I’ve been collecting records since I was a kid. As an adult, I started buying more expensive records, which led me to buy more albums.
Eventually, I had so much music that I decided to start organizing all of it. This has become a passion of mine. It’s also helped me learn about myself and how I think.
I used to store my vinyl records in boxes in my closet. They were packed tightly together, making it impossible to find anything.
My wife would tell me to throw some away, but I didn’t want to lose any of my favorite songs. So, I kept everything.
Over time, I realized that I needed to organize my vinyl collection. I started by moving everything from the boxes to plastic bins. Then, I moved the bins to shelves. Finally, I bought a large cabinet where I can keep all of my vinyl.
The most stressful thing about vinyl record collections is not having a space to store them. One can have a shelf with several hundred dollars but it is fun having a DIY vinyl record storage. In some cases, it’s also cheaper.
If you are a little creative and you own several handy tools, then you will have an easy time building a simple vinyl record storage.
If you’re really into music, check out these DIY pedalboard plans!
Homemade Vinyl Record Storage Ideas & Plans
#1. Vinyl Record Wall Storage Racks
It’s important to build storage for vinyl records. This is especially true if you’re planning to collect vinyl records over the long term. Most of us only own about 100 albums. That means that we need to store our vinyl records in a safe place where they won’t be damaged by heat, humidity, dust, and other factors. And don’t take up too much space like this wall-mounted option.
#2. Vinyl Records
#3. Vinyl Record Frames
Vinyl records are an awesome collectible. They’re durable, portable, and they sound amazing. But, they take up a ton of space. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to store your vinyl records without taking up too much room like these cool wall frames.
#4. Vinyl Record Album Shelf Holders
#5. Homemade Vinyl Record Shelves
#6. Expandable Vinyl Record Display
I’ve been collecting records since I was a kid, and now I have over 2000 LPs. It’s getting harder and harder to find space for all of them, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. You can too with the simple record rack above!
#7. Vinyl Record Display Stand
#8. Concrete Vinyl Record Holder
There are two main types of storage solutions for vinyl records: boxes and shelves. Boxes are cheaper and take up less space, but they can only hold so much weight before they start breaking apart. Shelves are stronger, but they require more room and tend to look messy.
#9. Modular Record Storage Units
When you first buy your vinyl records, you’ll probably want to keep them all together. But, once you’ve been collecting for awhile, you’ll start to notice that certain genres go together.
For instance, I love listening to music from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s, and today. So, it would be silly to try to fit all of those eras into one record shelf. Instead, separate your records by genre using a modular design like the one above.
This helps you find specific albums quicker and makes it easier to listen to different types of music and keep it all organized.
#10. Vinyl Record CD Shelf
#11. Hang Up Your Old Vinyl Records
Most people start by finding a place where you can store your records. A closet might work well for some people, while others prefer a basement or attic. Either way, make sure you keep your records away from heat and humidity. Or build yourself a hanging display if you want to show off your collection!
#12. Vinyl Record Wall Mount Via Shoe Box
#13. How to Build a Modern DIY Vinyl Record Shelf
Remember, just because you’ve built yourself a modern record storage solution, don’t forget to check your records periodically. Once in a while, check your records to make sure they haven’t been damaged. If you notice anything wrong, take action immediately. For example, if you see scratches on your records, try cleaning them with a rubbing alcohol and water combination.
#14. DIY Minimal Record Shelf
#15. Floating Shelf Vinyl Records Storage
Before that, you must plan your project and follow the right procedures. Regardless of the size, follow this guide to make a DIY vinyl record storage solution.
Things You Need
- Turpentine.
- Stain and vanish.
- Tape measure.
- Fine and course sandpaper.
- Drill bit of different sizes.
- Paintbrushes.
- Timber screws preferably 50mm.
Step 1: Select the Perfect Wood Size
Pick the type of wood you want to use on your project. It is advisable to avoid using ply because it warps easily and does not last for long.
However, ply thicker than 16mm can be used if it is sturdy enough. It is worth noting that varnish does not work well with ply.
Remember that you are after woody texture at the end. Pick a big sized slab of ply since it is one of the most crucial ingredients in this project.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
The top and bottom wood panels should be 400 by 300mm. Side panels on the other hand should measure 330 by 320mm. Alternatively, you can purchase already cut wood if you don’t have a table saw.
Step 3: Start Sanding the Wood Pieces
Using the sanding block, sand the wood carefully until it is smooth. To have a smooth surface, consider using 320-grade sandpaper. Don’t forget to sand the wood with the grain.
Step 4: Paint the First Layer of Varnish
Before painting the varnish, make sure that the tin is well stirred. The layer on the brush should not be very thick as this can cause excess drip on the sides of the wood.
The best way is to paint one side at a time and let it dry completely. You must be patient at this point otherwise you will not get the best results.
It would be better if you put the wood flat on a newspaper. It is proved that the tip increases the possibility that the wet wood parts will not stick to the newspaper.
Step 5: Sand the Wood Again
It is time to sand the wood again after the coat is completely dry. As you sand, you can take a look at what you did. Remove brush hairs that were left after painting the first layer.
Step 6: Paint Another Coat
Paint another coat after sanding the layer back and forth. At this point, you should be extra careful about any loose brush hairs. This can end up messing your work. Kindly do it slowly instead of slapping a large bunch at a time.
After that, lay the wood on an angle preferably on a slanting wall. Check if the base is at an angle of 45 degrees from the floor.
Step 7: Sand the Wood the Last Time
Sanding the wood multiple times ensures that it is smooth. Keep in mind that the main goal here is to have the smoothest pieces of wood.
You might be satisfied with several layers of varnish. After sanding the wood, you can start the next step-putting the pieces of wood together.
Step 8: Put the Top and Bottom Wood Pieces above the Sides
With the top and bottom wood pieces above the sides, it’s time to estimate spots to screw in. Mark the spots with a sharp pencil for accuracy. A drill same size as the screw will work better in this case.
Look for an extra-large drill bit after the pilot holes are well drilled. Drill the wood deeper to make sure that the screw head won’t stick out at all. This is quite helpful if you want to have a polished and attractive look.
Step 9: Attach the Panel Supports on the Back
You should only attach the panel supports if you have screwed the top and sides correctly. You can force the wood pieces as you square the corners with the boards.
One must do this to get an equal box. Use as many screws as you would want but remember to drill the screws in a uniform pattern.
Step 10: Attach the Wood to Allow the Boxes to Lock Together
To have an easy time handling this step, you should have the right dimensions of wood. That’s where tape measure comes in.
Use the tape measure accurately and with a lot of patience. It is the easiest step if you did the previous steps as required.
Step 11: Carry Your Vinyl Record Storage
Now that the project is complete, you can take your DIY Vinyl record storage and place it somewhere your friends can see your perfect project. That’s how easy it is to build vinyl record storage. You just need the right tools, correct dimensions, and following the instructions.
Tips to Make DIY Vinyl Record Storage
- Consider using super chic metallic shades of paint. The paint is not only attractive but also last longer when compared to other cheap paints.
- Use a tape measure to measure the dimensions of your wood pieces. If you don’t know how to cut the woods, you can look for a professional to do it for you. This will give you an easy time when combining the wood pieces as you complete the project.
- Use coarse sand paper from the start. This ensures that you spend a little time when sanding down the wood pieces. After using the coarse sandpaper, you can smoothen the pieces of wood using smooth but quality sandpaper.
- Mount the hinges before combining the wood pieces.
Here are some tips for storing your vinyl collection:
- Don’t put them in boxes. Boxes are great for shipping purposes, but they don’t hold up well over time.
- Store them in climate-controlled areas. Heat causes vinyl records to warp and crack.
- Use acid-free materials to protect your vinyl.
- Have a designated area for your vinyl collection.
- Set aside a specific amount of time every week to listen to your vinyl.
Final Thoughts
If you want something done the perfect way, you should do it yourself. With the above guide, you can have quality vinyl record storage that is simple and built for the long-term. Follow the instructions and have all the tools.
Hi, my name’s Elena Coolidge. I’m a DIY enthusiast who loves building fun woodworking plans. These DIY plans are fun hobby projects for enthusiasts or even more advanced builders that want to build things like bunk beds, end tables or even a duck box!
