Upcycled Spool Clock

Brianna
by Brianna
12 Materials
$50
2 Hours
Medium
The Step by Step Process is as follows:

STEP 1 : Acquire a spool
As mentioned above, you can find these for FREE at many different locations. Try asking your local hardware store, home improvement store, commercial electrician or any other industrial business in your area. I recommend the 36″ spools for best results.

STEP 2: Tools and supplies
Gather everything you will need to complete this project. You may also need a measuring tape and a screwdriver/power drill.

STEP 3: Clean your spool
Clean both the front and back of the spool of any mud, dust, dirt, and grime that has collected on it over the years. You can even take a hose or pressure washer to it if it is really needing a good cleaning. The only issue in doing so, is waiting for it to dry before continuing with the clock making process (which can take a day or two). If you have a newer spool, and want to make your spool look more distressed, I suggest taking a chain or hammer to it to give it more dents and scratches to add more character. This can be done during the this step.

STEP 4: Stain
Once your spool is clean, put on some rubber gloves and grab your stain (or paint)! This is the fun part because this is where you get to decide how you want your clock to look! You can stain each board a different color, do it all in a natural barn wood stain, or even paint it all black or white. What ever your style is, this is where you get to bring it to life!
Make sure to stain/paint all the nooks and crannies. Also, note that I only stain the front and sides. I do not stain the back of the clock. This will save you time and money!

STEP 5 : Let Dry
If the weather permits, keep your stained spool outside so that it can dry more efficiently. The stain smell is also almost non existent when everything is done outside. If this isn’t possible, make sure it is laying down in a save designated space free from any dust, dirt, or scratches. The drying process can take up to two days depending on what type of stain or paint you used.

STEP 6: Place your stencils
Finding proper number placement always start with the 12, then from there you place the 6, then the 3, and then the 9 O clock.
You can either stop here or add all the rest. If you want to add the rest of the numbers, move on to 1 and 7. Next will be 11 and 5 and then lastly you will have 2 O clock and 8 O clock making sure each corresponding number lines up correctly.
Tape edges of stencils to ensure crisp lines and no mess ups!
If you are wondering where you can get stencils for this project – please contact me! I am more than happy to make them for you.

STEP 7: Paint and let dry
I prefer using spray paint for this process. Spray paint goes on light, even, and easy. But, if you have paint on hand that you would like to use, I highly recommend using a foam paint brush or even a foam makeup applicator to paint over your stencil. Do so in a dabbing fashion instead of the usual strokes. This will ensure you get nice straight crisp lines when you peal up your stencils.

STEP 8: Remove the stencils
After the paint is done drying (a couple of hours), you can then tear of the stencils!
It isn’t necessary, but if you wanted to clear finish or polyurethane your clock, this is where you would do so. I don’t put a finishing coat on the ones I make, but it can definitely be something you can do if you feel it’s necessary.

STEP 9 : Attach your clock kit
This is the most important part because this is obviously what makes your clock functional! FYI: You want to make sure when you order your clock hands that the shaft is long enough to go through the center of your spool and that the clock hands are large enough for your clock!
The one I have listed above is a 24″ hand with a 11/16th long shaft.

STEP 10: Attach your hardware
The final step!
Make sure you have hardware that is durable enough to hold your spool! Spool tops vary in weigh, so take a estimate as to how much yours weighs and get the proper hooks needed. You may need to attach 2 D hooks and add a wire.

Or if you prefer not to hang it up, you can lean in up against the wall on a display table or dresser. Just make sure it is positioned securely.

There you have it! I hope you enjoy making your very own signature piece for your home. Please let me know how yours turn out and if you have any questions regarding this process below in the comments! Or check out the Prairie Pine Designs blog for more inspiration at www.prairiepinedesigns.com.
Happy DIYing!
Suggested materials:
  • A wooden spool (FREE)   (Facebook Swap & Shop Site)
  • Orbital Sander   (Home Depot)
  • Sand Paper (80 & 120 grit)   (Amazon)
See all materials
Brianna
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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