How to Make a Decoupage Clock
Decoupage is the art or craft of decorating surfaces with paper cutouts and then coating with layers of finish, such as lacquer or varnish. This technique can be used to add a decorative look to many different types of surfaces and objects. Decoupaging with images cut out from magazines, drawings, books and stationery can turn a homemade clock into a functional part of your room's wall decor. Clock mechanism kits can be purchased in any craft supply store inexpensively, to complete your homemade clock and make it work.
Lay a ruler across the plastic plate to draw lines down the center, both vertically and horizontally, tracing along the ruler with a permanent marker. This should give you a "plus sign" or cross shape across the plate.
Drill a hole through the plate at the very center, where the two lines intersect. Use a power drill with a 1/4-inch bit or a rotary tool with a multipurpose cutting bit.
Sand the face of the plate with fine grit sandpaper or a rotary tool with a fine-grit sanding disc to prepare it for paint.
Paint the face of the plate with white latex paint. Allow it to dry according to the paint label instructions and then, paint a second coat. Allow the second coat to dry completely, ideally overnight.
Cut images from magazines, books or other materials and apply white glue to the back of each image. Press the images onto the front of the plate and let the glue dry for 30 minutes.
Brush a thin, even layer of decoupage medium over the entire plate, including the images. Allow this first layer to dry for 20 minutes and repeat the process three or four times, allowing the glue to dry after each coat .
Place adhesive number decals on the plate like a clock, with 12 at the top and 6 on the bottom. Use any type of numbers you like; such as decorative numerals, roman numerals or even spelled-out numbers.
Attach the clock mechanism according to the kit instructions, placing the hands on the front of the plate and the battery box at the back.
- Most craft shops sell decoupage supplies, including images specifically made for the craft.
Ashley Kurz, a full-time professional writer since 2009, publishes on various informational websites. An expert in the craft field specializing in craft-related topics, Kurz has taught arts and crafts for group therapy sessions.