If you go to any thrift store, you’re bound to find at least one shelf or corner that houses the used sports equipment. Tennis rackets, hockey sticks, bowling balls, you name it- all of that old sports equipment often ends up at thrift stores or yard sales. So, if you’ve ever wondered what to do with old sports equipment, then you’re in the right place. Because there are tons of upcycle ideas for all those rackets, bats, balls, and more.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Upcycle Ideas for Used Sports Equipment
Upcycling old sports stuff is particularly gratifying for multiple reasons. One, it likely cost a pretty penny when it was purchased new, so it feels like you’re getting your money’s worth. Two, a lot of different equipment takes up space in your home or is awkward to stow away. Which makes repurposing it into something functional or decorative gets it out of the closet or garage. And three, maybe you bought it for a kid who quit the sport 2 months later- now what? So, with all that in mind, let me show you a few favorite projects before we get to the full collection.
Old croquet sets are exceptionally charming and something you find while thrifting from time to time. And the mallets are especially craft-worthy; check out how cute this sunburst wreath is.
Image credit: Lora B.
And wooden tennis rackets are definitely a common sight on thrift store shelves. Modern rackets are so much more powerful, so the wooden versions are left to collect dust. But there are lots of ways to repurpose them; can you believe these funky boho necklace pendants came from old rackets?
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Who knew they looked like that inside- and each one is different. Trust me, I’ve cut into a lot of them over the years!
What about a forgotten billiard ball rack? They seems kind of plain and innocuous at first, but they really do have home decor potential. As showcased with this repurposed floating shelf…
Image credit: Home to Heather.
You can even make garden decor with used sports equipment, too- especially using bowling balls as a base. How cool is this mosaic gazing ball to put out in your yard?
Image credit: House of Hawthornes.
Used sports equipment is great for upcycling into seasonal and holiday decor, too. For instance, I upcycled a single snow shoe into a quirky door hanger for Christmas.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
But this is just a taste of all the projects you can create with sporting goods. Bats, balls, rackets, and more- there are so many projects you can make with it. Whether you find it at a thrift store or tucked away in your own home. Check out the full collection below:
What to Do With Old Sports Equipment
So many good upcycling ideas for whichever kind of sports equipment is lurking in your closet, garage, or on a thrift store shelf. Even if you don’t think something is upcyclable, it probably actually is.
And for sports enthusiasts, these upcycle ideas make gift ideas, too. Such as a pair of DIY bookends for a baseball lover, perhaps?
Image credit: Virginia Sweetpea.
It really is amazing how versatile sporting goods can be. I just hope you’ve found some creative inspiration from this collection. Repurposing items that you don’t use anymore (or have extra of, like golf tees) really does feel validating.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
And don’t forget to consider upcycle ideas for non-sports equipment that could be applied to sporting stuff. Like this idea for vintage horse brass, which could certainly be applied to race medals instead.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Either way, hopefully you’ll be able to put your used sporting goods to new reuse now! There is simply SO MUCH CREATIVITY out there for old sports equipment, isn’t there?
Whether you want something decorative for the yard or functional for your home (like this memo board), this collection is perfect for you.
Image credit: Homeroad.
If you enjoyed these repurposing ideas, then you may also enjoy this snack basket that looks like a football stadium. Perfect for game day when everyone comes over to watch the big game!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Craft on!
S
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Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
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.
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