What Is the Process of Making Vinyl Records?

If you are anything like me, you have a collection of vinyl records that you love and cherish. I am sure you have any questions about how the record is made and what goes into making it.

The first thing to know is that there are two types of vinyl records: analog and digital. Analog records use an actual needle to play back music on a spinning disc. Digital records use a laser beam to read information off the disc. Both methods produce high-quality sound.

The second thing to know is that vinyl records are created in a process called pressing. This involves placing thousands of tiny plastic discs onto a molding plate. Then, a machine presses the discs together so they stick to each other. They are finally separated by cutting.

How are vinyl records made?

Now let’s take a look at some of the steps involved in creating a vinyl record.

1. Molding Plate

First, a molding plate is designed. It has grooves that will hold the vinyl discs when pressed together. The grooves also determine where the labels go.

2. Placing Discs On Molds

Once the molding plate is complete, the discs are placed on top of the molds. They are then covered with a protective film.

3. Pressing

Next, the molding plate is put under pressure by a press. As the press squeezes the discs together, the protective film seals them together.

4. Cutting

Finally, the discs are cut away from the molding plate. A cutting tool cuts through the thin plastic layer between the discs.

5. Labels

After the discs are cut away, the label is applied. Album covers usually have the title of the song and the name of the artist.

6. Stamping

Stamping machines apply raised patterns to the disc after the label has been applied, helping to keep the disc clean and prevent dust from sticking to it.

7. Coating

In order to prevent scratches on the disc surface, a coating is applied.

8. Curing

Finally, the record is cured for 24 hours. During this time, the adhesive used to bond the label to the disc dries out. Once the adhesive is dry, the record can be played.

9. Packaging

Vinyl records are packaged in sleeves or jewel cases. These containers help keep the record safe during shipping and storage.

Check out our video series if you’d like to learn more about the making of vinyl records.

Conclusion

Making vinyl records is a complex process. Each step contributes to achieving a high-quality end product. We hope you enjoyed reading this lesson!