Repurpose cassettes into handy hold-alls

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Felt
• Safety goggles
• 2 x bolts & nuts
• Strong ribbon or old leather belt
• 12 old cassette tapes (find some at a thrift store if you don’t have any)
• Strong glue (I used Pratley Quick Set Clear)
• File/small saw/rotary tool or sander
• Fine sanding paper

HERE’S WHAT TO DO:

1. File down that little piece on the sides of the tapes. Remember to wear safety goggles as small pieces of plastic will fly everywhere! Smooth the edges with fine sanding paper.
   
   
2. Glue 10 tapes in pairs of 2 on the short edges. Glue two pairs together; top to bottom - this will be the front and back pieces. The remaining piece is the bottom. Glue the bottom piece to the front piece, just above the ridge.
   
   
3. Add the back piece to the bottom piece. Insert any object of the same height for support. (I used the cassettes that will be the sides)
   
   
4. Glue the last two tapes that will form the sides.
   
   

FINAL OPTION 1 – REMOTE HOLDER
At this stage, you can opt to leave it as is and use it as a remote-control holder or as a centre piece.



Alternatively, you can convert it into a handbag:

1. Measure the length of the ribbon which will be your strap. I measured 2 cms from either end and cut a small X in the ribbon to attach it to the tapes.
   
   
2. Measure and cut the felt to size: 2x 10x6cm (sides); 2x 18x10cm (front and back); 1x 18x6cm (bottom). Glue the ribbon and felt on the inside of the holder using clear glue. Push the bolt from the outside through the holes of the tape cassette and felt. Fasten with nut.
   
   

FINAL OPTION 2 – HANDBAG
Your bag is ready to go!



Lindie Loock is married to John and lives in Swakopmund. She’s a happy mom of 3 children (Jaundré, Talia & Jahzara) and enjoys cycling & crafting in her spare time.