Tutorial: CD Clock

As promised, here's a run-down on the clock-making project:

Materials needed:

• CD (preferably one you're up-cycling)
• Scrapbook paper of  your choice
• Sandpaper
• Decoupage medium (I used Royal Coat; others like Mod Podge)
• Washer (more on this below)
• Adhesive that will glue metal to plastic (I used E6000)
• Clock works (available at craft stores - look by the unfinished wood)
• Stamps and inks, if you want to add more to your paper
• Computer and printer, if needed (more on this below)

Before we start actually making the clock, it's necessary to do some preliminary layout with your paper of choice:

If you want to print a quote on it like I did, then play around with the font and spacing until you get it how you like it.  I used the high-tech method of printing it off on regular printer paper ("fast draft" option to save ink), then held it up to the light with the CD behind it to see where everything would be on the finished project.  Keep in mind that it needs to stay contained within a 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" area, and that some of the edges will be cut off because the CD is round - plan accordingly.  After you get it how you'd like, send your actual scrapbook paper through on the regular print option to finish this step:

Alternately, you could stamp a quote or sentiment.  In this instance, you could just trace the outline of the CD onto scrap paper and play around with that until you get it to your liking.  This is also what you will do if you're stamping additional designs.

You also need to prep the CD.  First, "scuff sand" the CD with the sandpaper to give it "tooth", so the paper will adhere properly.  Otherwise, you might be able to peel the whole thing right off, and then where will you be?  Also, you'll need to glue a washer to the back of the CD.  The center hole on the CD is larger than the post on the clock works, so find a washer with an opening the appropriate size and glue it on (make sure it's centered).  I used E600, but you can use whatever works for you.  Here are pictures of these two steps:

Now that you have your paper and CD prepped, you're ready to move on.  Spread an even coat of decoupage medium onto the face of the CD, being especially careful to ensure that there is good coverage around the outer and inner edges, so they don't lift up when you add the clockworks or do the next step.  Smooth the paper on, making sure that it's centered properly.  Let the glue dry before moving on.

To get a nice, smooth edge all the way around, first do a rough cut to trim excess paper away, then use the sandpaper to file away the rest:

You'll also need to carefully cut away the paper covering the center hole.  I used a craft knife.

I wanted more of a finished outside edge, so I used a stubble tool and Black Soot Distress Ink to add some ink around the edges.  It's up to you if you want to do this or not. 

Now just put together the clock!  My clockworks didn't come with any instructions, but I did track down this diagram online:

And there you have it!

You can hang your clock on the wall with the built-in hanger on the clock movement, or set it on a small easel, or whatever floats your boat!  Have fun, and please send me a link if you decide to give it a try!

Comments

[Carrie]

Man, you're on a great project idea roll! I have a million CDs that for whatever reason I have been keeping - just waiting or an idea to use them. Bingo!! Thanks!!