Introduction
In this post, we help you create the Vinyl Beats: Time to Rock Around the Clock Laser Cutting Project.
Make a stunning wall clock that celebrates the timeless connection between music and time. This unique design features silhouettes of musicians in action, captured around the edges of the record, making it a perfect gift for music lovers and vintage enthusiasts alike. The project is easy to assemble, with downloadable design files and clear instructions. Whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, this clock will hit the right note.
The Vinyl Beats: Time to Rock Around the Clock laser cutting project is a wall clock.
Suitable as a gift for all ages.
The project uses acrylic .
It is an an intermediate project, and I estimate the project can be completed in 2 hours. However, your completion time will depend on the laser cutter, the dimensions of the project and your skill level. If you think my time estimates need adjustment, please feel free to let me know via a comment below.
The free design can be downloaded here. (please notify me if the link is down)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Materials
Acrylic: Choose the acrylic colours and apply a protective film if necessary. (I decided to use MDF with spray paint as the background to save money.)
- Clock mechanism: Purchase the appropriate clock mechanism and hand colour. Ensure your clock mechanism has a sufficiently long shaft to allow the shaft to pass through the materials.
Record label: You can use the record label in the design file or source your own.
2. Prepare the Design File
- Download the design file from the source link provided on the project page.
- Unzip the file to access the SVG.
- Load the SVG into your laser cutting software.
- Record label: Resize the record label to suit the clock and print it on a colour printer.
3. Set Up the Laser Cutter
- Adjust the design size to fit your chosen material dimensions.
- Ensure the middle hole is sufficiently large to fit the clock mechanism.
- If you don't want the record groves, remove them from the design.
- Set the appropriate laser parameters:
- Cut: Specify power and speed for clean cuts.
- Score: Specify power and speed to ensure the record groves are visible.
- For the material-specific settings, refer to your laser cutter’s guidelines.
4. Use the Laser Cutter
- Place your material on the laser bed.
- Run the cutting and scoring process.
5. Following Laser Cutting
- For Acrylic: Remove any protective film from the materials after cutting.
6. Assemble the Clock.
- Align the layers carefully to ensure proper alignment of the design.
- Place the record label on the clock.
- Use appropriate adhesives:
- Use clamps to secure the layers while the adhesive dries.
- Attach the clock mechanism and hands.
7. Prepare for Wall Mounting
- Attach a hook to the wall and hang the clock.
Congratulations on completing your Vinyl Beats: Time to Rock Around the Clock! Hang it in your chosen spot and admire the beautiful craftsmanship.
If you enjoyed this project, please share your experience and leave a comment below.
Need help?
- Unsure of the colours to use? Create colour swatches
- View the materials and tools I used to create the items
- View my 50 laser cutting tips
- Leave a question
The completed Vinyl Beats: Time to Rock Around the Clock
