by Ann Krier

Created on: February 12, 2009

Myrtlewood clocks are the perfect nature meets retro style home decor accessory and they are also very easy to make. The inspiration for your finished Myrtlewood clock will come from the piece of wood itself.

Myrtlewood grows in Oregon and Northwestern California. Its beauty evolves from the minerals found in the soil in which it grows. As a crafter, you can find slices of the wood in any national craft store.

Other supplies that you will need include the clock mechanism and the hands which indicate the time, a numbering system and batteries. If you wish to include some type of design element in addition to the wood itself, like a brass fish or a bear, purchase that as well. You will need oil based varnish, two or three sponge applicator brushes and some mineral spirits to clean the varnish when you are finished.

You will also need some basic tools. Those include sandpaper, a drill, ruler or scale and a pencil.

Looking at your piece of wood and perhaps holding it up on the wall where it will hang to pick the best side and to choose the orientation for hanging it. Once you have determined the orientation, mark the wrong side with your pencil.

Measure the piece of wood in both directions (up and down, left and right). Mark the exact center with a tiny pencil dot. Hold up the hands from your clock mechanism. Is this where you wish the center of the clock to be or would you prefer that it be off center?

If you are using a large design element, audition it on the piece of wood in several places before you decide where the clock portion will go.

Measure the longest arm in the clock kit to it's center hole. Multiply that number by two (this is the reach of the arm in both directions). Add " to that dimension. This is diameter of the circle or the sweep of the hands. It is also where you will place your numbers. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH ROOM IN EVERY DIRECTION to place your numbers and that they look good before you drill your center hole.

Drill hole.

Apply one coat of varnish. Allow it to cure (dry). Place numbers or tick marks (and any design element you wish to add) on top of first coat. Repeat with additional coats of varnish until the clock achieves the sheen that you desire. Allow to cure between coats.

Install clock mechanism, following the directions in the kit. Add picture hanging hardware of adequate strength to the back side of the clock, hang in place and enjoy.

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