Create-Your-Own Clocks

August 1, 2011


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    Day after day, year after year, clocks help us keep our lives on track. But did you know they’re also easy to make? Simply start by purchasing clock mechanics at a craft store, and follow the directions for use. Then, with our 7 ideas, turn ordinary items into functional décor.

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Embroidery Hoop Clock

With an embroidery hoop, stretch and showcase a stylishly patterned fabric. For strength, back the fabric with polystyrene that will support the clockwork. Follow our DIY screen-printing instructions to brush on a design like this birdhouse, then in the center of the hoop, attach the clock’s mechanics.

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Clock Full of Character

Instead of tables littered with books at your next garage sale, turn your bound treasures into distinguished clocks. To fit the mechanics, carefully carve out a block of the book’s pages with a craft knife. Once completed, try featuring your creation as a clever bookend.

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Time Zone Ticker

Find a globe at a thrift store or online, and using a craft knife, cut along its seam to separate its two halves. Add the clock mechanics, and consider setting each half to a different time zone. For a fun accent, label the name of a location that represents each clock’s time on the wall above.

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Serve Up a Clock

Finally, a purpose for the last few surviving plates of old dishware sets! Get our instructions for turning them into clocks, and if you make a few extra, follow our directions to hang them as an arrangement. If mismatched, don’t worry. Eclectic combos add extra charm.

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Time for Memories

Creatively showcase your special memories by displaying framed photos or shadow boxes around the hands of a clock on a wall. It’s a creative way to turn noon into “last year’s summer vacation” and midnight into “the kids’ first day of school.”

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Learn to Tell Time Chalkboard

Purchase a premade chalkboard from an office supply store, or use chalkboard paint to turn a piece of wood into a chalk-friendly surface. Drill a hole in the center, add your clock’s mechanics, then teach kids to tell time by having them draw in the numbers.

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Corkboard Clock

Cut a sheet of cork to the shape of your choice, then consider adding a layer of fabric or paint before plugging in the clock’s mechanics. To make your clock functional, pin our downloadable numbers around the board, or use notes, photos and mementos as markers.

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Quick Tip

Don’t let a little dirt and dust soil the look of your fabulously unique clock! Since Swiffer Dusters® Extender extends up to three feet, use it to trap and lock hard-to-reach dust from your timekeeper’s grooves and crevices.

Now that you know how to create your own clock, what will you transform into a stylish, new ticker? Let us know in the comment section below.

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