Got some old lawn bowls collecting dust in your garage? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves wondering what to do with these once-loved sports items. Whether they’ve been replaced by newer equipment or you’ve simply moved on from the game, these bowls can feel like a burden.
Key Takeaways
- Consider Donation: Local clubs or community centers often accept old lawn bowls, providing them to new players while giving your items a second life.
- Selling Opportunities: Use online marketplaces such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace to sell bowls; pricing them fairly based on their condition can attract buyers.
- Creative Repurposing: Transform lawn bowls into unique items like planters, bird feeders, or decorative garden art to enhance your home and yard aesthetics.
- Proper Storage: If you might return to the sport, ensure bowls are stored properly in a protective bag to maintain their condition for future use.
- Responsible Disposal: If the bowls are beyond repair, consult local waste management for eco-friendly disposal options to minimize environmental impact.
- Community Connections: Engage with local lawn bowling clubs or online forums to find enthusiasts who may be interested in your old bowls or share inspiration for their reuse.
Understanding Old Lawn Bowls
Old lawn bowls often carry sentimental value. You might feel attached to them due to memories of games played with friends and family. However, if you’re unsure about what to do with them, several options exist.
Potential Options
- Donate: Local clubs or community centers often welcome donations. Contact them to see if they accept used lawn bowls for new players.
- Sell: Online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace allow you to reach interested buyers. Check similar listings to set a fair price.
- Repurpose: Instead of tossing them, consider creative recycling. Turn bowls into garden planters or unique decor pieces.
- Store: If you think you may return to lawn bowling, store them safely. Use a protective bag to keep them in good condition.
- Disposal: If the bowls are beyond repair, dispose of them responsibly. Check with local waste management for proper disposal methods.
What to Prepare
Before deciding, evaluate the condition of your bowls. Check for cracks or chipping. Take note of their weight and material, as this affects resale value and usability. May also want to clean them before donating or selling to enhance their appeal.
- Can I still use old lawn bowls for play? Yes, as long as they’re in decent condition. Inspect them carefully before using.
- Where can I find lawn bowls enthusiasts? Join local clubs or online forums. Connect with others who share your interest.
These options and tips provide pathways for dealing with your old lawn bowls. Each choice allows you to give these items new life or find peace in letting them go.
Creative Uses For Old Lawn Bowls
Old lawn bowls can transform into unique and functional items around your home or yard. Here are some excellent ways to give them a second life.
Upcycling Ideas
- Planters: Fill old lawn bowls with soil and plant vibrant flowers or herbs. They make great indoor or outdoor planters.
- Bird Feeders: Attach a bowl to a post or tree branch. Fill it with birdseed, attracting colorful birds to your yard.
- Garden Markers: Paint and label bowls with the names of plants. Stick them in the ground next to your flowers or vegetables for a creative garden marker.
- Paper Weights: Use heavy bowls on your desk to hold down documents or notes. They add a rustic touch to your workspace.
- Table Centerpieces: Fill bowls with decorative items like pebbles, sand, or even seasonal decorations for a stylish centerpiece.
- Garden Art: Paint and decorate bowls with bright colors or patterns. Hang them on walls or fences as artistic accents in your garden.
- Water Features: Stack bowls of varying sizes to create a small water fountain. Add a solar-powered pump for an eco-friendly water feature.
- Pathway Stones: Position them along garden paths for a unique look. Fill them with concrete and create functional stepping stones.
- BIRD BATHS: Place a bowl on a pedestal or stand at the garden’s edge. Fill it with water to create a spot for birds to bathe and drink.
- Garden Borders: Arrange bowls along the border of flower beds to create a distinct boundary. They can add charm and keep mulch in place.
Using your old lawn bowls creatively not only declutters space but also adds character and fun to your home and garden.
Donating Or Selling Old Lawn Bowls
Old lawn bowls serve a purpose beyond personal use. Consider donating or selling them. Both options can give your old bowls a new lease on life.
Finding Local Charities
Local charities often welcome sports equipment donations. Contact community centers, youth clubs, or schools to see if they need bowls for their programs. Search for local lawn bowling clubs, as they usually accept donations for members or new players. Check with organizations like Goodwill or Salvation Army as well; they may accept your old bowls. Ensure the items are clean and in good condition to facilitate smoother donations.
Online Selling Platforms
Selling old lawn bowls online offers a quick way to connect with interested buyers. Use platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist to reach local buyers. Be clear about the condition of the bowls in your listings, and include high-quality photos for better visibility. Set a fair price based on the quality and age of your bowls. Consider joining local lawn bowling groups on social media. These communities may have members looking for equipment, increasing your chances of a sale.
Repurposing Old Lawn Bowls
Repurposing old lawn bowls offers a fun, creative way to breathe new life into these items while adding unique touches to your home and garden.
Craft Projects
Transform old lawn bowls into eye-catching craft projects.
- Planters: Create a charming planter by drilling drainage holes in the bottom of a lawn bowl. Fill it with potting soil and your favorite flowers or herbs.
- Bird Feeders: Attach a small dish or tray to the base of a bowl, fill it with birdseed, and hang it outside. This attracts local birds while reusing your bowls.
- Garden Art: Paint or decorate bowls and display them in your garden or on your porch. Stack several bowls to create whimsical sculptures.
Functional Uses
Old lawn bowls can also serve practical functions around your home.
- Doorstops: Use heavier bowls as doorstops to keep doors ajar. This is especially useful during warmer seasons.
- Succulent Holders: Transform bowls into stylish holders for small succulent arrangements. Their unique shape adds visual interest to any tabletop.
- Weight for Exercise Routines: Repurpose bowls as weights for light strength training. Their compact size makes them easy to handle during workouts.
These options allow you to make the most out of your old lawn bowls, keeping them out of landfills while enhancing your living space.
Conclusion
Old lawn bowls don’t have to gather dust in a corner. Whether you choose to donate them to a local club or get creative with upcycling, there are plenty of ways to give your bowls a second chance. If selling feels right you can reach out to fellow enthusiasts or list them online.
Remember that these items hold memories and can still bring joy to others. So take a moment to evaluate your options and decide what works best for you. With a little thought you can turn those old bowls into something meaningful again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do with old lawn bowls I don’t use anymore?
If you have old lawn bowls that you no longer use, consider donating them to local clubs or charities. You can also sell them online through platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. If you’re feeling creative, think about repurposing them into garden art or planters. If they are beyond repair, responsibly dispose of them.
How can I evaluate the condition of my old lawn bowls?
To assess the condition of your old lawn bowls, check for visible damage like cracks, dents, or significant wear on the surface. Ensure they are not warped and roll evenly. Clean them thoroughly and consider the weight; if they are relatively intact, they might still be suitable for play or sale.
Where can I donate old lawn bowls?
You can donate old lawn bowls to local lawn bowling clubs, community centers, or youth sports organizations. National charities like Goodwill or the Salvation Army often accept sports equipment. Check with these organizations for specific donation guidelines.
How can I effectively sell old lawn bowls online?
To sell old lawn bowls online, choose platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. When listing, provide clear, detailed descriptions of their condition and include high-quality photos. Engage with local lawn bowling groups on social media to reach potential buyers interested in your items.
What are some creative ways to repurpose old lawn bowls?
Old lawn bowls can be creatively repurposed into various functional items. Consider turning them into unique planters, bird feeders, or garden decor. They can also serve as doorstops, succulent holders, or workout weights. Use your imagination to give them a new life in your home or garden.
