DIY A Vinyl Record Storage Box Using Just Two Affordable Items

After a long day, nothing beats the warm, relaxing sound of your favorite record spinning on a turntable. If you're familiar with this feeling, then you've probably amassed quite the collection of vinyl records over the years. Unlike digital music files on your phone, vinyl records require adequate storage to keep them in good working condition. Luckily, there are a ton of fun ways to organize and display your vinyl collection. Many people opt to stack records on a bookshelf or on a specific record display stand that also houses your record player. Others may choose to create a vinyl album accent wall with an IKEA home decor staple. But if you don't have room in your home for any of these items, a simple wooden crate and dish rack will do the trick.

This DIY is simple and affordable, especially since you can thrift all of the materials for cheap. You may even have one or both of the items floating around your house already, making it even more cost-effective. If you can't find a suitable dish rack, a file folder rack will work as well. You can also elevate this project with a little paint to give it a personal touch or to help it better fit your current home decor aesthetic.

To complete this DIY, start by finding a wooden box or crate that's big enough to accommodate your records easily. Then, place your divider — either a dish organizer rack or a file folder rack — inside the crate. Taking measurements before you buy the rack ensures it will fit within the crate. If you want to prevent it from sliding, glue it down or use brackets to hold it in place. You can also add dots of hot glue on the bottom of the rack and let them dry to create a grippy bottom. 

Painting or staining your wooden box helps you achieve a look you love. You can also add other embellishments, like trim or textured panels, on the outside of the crate. Adding wheels to the bottom makes the vinyl holder portable. However you choose to decorate, just make sure your records are stored upright in a cool, dry place. 

And now that your simple vinyl record storage box is complete all you have to think about is sorting your vinyl records; alphabetize or not? The dividers make it easier to sort your collection, whatever method you choose. Add labels to make the sections easier to identify. Using dividers like this in your crate will prevent damage that is sometimes caused by two records sliding against each other. If you have a large collection, you may want to look for boxes that are stackable to save space.