Doing something creative with an old cordless drill can be a great way to extend its life and get some use out of it. But what are some of the best things to do with an old cordless drill? We’ve rounded up five creative ideas for what to do with your old cordless drill that will help you put it to good use. From turning it into a power tool for making art to repurposing it for DIY projects around the house, see how you can get creative with your old cordless drill.
Creative Ideas for Old Cordless Drills
1. Build a Wall-Mounted Storage – Transform your old cordless drill into a handy storage system. Use it to hang things like keys, tools, cords, and more. You can even use it to hang your drill bits.
2. Create a Garden Planter – Drill a few holes in the bottom of your old cordless drill to create a unique planter. Fill it with soil and your favorite plants and you have a great addition to your garden.
3. Convert to a Screwdriver – Turn your old cordless drill into a screwdriver by simply removing the battery and using the chuck to hold a variety of screwdriver bits.
4. Make a Candle Holder – Drill a few holes in your old cordless drill and add a few candles for a unique candle holder.
5. Use it as a Paperweight – If you’re looking for something to hold down your papers, why not use your old cordless drill as a paperweight? You can even customize it with decals or paint.
Repurposing the Drill
Repurposing your old cordless drill is one of the most creative ways to make use of its components:
- Create a mini-vacuum cleaner by attaching a vacuum nozzle to the drill.
- Use it for sanding, or attach a metal brush for polishing or scrubbing.
- Attach a paint mixer to the drill to quickly and easily mix paint.
- Utilize the drill to make furniture or other items out of wood.
- Attach a buffing wheel to the drill to bring old leather goods back to life.
Don’t forget to recycle any old cordless drills and batteries that can’t be saved.
Turning the Drill into a Planter
You will need:
- Cordless drill
- Masking tape
- Drill bit
- Screws
- Plastic container
- Soil
- Plants
Using a drill bit, create several holes on the sides of the drill and the plastic container. Secure the plastic container to the drill using screws. Place some soil in the container and add the plants. Finally, tape the plastic container to the drill to keep it in place. Your unique planter is now ready to be used!
Making a Lamp
- Gather Materials: Drill, drill bits, lamp socket, lamp wiring kit, lamp shade, washers, screws, and switch.
- Drill a Hole: Drill a hole in the bottom of the lamp shade for the switch and the socket.
- Attach the Socket: Insert the socket into the drilled hole and secure with washers and screws. Connect the wiring to the socket.
- Attach the Switch: Drill a hole for the switch and insert it in the drilled hole. Connect the wiring to the switch.
- Complete the Lamp: Connect the wiring from the switch to the socket and attach the lamp shade. Test the lamp.
Crafting a Wind Chimes
You can use your old cordless drill to make your own wind chimes. Start by collecting a variety of items that will sound great when they are struck together. Ideal items include metal spoons, keys, and washers. Make sure to pick items of varying weights and sizes; this will create a unique and beautiful sound.
Once you have selected your items, use a marker to make a hole in each one. Then, use the cordless drill to make the hole larger. Next, attach the items to a wooden board or dowel using screws or wire. You can also use string or twine to hang them from the board. Finally, add a hook to the top of the board so you can hang it.
Once the wind chimes are ready, take them outside and hang them from a tree or fence. Then sit back and enjoy the soothing sound of the chimes.
Decorating an Outdoor Space
- Lighting: Making use of your old cordless drill can be a great way to add lighting to your outdoor space. You can use it to hang string lights, lanterns, or even mason jar lights.
- Planters: With the help of your trusty cordless drill, you can hang planters on your walls or in trees. You can even put the drill to use by creating a planter stand with a few pieces of wood.
- Wind Chimes: An old cordless drill can be used to hang wind chimes in your outdoor space. You can use it to hang the chimes from the eaves of your home or from a tree branch.
- Trellises: With the help of your drill, you can easily create a trellis for your outdoor space. You can use it to hang flower pots or to create an ornate feature in your garden or patio.
- Outdoor Artwork: You can use your old cordless drill to hang any type of artwork you’d like to display in your outdoor space. You can hang paintings, sculptures, or even mirrors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I repurpose my old cordless drill?
1. Create a Sander: Attach sandpaper to the drill bit and use it to sand down wood, metal, or other surfaces.
2. Make a Lamp: Drill a hole into a piece of wood and use it to anchor a lamp.
3. Build a Mixer: Attach a mixing paddle to the drill bit and use it to mix paint or mortar.
4. Paint a Wall: Attach a paint roller to the drill bit and use it to quickly paint a wall.
5. Drill Holes: Use the drill bit to make holes in wood, metal, or other surfaces.
What are some creative ways to use my old cordless drill?
1. Make a hole in a metal can and use it as a DIY candle holder.
2. Transform it into a mini-lathe to create your own wooden art pieces.
3. Use it to make a mini-vacuum cleaner for cleaning up small messes around your home.
4. Create a DIY mini-cordless drill stand for easy storage and access.
5. Use it for your next jewelry making project to bore small holes in beads.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when repurposing my old cordless drill?
Always wear protective gear, including safety glasses and gloves, when using a cordless drill. Make sure the drill is in good working condition, and that all parts are securely connected. Check the battery and make sure it is fully charged before use. Unplug the drill when not in use and when making adjustments or repairs. Keep the area well ventilated when using a cordless drill.
Are there any special tools or materials I need to repurpose my old cordless drill?
No, you don’t need any special tools or materials to repurpose your old cordless drill. Depending on the project you have in mind, you may need some basic supplies like screws, nails, glue, or fabric. If you’re using your drill to create a piece of furniture, you may need to invest in some woodworking tools. But other than that, no specialized tools are required.
What are some of the most common uses for an old cordless drill?
1. DIY Projects: Cordless drills are great for completing DIY projects around the house. They can be used for drilling holes, driving screws and bolts, and sanding and polishing surfaces.
2. Woodworking: Old cordless drills are also perfect for woodworking projects. They can be used to drill holes, drive screws, and even to make intricate cuts.
3. Automotive Work: An old cordless drill can also be used for automotive work. They are great for loosening and tightening screws and bolts, as well as drilling holes in metal surfaces.
4. Gardening: An old cordless drill can be used for gardening tasks, such as drilling holes for planting, as well as for assembling garden furniture.
5. Crafting: Cordless drills are also great for crafting projects. They can be used to drill holes, drive screws, and even to make intricate cuts in fabric, paper, and other materials.
Conclusion
Upcycling an old cordless drill is an awesome way to make something new and unique. With a little creativity and some hard work, you can easily turn your old cordless drill into something special. Whether you’re looking to create a new piece of furniture, a custom toolbox, or even a planter, there are plenty of creative ideas to explore.
