Reviving Vintage Design: The Story of Alexander Tennis Rackets

At FunktUpcycle, we believe that every object tells a story—especially the ones that are no longer in production. One of our favorite finds is the Alexander tennis racket, a true piece of Aussie sporting heritage.

The Legacy of Alexander Tennis Rackets

Long before carbon fiber frames and synthetic strings ruled the courts, tennis was a game of timber, sweat, and style. If you played in Australia from the 1930s to the 1970s, chances are you swung an Alexander racket. These rackets were made in Australia, primarily crafted in Tasmania. They became a go-to choice for players all over the country.

Crafted from quality hardwoods such as ash and maple, these rackets were more than just sports gear. They were beauty in design, often showcasing sleek lacquer finishes, rich timber grains, and finely wrapped grips. They represented an era of local craftsmanship, where sports equipment was made with precision, not mass production.

The Artisanship Behind the Rackets

The Alexander brand stood for quality and reliability. It earned a cherished place in garages, sheds, and sports clubs across Australia. Each racket was a testament to the artisanship of its time.

These rackets were designed to enhance performance while also being visually appealing. Their handcrafted nature allowed individual characters to emerge, making each racket unique. From the choice of wood to the design of the grip, no detail was overlooked.

From Forgotten to FunktUp

Fast forward to today, many of those once-loved rackets now gather dust in storage—or worse, face the fate of landfill. That’s where FunktUpcycle steps in. We have a passion for reviving these forgotten treasures.

When we find an Alexander racket, we know we’ve discovered something special. These rackets are more than just materials for DIY projects—they become the heart of upcycled art. We transform them into statement mirrors, sculptural pieces, or decor that sparks conversation.

Handcrafted with Care

Each piece is carefully handcrafted, preserving the original markings and character of the racket. Whether it’s a chipped logo or a worn grip, those imperfections tell a story. We take pride in honoring that history, offering a new life while respecting the past.

Our commitment is to ensure that each upcycled design reflects the unique identity of the original racket. Every piece created is a celebration of functionality and artistry.

Why We Love Working with Vintage Aussie Brands

There’s something deeply satisfying about saving a product that was designed to last, especially when it carries such strong local roots. At FunktUpcycle, we don’t just see an old racket. We see a moment in history, a piece of nostalgia, and an opportunity to champion circular creativity.

By upcycling vintage Alexander rackets, we’re not only reducing waste; we’re showcasing what sustainable design can look like. It is a blend of purpose and creativity that inspires us. We encourage everyone to rethink their discarded items and explore how they can be transformed.

The Importance of Sustainability

Sustainability is not just a trend; it's a necessity. As we face environmental challenges, finding new uses for vintage items helps reduce waste. Upcycling is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. Every Alexander racket repurposed is a small victory for our planet.

Moreover, this journey promotes awareness about the value of preserving craftsmanship. By championing brands like Alexander, we pay homage to an era where quality triumphed over quantity.

Got One at Home?

If you have an Alexander racket tucked away in your shed or garage, don’t throw it out—funk it up! We invite you to drop us a message or bring it along to one of our DIY Racket Mirror Workshops. Let’s give it a new story together.

From serve to statement piece, Alexander tennis rackets remind us that great design never goes out of style—it just finds new ways to shine.

— Team FunktUpcycle