If you’ve ever dug through old craft supplies, you might notice some items that once seemed essential but now just feel like clutter. Over time, certain retro crafting materials lose their charm and usefulness, becoming more of a hassle than a help.
This article highlights eight retro craft supplies that have mostly turned into junk and aren’t worth holding onto anymore. Knowing which items to let go of can save you space and help you focus on more practical and enjoyable materials for your projects.
Typewriter Ribbon Cartridges
If you still have a typewriter, you know ribbon cartridges were once essential. These cartridges held the ink that made your typing visible, but now they’re mostly obsolete.
Finding fresh ribbons can be tricky since most people moved on to digital tech. You might stumble upon vintage or specialty shops selling replacements, but they often feel like a hassle in today’s world.
Using these cartridges today is more about nostalgia than necessity, as modern printers and screens dominate how we create text.
Polaroid Instant Film
If you loved snapping instant photos, Polaroid instant film was your go-to. It gave you that cool retro feel, but now, it’s mostly outdated.
You might still find some film packs, but most are for newer cameras, not the vintage ones you grew up with. Plus, it can be pricey and tricky to use.
So, if you’re holding onto those old film packs, they’re more nostalgic keepsakes than practical craft supplies these days.
Vintage Wooden Spools
You might have seen vintage wooden spools in old sewing kits or thrift stores. They were once useful for holding thread, but now most people find them more of a clutter piece than a must-have.
If you’re into crafts, wooden spools can still be handy. You can paint or decorate them for DIY projects like mini ornaments or jewelry beads. But for most, they’re just forgotten relics on a shelf.
Retro Beaded Trims
You might have seen retro beaded trims in old craft kits or vintage clothing. They often feature plastic beads or simple tassels, adding a charming but outdated touch.
These trims were popular for decorating costumes and DIY projects. Today, they can feel a bit bulky or cheap compared to modern, sleeker options.
If you find some in your craft stash, they might not fit your style anymore. But they can still be fun to experiment with if you like that vintage vibe.
Glass Marbles for Crafting
You probably remember glass marbles as shiny little treasures from childhood. They were perfect for all kinds of craft projects, from vase fillers to colorful mosaics.
These days, they’ve lost some of their charm in crafting circles. You might find them outdated compared to newer materials that are easier to work with or more versatile.
Still, if you have a stash, marbles can add a nostalgic touch to DIY projects. Just keep in mind they might not be as popular as they once were.
Old-school Metal Stencils
If you’ve ever dug through grandma’s craft box, you might have found some metal stencils. These old-school tools were once popular for painting, journaling, and scrapbooking.
Today, you’ll usually spot plastic or digital versions instead. Metal stencils can feel heavy and tricky to use, making them less handy for casual crafting.
Still, if you want that vintage vibe, metal stencils add a unique touch. But for most, they’re just outdated gear taking up space.
Photo Negative Sleeves
You probably have a box of photo negative sleeves tucked away somewhere. These clear or glassine sleeves used to be essential for storing film negatives safely.
They protect your negatives from dust and scratches, but with digital photos taking over, they’ve mostly become obsolete.
If you still use them, these sleeves can also double as a fun retro craft material. Otherwise, they’re just another piece of old-school gear that hasn’t quite kept up with today’s tech.
Rubber Stamp Sets from the 80s
You might remember those old rubber stamp sets from the 80s, often featuring cute animals, flowers, or simple designs. They were popular for crafting, scrapbooking, and school projects back then.
Today, most of these stamps just sit unused, taking up space. While some vintage sets are collectible, a lot of the rubber stamps have lost their practical value. Unless you’re into retro crafts, they’re mostly junk now.
More from Cultivated Comfort:
- 7 Vintage Home Items From the ’60s That Are Collectors’ Dream Finds
- 7 Vintage Home Goods That Became Collectors’ Gold
- 7 Fast-Food Chains That Changed for the Worse
- 7 Frozen Dinners That Were Better Back in the Day
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
