DIY Farmhouse Wood Spool Clock

There's a growing trend of using large clocks as statement pieces. Whether an oversized clock is hung above a couch, propped on an entryway table, or used on a gallery wall... I love the look!  

And if you think about how long clocks have been used in homes, they aren't just a trend, but are timeless. I think what gives clock faces an updated, modern farmhouse feel is the big size and rustic, distressed finish.

I've been inspired by some of the DIY pallet clocks I've been seeing, and have been wanting to make one for awhile now. So when I came across an old wire spool reel, I knew just what I was going to do!

The reel was in great, weathered-grey condition...

Though I really liked the aged color of the wood, I wanted the numbers to pop. And, against our white walls, the wood looked darker than pictured... a little too bland.

So, I painted the clock, using a dry brush technique where you keep the tip of your paintbrush mostly dry - without excess paint. If I applied too much paint in one area, I quickly used my dry brush to spread the paint.

It was getting closer to the color I wanted. But, my bright white paint against the weathered wood needed a little "aged" white added in. 

I found an old can of creamy white paint and dry brushed it on randomly - but sort of balanced - if that makes sense! :)

Next, I printed out the numbers on card stock paper. You can use whichever font you like. I chose Optima in font size 375 for this project.

I cut out the numbers and traced them onto the clock face using pencil. I didn't do any precise measuring for the placement of the numbers, but it helps to do 12, 3, 6 and 9 first! Once I had traced the outline of the numbers, I carefully painted them in using black craft paint. Once dry, I gave the numbers a good sanding to add some of that charming aged appearance.

For now, we have the clock propped up on our vintage piano. (You might remember when I painted our piano here.) I like how the clock is visible from our entryway, as well as the living room.

 I went back and painted the edges of the reel for a more finished look...

I know it's possible to add the clock mechanics and hands,

 but I'm happy with our clock face as art...

For me, this was a really fun and relaxing project 

(except for moving the clock face - it is heavy!).

Have you made a pallet or spool clock? 

If not, do you think you'll try one? 

I'd love to hear!

Thank you for visiting! It means so much to me.

Xo

Sharing with:

Savvy Southern Style

The Scoop