Images via pr sync

Budget Tip of the Day: Photo Frame Clock

Instead of a traditional photo wall, use your framed photos to create a stunning wall clock. This picture display idea can can be done with both a large and small wall space. You’ll just need to adjust your picture sizes accordingly. If you want a working, functional clock you will need to buy a clock kit. Here is a link to a good one that is capable of holding extra-long clock hands, which is perfect for a large wall space. They are quite easy to put together, but you will need a small piece of wood to attach it to, as you can’t mount this directly into the wall. Just paint the wood piece to match your decor, and install the clock kit to it.

Now it’s time to organize your photos. Use 4 of the same size frames for the 12, 3, 6, & 9 positions. Use the same size frames in a smaller size for the rest of the numbers. Lay your pictures out on the floor first to figure out the placement and diameter of the circle. Based on your measurements, mark on the wall where the center of your clock will be. Tape or tie a long string to a pencil and tie the other end around a tack or nail pushed into the center of the wall. Figure out the circumference you want the circle and lightly draw a perfect circle on the wall with the pencil. Once you’ve got your circle drawn, hang your clock movement hands. Then hang your pictures. Start with the 12, 3, 6, & 9 pictures first and then fill in the 8 smaller sized pictures. It’s not really that hard, but it takes a little time to make sure everything is straight and symmetrical. So just be patient. Use a level or straight edge to make sure things line up just right and enlist a friend to help you as well.

You can also do this with faux clock hands painted onto the wall or cut out of wood. Although it won’t be a working clock, it will still be a wonderful art piece. You could also add a rub-on wall decal with a fun saying or your family name below the hands for an extra personal touch. Remember to hit the thrift store if you don’t have enough frames. There are always plenty to choose from. Just use a little spray paint to make them all match.

The sky’s the limit with wall clocks. You can use anything in place of the photos for the numbers. How about cooking utensils/gadgets for a kitchen clock or 12 smaller clocks for numerals. Use your creativity to make your own unique clock with anything you’ve already got lying around your house. And please send in pictures if you do!