How to Make a Layered Plywood Clock

This was another idea that just popped in my head that I wanted to try. I am starting to use more plywood for projects in ways that highlight the layers of the plywood as opposed to paint over or cover it up. This is a simple clock using a handful of tools that I had never used in this manner before. Hope you like it.

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Supplies and Tools

Plywood project panels (sized to make whatever size circular clock you want)

Router (and circle jig) or Jigsaw (by hand or with circular jig)

Orbital or Palm Sander (or do it by hand)

Sandpaper

Angle Grinder (cheap one at Harbor Freight)

Flap Sanding Discs

Clock Kit

Hole Saw Bit

Chisels

Drill Bit (sized for clock kit)

Router Bits

I used my router and circle jig to cut my sized clock. You can do this with a jigsaw by hand (if necessary), using any round item to mark your circle (an easy item is the bottom/top of a bucket).

I then used a hole bit to cut a hole in one of the plywood circles (which will primarily be where the clock unit will sit.

Then, glue the plywood circles together and drill the appropriately sized hole in the middle for the clock kit you purchased.

Due to the limited depth of my clock kit, I had to chisel out some of the back of the second plywood circle. Digging some of the out allowed my to properly attached the clock unit.

I used a half round to round over both the face and the back of the unit.

Using the angle grinder and flap disc attachment, have at the face of the plywood clock. Be sure not to sand down where the clock kit itself will be, but be creative so that you see some of the layers of plywood breaking through.

You can mark at least the 3, 6, 9, and 12 on the clock however you like, personally, I marked it off with a divot using the angle grinder.

Then I used my orbital sander to try to even out the face of the unit and try to cut down any sharp points.

Pick a stain for the clock that will help bring out the different grains and layers. Then use a clear coat polyurethane to protect the unit.

It's as easy as it sounds. Find an appropriate picture hanging bracket and install the clock kit through the hole. Then just mount on the wall and enjoy.