Cuckoo Clock


As seen in
The Wave magazine
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Got a little time on your hands? Make a cool clock with a funky number arrangement that still tells time.
This clock gets its modern look from the seemingly haphazard number placement. But as long as each number is along the proper axis, the clock’s hands will point to the right time. To set off the silver-leafed numbers, skip the craft paint and drive yourself to the auto parts store for metallic car paint. After all, this ain’t your grandfather’s clock!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
  • Clock kit (for 3/8-inch thick surface)
  • AA battery
  • Set of silver clock hands
  • Wooden square, 12 inches by 12 inches (¼-inch thick)
  • Wooden craft numbers, 1½ inch tall
  • Bright Aqua Metallic automotive spray paint
  • Black spray paint
  • Silver leaf
  • Metal Leaf Adhesive Size (gold leaf glue)
  • Small paintbrush
  • Drill
  • Drill bit, 5/16 inch
  • Piece of string, 8 inches long
  • Hot glue gun
  • Hot glue sticks

Step One
Mark the center of the wooden square and drill a hole 5/16 of an inch in diameter. Spray paint the surface and sides of the square with the automotive spray paint.

Step Two
Spray paint the front and sides of the wooden numbers black and let dry. Paint the fronts of the numbers with the Metal Leaf Adhesive and apply the silver leaf according to the directions on the package.

Step Three
To determine where the numbers go, place a wristwatch in the center of the wooden square. Create a guideline by stretching a string from the center of the watch straight up through the number 12 on the watch and out to the edge of the wooden square. Hot glue the wooden number 12 anywhere along this guideline. Repeat for each number.

Step Four
To attach the clock mechanism, start by removing the components from the shaft. Lay them out in the order you removed them. Place the rubber cushion on the shaft first, then insert the shaft through the hole in the wooden square. Place the small brass washer on the shaft followed by the hex nut. Screw the hex nut onto the shaft holding the back of the clock mechanism. Attach the silver hour hand first and press lightly. Next attach the minute hand. Lightly screw the minute nut in place then top the shaft with the second hand. Add the battery and set the time with the dial on the back of the clock mechanism.

Bright Idea
The silver leaf will naturally oxidize and form a pretty patina. But if you prefer a bright and shiny look, seal the numbers with spray sealant.
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