Bootleg your records

Die Zeit newspaper in Germany has an interesting photo gallery on their site about how to create a bootleg copy of a vinyl record. No, not by recording the LP to cassette or to a computer, but by actually making a mold of the record, which results in your own plastic copy groove for groove. The photo gallery is here. With each photo are annotations that describe what materials are needed, cost, and instructions for preparing your copy disc. Basically, you construct a wooden box and lay the record to be copied inside. The next step is to pour silicone over the record and let it dry for six hours. The silicone copy just peels away. After you have the silicone master, you pour plastic onto it and let it set. Then you have created a copy of the record. How good of a copy it is remains to be seen, and the total cost for materials is around 60€. That said, it’s an interesting concept, and definitely should pique any vinyl enthusiast’s interest.

Tags: bootleg · die zeit · silicone · vinyl · wissen magazin