Turn Your Own Droplet Clock and Companion Mirror

This two part project combines end grain and long grain turning to create beautiful home accents or heartfelt gifts. Imagine giving a His ‘n Hers wedding or anniversary present or a ‘just because’ gift! These pieces are also easy to make for craft market sales.

The clock, crafted from a single piece of wood with spindle gouges, has two parts. The base features a delicate bead, a neat fillet, and a gentle cove leading to a full bead at the top, with a dip for the clock.

For the clock, a large bead fits into the base, flowing into a long cove that's a pleasure to turn. A 2” clock face, available from many retailers, completes it, nestled into the front.

The mirror is made using a small bowl blank and a spindle blank. We used a self-adhesive acrylic mirror for the sample. This simple turn creates a charming mirror to pair with the clock.

These small items can be scaled up depending on the clock and mirror parts you have. There's also room for creativity with different colors, textures, and finishes, allowing you to craft your own unique versions.

You Will Need

Aside from your usual kit (including centre finder etc), you will need most of the kit below. Those marked as optional can be substituted for an alternative technique.

• A: 165x75mm (6.5x3”) Blank

• B: 120x25mm (4 3/4”) Blank

• C: 25x25x120mm (1x1x4 3/4”) Blank

• D: Woodworm Screw

• E: 100mm (4”) acrylic mirror

• F: 50mm (2”) clock

• G: 10mm MDF spacer

• H: Vernier Calipers

• I: 45mm (1 3/4”) forstner bit (optional)

• J: 30mm (1 3/16”) forstner bit (optional)

• K: Drive centre

• L: Live centre

• M: Jacobs chuck (optional)

• N: Spindle roughing gouge

• O: 1/2” Spindle gouge

• P: 3/8” Spindle gouge

• 3/8" Bowl Gouge (not shown)

• Q: Les Thorne Multi Purpose Tool (optional)

• R: Diamond parting tool

• S: Chuck with minimum 2” jaws

• Abrasives from 120 - 400 grit

• Colours (optional)

• Wood Glue

• Finishes