6 Creative Typewriter Uses
I woke up today thinking I have not posted in a while. People often wonder and ask me what else can I use a typewriter for except the obvious - writing a novel. Well, here is 6 ways you can use your typewriter.
Hope this inspires you to dust off your typewriter, start writing and get creative.
1. Write Poems
You don't need permission or practice to get writing, just curiosity. Pick a topic that inspires you. The first rule of writing poetry: there are no fixed rules. Let yourself explore freely. Poetry isn’t about getting it “right” — it’s about expressing something true, even if it’s messy.
Prompt:
Pick a random object near you — a mug, shoe, lamp, book, etc.
Now, imagine it has a secret it’s never told anyone.
🔹 Step-by-Step:
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Choose the object. (Look around. Grab whatever catches your eye.)
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Give it a voice. Pretend it can talk. What does it want to say?
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Write a short poem (4–8 lines) where the object confesses something surprising, sad, funny, or magical.
📝 Example:
I’m the cracked mug behind the cupboard door,
Still warm with her last goodbye.
I held the tea she didn’t finish,
And the whisper she didn’t say.
Photo credits @Melrosepoetrybureau
2. Make Art
You don't need to be as good as James Cook (a UK-based artist who uses art as a tool) although it helps to have somewhat of imagination and creative vision. But this is definitely one use of typewriters that gets your brain going. Try "sketching" a few people made only of X's and Y's.
Photo credits @James Cook
3. Get creative with Journaling
Why not type a note and add it to your journal? You can find all kinds of ways to get creative with your journal.
4. Send Snail Mail
Let's face it - who doesn't love receiving a letter in the mailbox? (Unless it's from the tax authorities but I have a feeling they no longer use typewriters.)
Don't have a friend to send a letter to? Write a letter to your future self or join a pen pal finding website such as globalpenfriends.com
P.S. Above letter is the snail mail reply I received from one of my favorite screen persons Tom Hanks. (look at that cool stamp of my favourite typewriter)
5. Make a Shopping List/To Do list/Bucket list
Photo credits @yyctypewriter
The act of typing out your needs adds a sense of purpose to any to do list. Make mundane tasks feel special and fun rather than a chore!
6. Host a typewriter party
Photo credits @myoldtypewriter.com
Set up several machines and let your family and friends unleash their creativity. From collaborative poems to quirky short stories, it’s a fun way to bond over the art of writing. Add some drinks and food to that - you got yourself a party!