DIY Aquarium Wall Clock: Upcycle Old Clock into Stunning Underwater Scene

Updated at: 27/05/2025

Transform a forgotten, dusty old clock into a mesmerizing underwater world with this unique DIY project! Instead of discarding that ticking relic, give it a new life as a stunning aquarium wall clock, a captivating centerpiece that blends practicality and artistic expression. This project offers a fantastic opportunity to upcycle an unwanted item and unleash your creativity, resulting in a personalized and eye-catching addition to your home décor. Imagine the tranquil beauty of an underwater scene subtly pulsating with the gentle sweep of the clock's hands.

This detailed guide will walk you through the process of crafting your own DIY aquarium wall clock, from sourcing materials and preparing the clock mechanism to painting a breathtaking underwater scene and sealing your masterpiece. Ready to dive into this rewarding and surprisingly simple project? Let's begin with the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Old wall clock
  • Colored chalk papers
  • Oil pastels/Poster colors
  • Plastic fish toys
  • Seashells
  • Glue
  • Double-sided tape
  • Screwdrivers
Safety Guidelines
  • Always unplug the clock mechanism before handling any electrical components or working with water. Electricity and water are a dangerous combination.
  • Use a sealant specifically designed for aquariums and ensure it's completely cured before adding water to prevent leaks and protect the clock mechanism from moisture damage.
  • Avoid using toxic paints, glues, or sealants inside the clock case. These can leach harmful chemicals into the water, potentially harming any aquatic life you might add.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Clock

    • Dismantle the wall clock by unscrewing it. Remove the frame, glass, needles, motor, and cell.
    Dismantle the wall clock by unscrewing it. Remove the frame, glass, needles, motor, and cell.
    Prepare the Clock

  2. Create the Background

    • Use the clock's glass as a stencil to cut a circular piece of blue chalk paper for the background.
    • Fix the background (blue chalk paper circle) inside the clock.
    Fix the background (blue chalk paper circle) inside the clock.Fix the background (blue chalk paper circle) inside the clock.
    Create the Background

  3. Paint the Underwater Scene

    • Trace and color the outlines of aquatic plants using oil pastels or poster colors.
    Trace and color the outlines of aquatic plants using oil pastels or poster colors.
    Paint the Underwater Scene

  4. Arrange Aquarium Elements

    • Arrange and fix plastic plants, seashells, and toy fish to the bottom of the clock using hot glue or double-sided tape.
    • arrange and fix remaining fish, seashells, and stones using double-sided tape.
    Add finishing touches: arrange and fix remaining fish, seashells, and stones using double-sided tape.Add finishing touches: arrange and fix remaining fish, seashells, and stones using double-sided tape.
    Arrange Aquarium Elements

  5. Add Water Bubbles

    • Use white correction pen to create water bubbles, and wipe off excess ink with cotton swabs.
    • Shade the bubbles with oil pastels.
    Shade the bubbles with oil pastels.Shade the bubbles with oil pastels.
    Add Water Bubbles

  6. Reassemble the Clock

    • Place the glass and frame back on the clock and secure using screws.
    Place the glass and frame back on the clock and secure using screws.
    Reassemble the Clock

  7. Finish and Cover

    • Cover the back of the clock with a cake base (optional).
    Cover the back of the clock with a cake base (optional).
    Finish and Cover

Read more: DIY Blender from a Broken Beyblade Launcher!

Tips

  • Consider using clay to create your own fish and aquatic plants instead of relying solely on plastic items.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Sealing

Reason: Water leaking into the clock mechanism will cause irreparable damage.
Solution: Ensure all seams and joins are thoroughly sealed with waterproof sealant before adding water.

2. Incorrect Water Level

Reason: Too much water can cause the clock hands to become stuck or damaged; too little may not properly submerge the desired elements.
Solution: Carefully test the water level before permanently sealing the clock, adjusting as needed to ensure proper submersion and function.

FAQs

What kind of paint should I use for the underwater scene?
Acrylic paints are ideal for this project. They're water-based, easy to clean up, and dry quickly, allowing for layering and detail work. Ensure you use a sealant afterwards to protect the paint and make it water-resistant.
How do I ensure the clock mechanism continues to work after I've added the resin?
Carefully position the clock mechanism before pouring the resin. Make sure it's securely attached and completely dry. Use a resin that is specifically designed for crafts and is non-toxic. The resin should not interfere with the clock's operation if it is applied correctly.
Can I use any type of clock for this project?
Ideally, choose a clock with a shallow, flat face. The depth of the clock face will influence the amount of resin needed and the overall effect of the finished piece. Avoid clocks with overly intricate or fragile designs.