Clock Mechanism Installation Tutorial
Creating your own wooden clock is a great way to add a personal touch to your home décor — and it’s a project that woodworkers of any skill level can enjoy. In this video, we walk through how to build a simple DIY clock using a piece of wood and a WoodRiver clock movement kit. Even if you’ve never made a clock before, the process is straightforward once you understand which parts you need and how they fit together.
This project works with just about any wood you have on hand. Whether you choose a live-edge slab, a CNC-carved design, a round blank, or a simple board with clean edges, the creativity is completely up to you. One of the great things about wooden clocks is that the woodworking can be as simple or as detailed as you want — the hardware installation stays the same, regardless of the style you choose.
The key step is selecting the right clock movement for the thickness of your clock face. Once the mechanism is fitted through the center hole, you can attach the hour, minute, and second hands, insert a battery, and you’re ready to set the time. It’s a quick build that looks impressive and makes a meaningful handmade gift.
If you’re just getting into woodworking, this is a great project to build confidence with measuring, drilling, layout, and finishing. And if you’re more experienced, it’s a fun way to use offcuts, showcase special grain, or experiment with shape and design.
Watch the full video to follow the process step-by-step, and explore additional hardware styles, hand shapes, and movement options online or at your local Woodcraft store so you can create a clock that reflects your own personal style.
If you have used your woodworking skills to make your own clock, share it with us on social media. We love to see the woodworking projects that you create!