20 Fun Ways To Organize And Display Your Vinyl Collection
Vinyl records are less convenient and more expensive than digital music. So why are they still sold and enjoyed today?
Perhaps because vinyl's retro appearance can remind us of the past. Using vinyl in interior design can create a nostalgic vibe in a room. It also allows individuals to proudly put their music taste on display. Records can be fun items to collect from old vintage or thrift stores, per Inside Hook. Additionally, some claim that vinyl sounds better than digital recordings — or, if not better, at least different. While digital music only touches our sense of hearing, vinyl also has an impact on our sight and touch (and possibly smell, if your record is truly vintage). This can make you feel more connected to the music.
If you're a vinyl lover, you may want to display your collection in your home. Vinyl records typically have a simplistic and alluring appearance. Record jackets can also become great decor pieces. To make an impactful space, you'll need to organize your collection in an appealing and useful way. Below are 20 fun ways to organize and display your vinyl collection.
1. As wall art
Records outside their jackets can make great wall art pieces. Displaying them in a vertical line will bring the eye up in a space. Typically, records are shiny black, but they also come in just about any color you can imagine (including transparent). A colored record could enliven a neutral space.
2. On a bookshelf
A record could also be displayed on a bookshelf. Placing a smaller art piece in front, as demonstrated above, can add a dynamic and layered look. Filling the rest of the bookshelf with books and other decor pieces will create an eclectic vibe.
3. On a floating shelf
Similarly, a record could be displayed on a floating shelf. Displaying your records for everyone to see will not only make them fun decor but will also make them easily accessible. When you want to listen to some music, just take it off the shelf and place it on your turntable.
4. In a record player
A fun way to store and display vinyl is by keeping a record in your record player. This will give your home a lived-in and cozy appearance. It will also make listening to music extra convenient. Just place the needle in the groove and let it play.
5. In an entertainment center
Storing vinyl in an entertainment center is an easy and accessible storage option. Placing it on a shelf that perfectly allows each piece to stand up will make it look purposeful. Adding these pieces to an already retro-looking room with vintage wallpaper and colorful furniture will make your space appear cohesive.
6. In a table cubby
Some vinyl stands come with cubbies that perfectly fit the jackets. This will make your collection look like it belongs in this piece of furniture. And, it will make your vinyl easily accessible since it's all stored right next to the record player.
7. Cover a wall
To really display your music taste, you could cover a wall in record jackets. This would create the look of a unique and personalized wallpaper and would be ideal for a feature wall. This would add lots of interest and character to any room.
8. Along the bottom of a console table
If you have an extensive collection, lining up your vinyl covers along the bottom shelf of a console table with your player sitting on top can create an interesting and beautiful-looking storage solution. Decorating with colorful furniture will give your space a retro feel.
9. In a wooden crate
Wooden crates are perfect for storing vinyl. When placed upright, most jackets should line up perfectly in a crate. Or, you could turn the crate on its side to make a natural-looking storage shelf.
10. In a cube shelf
A cube shelf can easily fit vinyl jackets. To create a less orderly and more eclectic look, you could lean the jackets every which way, as pictured above. For a more orderly and minimalist look, you could stack them upright in just a few cube cubbies.
11. Displayed out of the jackets
Taking records out of their jackets and displaying them on a table will give your space a vintage feel. Because records are round, they will add more interest to your space. However, this may not be a good option for truly vintage vinyl, as the pieces may get dirty or damaged.
12. Behind a desk
A record can be a beautiful art piece. Placing one in a glass case and displaying it behind your desk can add a fun look to your space. Since most vinyl has a simplistic black design, this art piece shouldn't distract you from your work.
13. Stacked next to a record player
Vinyl could also be displayed in a large stack next to the player. When using this method, only the very edge of the jackets will be shown. Therefore, this will give a mostly monochromatic appearance, which can make this choice ideal for completely neutral rooms.
14. Framed and hung
You could place multiple records in a large frame and hang them on the wall, which would create a nostalgic feel. However, if utilizing this method, only display records you don't usually use, as you probably won't want to take apart the frame every time you listen to music.
15. Leaning against a speaker
For a simplistic appearance, lean your vinyl jackets against a large speaker. This will make your records easily accessible and also create an appealing display. It could also remind the onlooker of an old-fashioned vinyl store that's filled with stacks and stacks of records.
16. On a skinny shelf
A record in a glass case could be displayed on a skinny shelf. This would bring a personal element into your space. When displaying on a thin bookcase, it's a good idea to give the record its own shelf, so it can truly shine.
17. Used as a layering piece
A record could be used as a layering piece to create a more dynamic look. Placing a record behind another decor piece can provide a subtle vintage appearance in a space that won't draw lots of attention.
18. On a gallery wall
When used on a gallery wall, a record could help break up the straight lines of lots of rectangular or square picture frames. It is also a great piece to use in a mostly neutral gallery wall, as the shiny black appearance doesn't demand attention.
19. Lined up in threes
When displaying records on the wall, it's best to put them in groups of odd numbers. You've probably heard of the rule of thirds in photography and art, but it's also a good rule for decor. Try hanging them up in groups of three for an impactful look.
20. On a vinyl holder
You could purchase a holder specifically made to hold vinyl jackets. This display case is made of wood with black dividers to help the jackets stand up. It also has extra space on the edge to hold your phone or a decor item.