How To Turn An Old Bike Rim Into A Standout Wall Clock
Upcycling is the perfect way to add unique decor to your home. There is so much inspiration that you can get by just looking at aged items. Vintage jars can be easily filled with wax and a wick to make a decorative candle and spare barn boards are just the thing to make rustic shelving. There are so many crafty ways to repurpose old or unwanted items, but if you really want to get artful you can turn the wheel of that rusted-out bicycle into an amazing clock by cleaning it up and adding your own numbers and dails.
Vintage bikes have that classic look to them that makes them stand out. However, when they have reached the end of the road, there's no reason why their memory can't live on in the form of eye-catching decor around the home. When looking at the design of the bicycle the rims of the wheels stand out because of the smooth round shape interconnected with straight lines from the spokes, which lends itself flawlessly for making an interesting wall clock. This type of DIY project can be as easy or elaborate depending on the effort you want to put into it. Here are some unique ways you can turn that old bicycle rim into a fetching wall clock.
Materials you need to make a bicycle rim into a wall clock
Taking off the wheels from the bike's axle will require the use of two wrenches to loosen the nuts. To remove the tyres from the rim take a flat-head screwdriver and gently lift the wheel away from the rim a bit at a time as you work your way around. Be sure not to push too hard as you don't want to dent or damage the rim itself. If the rim is rusty or overly grimy from years of use, then you can soak it in vinegar and then scrub it with a wire brush or steel wool to remove the debris. Once the wheel is prepped you are ready to start adding the clock features.
For the clock face, repurposing the chainrings and round cassettes from the back wheel can cleverly add more elements from the bike to the finished product. Take the motor from another clock, which you can find at a thrift store, place it in the center of the wheel, and affix it with epoxy or a glue gun. Now you can add extra details that will make the clock stand out or fit in with the decor of your home.
How to design your clock
Depending on the decor and style of your home there are many ways you can customize the design of your bike rim clock so that it fits right in while also making for an excellent conversation piece. The rim and the clock face can be spray painted to any color you wish — just be sure to use a paint that works specifically for metal surfaces. To achieve a more contemporary appearance, consider the colors of the paint you choose. Black or chrome would be an appealing look or to bring out the natural metallic elements of the rim itself, alternatively, think about shining the surface or buffing it to a nice glimmery sheen.
Designing the clock numbers is a perfect way to bring out a unique look. If your style leans toward a kitschy aesthetic then seek out some retro-looking or mismatched numbers. For a more boho-chic style, add more earthy tones to the clock numbers or hands. Need it to fit in with your game room? Use old playing cards as the numbers on your clock. With the help of 3D printers, you can detail your own clock hand and numbers if you are having trouble finding what you like. The great thing about this project is that it really allows you the freedom to add personal touches so that the final wall clock can fit in with the rest of the elements of your interior.