If you’re replacing trampoline springs every three to five years as recommended, you might have a collection of them in your garage. Alternatively, if your children have outgrown their trampoline, it might be sitting unused and rusting in your backyard. Taking apart an old trampoline is a task in itself, and figuring out what to do with all the parts can be challenging. While many creative ideas involve repurposing the trampoline frame into things like garden fences or moon gates, the springs also offer numerous possibilities. They can be used to add tension to fence and trellis wires, close a garden gate automatically, or even craft vases for artificial flowers.
Trampolines usually come with between 66 springs (for a 6-foot diameter trampoline) to 128 springs (for trampolines 15 feet or larger), made from steel, galvanized steel, and zinc or nickel-plated steel. An average family trampoline, capable of supporting up to 350 pounds at a time, typically has 8-inch springs made of 2.7 mm (0.1 inch) wires. Depending on your needs, you can find springs that are shorter and thinner or longer and thicker. If they’re still in good condition, it would be wasteful to throw away something so durable. Instead, consider transforming them into hooks for hanging planters, components in DIY machinery, or, for skilled welders, unique scrap metal art.
Use trampoline springs to hang things in your home and garden
After visiting the garden center, you might have a collection of trailing plants perfect for hanging baskets. Use trampoline springs to hang them in your home, from the eaves of your balcony or trellis, under a garden arch, or from tree branches. The hooks on the springs can be used to create longer chains. Additionally, you could use them to hang string lights, lanterns, or farmhouse-style porch signs. Connect multiple trampoline springs to create netting that supports flowering climbers or berry vines.
Replace worn coil springs in chairs and other furniture with trampoline springs
Some furniture pieces, especially those with moving parts, contain springs. For example, tight coil springs are often used in recliner chairs for the footrests. Trampoline springs in good condition can serve as substitutes if a spring needs replacement. This is an ideal solution for experienced DIYers or furniture restorers, especially for discontinued furniture where original parts are unavailable. However, if possible, contacting the manufacturer for replacement springs made for the specific furniture model is recommended.
Add tension to trellis wires with repurposed trampoline springs
Tension wire trellises are commonly used in vineyards for grape-growing, where coil springs near the poles keep the wires tight, supporting the vines and enhancing their exposure to sunlight and airflow. Home gardeners can adopt this technique to create durable wire trellises using trampoline springs. This method is most effective for long trellises, as maintaining tension on short wires can be challenging.
Transform trampoline springs into an array of floral garden art
For those skilled with a welder, trampoline springs can be crafted into various nature-themed garden art pieces. Create lawn ornaments by shaping petals from curved springs, spray-painting them in vibrant colors, and welding them to a rebar stalk. These blooms can also be attached to a wooden board for a wall display. Individual springs can make excellent cattail flower heads when threaded onto thick metal rods. Even if a spring isn’t in perfect condition, its worn appearance can add a rustic charm to your creation.
Secure the step on your home on wheels with a trampoline spring or two
Unstable steps are a common issue for RV and van users. These steps often float above the ground, attached only to the frame, making them inherently unstable. While stabilizers are available for purchase, trampoline springs can serve as an economical alternative. Use one or more springs, as needed, to brace the steps securely.
Repurpose a trampoline spring into an automatic gate or door closure
If you have pets in your yard, a garden to protect, or simply dislike having to close gates or doors manually, trampoline springs offer a convenient solution. Attach a trampoline spring across the hinge-side of a gate or door using sturdy wire or Atibin Heavy Steel Wall Eye Plates for a neater finish. The spring will apply tension to the hinge, ensuring the gate or door closes immediately after you pass through.
Use trampoline springs when building frames for coops or greenhouses
While many people upcycle trampoline frames into greenhouses, chicken coops, and polytunnels, the springs are often discarded. However, they can be used to securely latch a coop entrance gate or to hold the frame together. Springs can also be connected to form chains that fill gaps between roof beams in a polytunnel, providing better support for the plastic cover.
Craft a trampoline spring vase for dried or faux flowers
Remove the hooks from a trampoline spring using wire or bolt cutters. Attach a spring end plate or a large washer to each end. Paint the spring in your preferred color and glue a coil of natural twine to the top plate or washer. Once the paint is dry, fill your new vase with dried or faux flowers. These sturdy bases can also double as candle holders.
Use a trampoline spring as a component in DIY machinery
Many everyday machines and workshop tools require springs for regulating movements. If your trampoline springs are in excellent condition, they can be repurposed for use in DIY projects like spring hammers, Da Vinci hammers for blacksmithing, 20-ton presses, and tire chain tensioners. Note that these projects can be complex, so they are best suited for those with experience in DIY machinery construction.
Turn old trampoline springs into animal sculptures for indoors or out
For a creative touch in your garden, craft nature-inspired sculptures using trampoline springs. If you live on a farm, you can use the springs to create wool or fur on sheep or llama statues. Trampoline springs can also be used for crafting the legs of a metal art owl or the body of a scorpion from reclaimed steel.
Tension a wire fence with trampoline springs
Similar to the wire trellis method, trampoline springs can be used to tension a wire fence, defining property borders or keeping livestock out of your vegetable garden. While they aren’t custom-made for this purpose, trampoline springs should work well enough for residential or semi-rural backyards. Ensure that only trampoline springs in excellent condition are used for safety reasons.
Substitute trampoline springs for suspension springs in a porch swing setup
Some porch swings include suspension springs to soften the swing and reduce jolts. When DIYing a porch swing, trampoline springs can be used for this purpose. Inspect the springs for any flaws or corrosion and discard or recycle if necessary. You can also test the spring’s load-bearing capacity at home with minimal tools.
Tension a tarp or shade sail using trampoline springs
Whether you’re hanging a shade sail or covering a shed frame with a tarp, it’s important to keep the material taut to prevent water collection and flapping. Attach a trampoline spring to a rope or wire between the awning corner and the support pole or frame. Pull the cord tight, allowing the spring to expand and provide the necessary tension while maintaining some flexibility.
