DIY Dotted Wall Clock

It’s the time of year when we make ourselves all sorts of promises to be organized, stay on top of tasks and work in a more focused way. For me, that means the age-old technique of timing. I’ve always worked best when up against a deadline as so many of us do. Knowing that a certain task needs to be done — and done quickly — has a way of snapping me into action without getting sidetracked and checking Instagram quite as much. So instead of waiting for allotted deadlines to get things done, I’m imposing my own smaller and much more achievable timed goals. To keep an eye on the time and make sure I am working within the deadlines (without having to look at my phone) I’ve made this dotted clock to help keep me on track. –Fran

Materials:

• Clock mechanism
• Thick foam or polystyrene (thicker than the main body of the clock mechanism)
• Mount board
• Plate
• Masking tape
• Retractable knife
• Paint brush
• Craft knife
• Black paint
• Multipurpose glue
• Basket cane/reed – You can use your leftovers from this project

Instructions:

 

1. Find a plate or circular object the size you would like your clock face to be and cut your foam piece into shape using this as a template.

2. Place the clock mechanism in the center of the foam circle. This needs to be pretty precise, so measure from opposite sides of the mechanism to the edge of the foam to make sure it is centered, then cut a hole all the way through the foam around the base of the mechanism.

3. Cut the clock face out of the mount board using the same plate again as a template.

4. Place the foam over the mount board then insert the clock mechanism with the front tube pressing against the mount board. Press down firmly to mark the place you’ll need to cut a hole in the mount board and use your craft knife to cut through.

5. Push the mechanism through the hole and bolt into place. You should now be able to slot the mechanism into the foam with a perfect fit.

6. Dip your brush into the paint and dot it around the mount board randomly. Leave this to dry.

 

 

7. Glue the cane around the edge of the clock face letting the edge protrude above the surface. Cut off the excess and use masking tape to keep it in place whilst it’s drying.

8. Once the cane is secure remove the tape and press the clock hands into the mechanism.

Now there’s nothing left to do but get back to work and start getting things done.