Whether you realize it or not, thrift stores are full of old technology. And by old technology, I mean all sorts of things- old computer parts, VHS tapes, typewriter tables, and even photo albums. The relics of old technology are as discarded as the tech itself, which makes them ripe for repurposing projects, if you ask me!
It gets a little overwhelming when you think about. All those cassette tapes that pile up at thrift stores. Or the record albums! As soon as tech is improved upon, we all rush out to get the latest and greatest.
Well, maybe not all of us. But let’s face it, a lot of us do!
To me, it means a LOT of potential for repurposing projects. And I’m certainly no stranger to taking the relics of obsolete technology and putting them to good reuse.
Like this industrial side table I made from VHS storage drawers.
And this tabletop greenhouse I made for starting seeds! I upcycled a floppy disk holder to create it, and it worked like a charm.
See what I mean? Old technology is everywhere- and you don’t have to know anything about electronics to repurpose it. Or, at least you don’t if you focus on the things that accompanied old tech.
Like these address books that I upcycled for a very modern purpose!
Either way, I thought it would be fun to gather all sorts of repurposing projects for outdated technology. Because I’m certainly not the only blogger who enjoys finding ways to reuse these things!
And if you still use any of these old tapes, tables, and devices for their original use, even better! But for the discarded bits, a little creative reuse can go a long way. So, I hope you find some upcycling inspiration here.
Repurposing Projects for Old Technology
Are you inspired now to dig out that old technology and possibly repurpose it? Maybe an old TV, or a telephone table, or even just an album cover that you can’t bear to part with?
Either way, chances are you’ve held onto old tech (or the relics of tech from your adolescence!) that is ripe for repurposing. And if you didn’t have any ideas before, hopefully you might have some to work with now.
I also feel personally challenged to come up with more repurposing ideas for old technology to share here on the blog, too. Maybe something with old VHS tapes or 8-track tapes? You just see SO MANY of those things at thrift stores.
And I do love to come up with upcycling projects using easy-to-find stuff, that’s for sure!
Anyway, here’s hoping you feel inspired the next time you go to a thrift store or even clean out a closet! Those outdated relics might just be what the (repurposing) doctor ordered.
If you enjoyed these upcycling ideas for outdated technology, then you may get a kick of how I created this decorative pocket watch for wall decor, too!
Craft on!
S
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Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
These ideas are amazing and SO pertinent. Can’t wait to try a bunch of them. Thank you for this post!
You are very welcome, Tess!
You are soooo creative!!! I love your posts and your imagination!
Looked over your tech, upgrades!!! So excited about the vintage typewriter!!!! Have one in my basement!!! I will run down and bring it upstairs, after I finish this and feed my dog!!! She is scraping her bowl now!!!!
Carrie