Question for JTTHECLOCKMAN

[JoelM]

Hello Sir,
You seem to be the authority on clocks on this forum, so I thought I'd direct this question to you.
A friend of mine and his wife just bought a new house with a fireplace and a nice mantle, I thought it would be cool to make them a nice mantle clock for a house warming gift.
I have never attempted to make a clock before, so I'm not sure what's involved. I have looked at patterns and kits, and some of them look a little intimidating. Do you have any reccomendations for something that wouldn't be too tough for a novice, but would still look nice sitting on someones mantle?

Any advice you can throw my way will be appreciated, Thank You.

[William Young]

While you are waiting for John's ideas on your question I will suggest a very simple to make Tambor clock that I have made a couple dozen of and look very nice on a mantle. They are probably about as basic as you would want to go yet still look fairly attractive.
There are variations of the pattern and different wood color combinations can be used. I got the patterns from WildwoodDesigns for mine.
W.Y.
http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL1620/1718813/3303038/50381745.jpg

[JTTHECLOCKMAN]

Joel

As far as authority on clockmaking, not by a long shot. I have made many clocks over the years and I only wish I had taken photos of some of the ones I did do but back then picture taking and web sites was not in my vocabulary. As far as suggestions go I would look at the various pattern companies such as http://www.wildwooddesigns.com/ and put in the search feature Mantle Clocks and you will see a whole bunch come up. Other sites that might be of interest would be the Berry Basket, http://www.berrybasket.com/. Now I know you said you are more familar with a bandsaw than a scroll saw so if a scrollsawn clock is not of interest then you can try a more formal clock and the tools used are other woodworking tools. You can find a great selection at Klockit www.klockit.com You can get the plans and or the kit and or both. You can also get the mechanical works. Making a clock is not that hard at all. You can get fit-ups in just about any size. You can get motors and clock faces. I know it may seem I am dodging your question but in reality I do not know your woodworking skills but from some of your photos I know you can handle it. Try to take in the theme of the house when deciding and the persons tastes. I will post a couple clocks that have been very good sellers for me and placed on mantles.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v233/JTTHECLOCKMAN/CopyofIMGP0193.jpg

This is a Berry Basket clock and is one of my best sellers.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v233/JTTHECLOCKMAN/CopyofLarawayClock.jpg

This is a Dan and Ray Wilckens clock called the Laraway Clock
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v233/JTTHECLOCKMAN/CopyofTheGuardianTimepiece.jpg

This is a Dirk Boelman clock called The Guardian Timepiece. This pattern can be found at his site http://www.theartfactory.com/videos.htm

I hope some of this helps and if anyone else wants to jump in on this feel free. Joel if you have any questions whatever pattern you decide just ask them here and they will be answered.

[uhmnl]

Here is a picture of 3 clock from The Art Factory.
http://www.mikesworkshop.com/photos/cottage%20clocks.jpg
Mike.

[JoelM]

Thanks for the replies, guys!
I know the question was a little vague, I just didn't want to get in over my head. My woodworking skills need a little polish. I found a pattern at wildwood I like, so I think I'm going to give it a try. I'll post a picture when I get it done. (if it turns out good enough) :)

[GrayBeard Phil]

Joel:

A quick word about mantel clocks:

I made one, but it was light weight as it was only 1/2 inch thick wood. I gave it to a relative with a cat.

The cat took one look at it on the shelf, gave a sneer that looked like a disdainful "NO Challenge" and then with a swipe of its front paw batted (flung?) the clock off the mantel. The fretwork mantel clock ended up in many pieces.

I haven't made a mantel clock since, but I do have a piece of heavy Corian for a base if I ever make another one.

Phil

[JTTHECLOCKMAN]

Joel

We look forward to seeing your clock. As always if questions arise as your working on it just post them here and they will get answered. I am sure you will have no problem. Not sure what clock you have in mind but if I may make a suggestion, get the works that you want to use in it also. There are times especially if using a pendulum the swing does not work in some of these patterns. Things can be done to correct this before you start. Same with if it is a motor and clock face. You need to order the correct length motor. Good luck and will be watching for photos. :)