AC/DC Clock
How to make an easy and cheap clock at home!
Getting Inspired
As an AC/DC fan I have a big wall poster. For ages I had been thinking about making my own clock but I didn´t find something cool to do... until I looked at the wall.
A new idea had appeared!
Materials Needed
- White glue.
- Coping saw.
- Sand papers.
- 5mm plywood panel.
- Quartz clock with hands.
- Red and black spray paint.
- Inkjet with white and photographic paper sheets.
Printing the Model
- Choose a base image for your clock. In my case, I´m using the Black Ice album Angus Young silhouette.
- Resize the image as you wish and print it on a white paper sheet . This model has a 20cm diameter
Tip: Look for easy-to-cut images. Inner gaps may be difficult to remove!
- Cut the prints trying to keep as many thick surfaces as possible, otherwise the pieces might break down while using the saw.
- Fix the prints to the wood panel using cellophane tape. With a pencil draw the contour of the pieces on it.
Tip: Notice that the guitar has two strange extensions on the neck. They offer extra support for the word D.
Cutting the Pieces
- Remove the papers from the plywood and cut the pieces with a coping saw. Follow the pencil lines you have done previously.
Tip: Empty the inner holes first. Later will be difficult!
Adding the Mechanism
Cheap clock mechanisms can be easily found on Internet. I bought a Quartz clock with hands on eBay for 1€!
Okay. They are not very reliable and the battery doesn´t last long but for simple DIY projects are perfect.
This model comes with a washer and nut. Not complex linkers or glue are needed, just drill the piece where you want to fit the clock´s hands.
Sanding and Painting
- After cutting and drilling the pieces some splinters may have appeared.
- Remove them using sand paper, scrub the surface till it is smooth and uniform.
- The pieces are now ready. Put them on a plastic surface and apply the spray paint.
Don´t forget cleaning the dust with cloths before painting!
Tip: For high quality results, primer should be applied before painting.
Creating the Background
Without a background you can see the wall behind the clock and the mechanisms. It doesn´t look cool.
We can improve our model adding a printed image on photographic paper. Flames seem appropriate for a rock band.
- Adjust the sheet shape to the circle´s contour. Cut it few millimetres smaller than the circle itself.
- While in position. Add white glue on the paper edges and spread it until it reaches the wooden parts.
Everything in Its Right Place
- Glue the words carefully.
- Attach the mechanism to the base. Add some glue on the lightning and fix it too.
- Install the washer and tighten the nut. Finally, put the hands in their positions.
Our custom-made clock is now finished!