A clock kit is a set of wood parts that are pre-cut, pre-profiled, factory-sanded, and ready to be assembled right out of the box. Clock kits are a wonderful way for those without access to woodworking equipment to be able to partake in the enjoyment of woodworking as a hobby. They are a great maker, of DIY projects!
Each clock kit will come with all the necessary hardware, fasteners, and components needed to complete the final assembly. Hardware can include items such as hinges, magnetic catches, glass retainer strip, and decorative accent hardware. Fasteners could consist of anything from wood screws to small brads and escutcheon pins.
Components can include quartz clock motors, mechanical movements, music box movements, and any additional supporting hardware required to complete your clock project. Each clock kit will also be packaged with pilot drill bits (if needed for assembly), wood glue, some starter sheets of sandpaper (coarse, medium, and fine grit), and step-by-step assembly instructions with supporting assembly illustrations.
Like any hobby, clock kit building will require an initial (minimal) investment for some items from your local hardware store. Standard assembly tools such as a drill, hammer, screwdriver, tape ruler, square, clamping, and pliers could be required for any given clock kit. Protective finishes, such as varnish or polyurethane, and applicators will also be a necessary purchase (note that the additional purchase of stain is always optional). Finally, some additional medium and fine-grit sandpaper is always good to have at hand as well as any “super-fine” grit sandpaper you will use during the finishing process.
In summary, the clock kit is a unique and inclusive way to enter the realm of woodworking and create an heirloom quality assembly that can be treasured and enjoyed for many years to come. Kits do not require the purchase of large woodshop machinery and do not require much in the way of actual woodworking skills when assembling. The best part? No one ever needs to know the fact that there was no cutting or shaping of any of the wood parts involved in building the resulting assembly… That will be our little secret!