Introduction: Custom Clock With Photo Hands

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Some people are clock watchers. Now everyone can be the clock.

Other projects customize the face of the clock. This one customizes the hands of the clock.

It looks expensive, but is less than $5 dollars, and about 30 minutes per clock. Perfect for Christmas Gifts, birthday gifts, end of school year gifts or any other time.

Kids, especially those learning to tell time, always get excited about this project.



Step 1: Gather Materials

9 inch clock (usually less than $5)
screw driver
scissors
glue
clock battery

Digital camera and basic editing skills assumed.

Step 2: Step 1 - Take Pictures of Subject(s)

Getting the right pose is important.
You want to be sure to get the whole person from feet to finger tip included in the picture straight on.

If you have a cooperative subject, the ideal pose is with their right hand next to their ear, finger extended high above their head. Empty hands at their side. Getting the right light is more important than the background since the extra space will be cut out.

If you are surprising someone, then you have to cajole them a bit. My story line then is usually along "pride" shots, and asking the person to pose as "we're #1." Try to make there there isn't too much separation between the arm and the head.

Clothing is also important. Not all clothing "cuts" in half easily. Jeans and pajamas are usually easiest.

Edit the final picture so it fills a regular 4 x 6 print.


Step 3: Step 2 - Disassemble Clock

Flip clock over onto soft surface. Keep from scratching.
Push in tabs to separate base from cover.
Flip over again and pull off the seconds hand.

Step 4: Glue Picture to Hands of Clock

Trim picture along edges.

Decide where to cut picture in half. Hopefully this is also the waist of the picture.

Add glue to hands of clock. Take care not to let any slide down hole in center.

Make every effort not to crease picture. Any curve might make it difficult for one hand to "sweep" past the other.

Wait until glue is dry.

Step 5: Reassemble and Enjoy

Put the face back onto the base.
I recommend working the bottom side, so that if there is a scratch it is less visible. Push the top tab in completely, then flex the bottom tab in, using the screwdriver as needed.

Add battery. (Test for a day if time allows.)
Be sure to autograph your gift.

Put back in box for safe transport. The box will also allow it to be wrapped as a Christmas gift, Birthday gift, or special day gift.

Optional: Adding a custom background (beach, forest, car, etc.) is almost a no brainer. Pull all the hands off. Slip out the old paper background and use it as a template for your new pattern. Glue down the new picture.

Good luck on your own project. Feel free to comment and vote.

Homemade Holidays Contest

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Homemade Holidays Contest