How to make a Time to Skate clock with recycled skateboards and pallet wood.

Skaters, I'm sure you've all got some old wheels and bearings stashed away, probably in a box under the bed or in the garage. Remember those worn-out Powell Peralta Rat Bones that you used to grind with or those Spitfires that made a heelflip so much easier. What better way to display those wheels you used to ride, turn trash into treasure, by making a clock and bring a bit of street to the home. Not only will it look stylish and retro on your wall but it'll also be a great talking piece when you have guests....and everybody loves having a story to tell.

• 4 used or new skateboard wheels
• 8 bearings
• Pallet wood
• Clear silicone that seals and sticks
• Extra long spindle clock mechanism (21mm is best)
• Wood glue
• Clear satin varnish or spray paints

Upcycling has become so popular over the years as people have discovered that instead of throwing away old or broken objects,with a bit of imagination we can repurpose those objects and reduce our footprint (which is already 1.5 times planet earth). By redesigning and rethinking what you already own or what people have thrown,you can create some pretty cool stuff.

Making this clock is a great way to use what you already have lying around in the garden or garage.....or even what you find in the street. Many a time I've stopped the car suddenly and jumped out to salvage an old piece of wood that had been discarded. Using what you have also allows you to get creative. Every finish on my clock is different and I never really know how it will turn out. So don't plan it.....just go with the flow. That's the best thing about upcycling, as well as saving the environment, each piece is individual and unique, not to mention so much cheaper.

• First prepare your base. I always use pallet wood because it's easy to come by and I like the effects it gives the clocks with all it's imperfections. Cut your wood 30cm long. Depending on the pallet you are using you may need 3 or 4 of these as there are varying thicknesses.
• Use wood glue to stick the planks together and hold together with clamps. Wipe off excess glue before it dries. Wait 24 hours.
• Meanwhile prepare your wheels and bearings. Soak bearings in white wine vinegar for a few hours then you'll find old grease just wipes off. Scrub wheels in soap and water.
• When base is dry, remove clamps.
• Sand the clock base to remove any rough edges.
• Decide if you want to leave the wood natural with all the imperfections or, if the wood you have isn't that interesting, paint it. I use a satin clear varnish if I'm going for the natural look. Or I'll get the spray paints out and spray and sand and spray and sand again until I like the effect. All personal taste. Leave to dry.
• To mark the clock face I use an old clock template. Find the center of your clock base and go from there, marking the 12 hours with a pencil.
• Using clear sticking silicone, glue your wheels and bearings in place. Make sure you wipe of any excess as you go or it'll look messy!
• Again, wait 24 hours
• Drill a hole in the center of your clock using a number 8 drill bit
• Fix your clock mechanism in place

That's it, your clock's ready to go! A really great present or something to make for yourself. Feel free to ask if you have any questions. I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions too.

For all you Instagramers out there, check out my profile for more of my creations including pallets and upcycled skateboards LOUISE28SMITH. More hubs on the way....

It's important to buy an EXTRA long spindle clock mechanism or it won't be long enough to reach through the pallet wood! Good luck!