gloves, safety glasses, and mask.
• Make sure your torch is completely turned off when not in use.
• Allow your torch to cool completely before putting it away.

I hope you like my DIY repurposed record album bowl and tray tutorial and give it a try!

You May Also Like

Here are a few more torch projects you might enjoy.