From Broken Clock to Kitchen Showpiece: A Charming Upcycled Transformation

Turning a Broken Clock Into Something Beautiful

Every now and then, a piece comes into my shop that’s just begging for a second chance. This time, it was a gorgeous old clock case—beautiful bones, lovely glass doors, but a completely broken clock. Instead of tossing it aside, I saw an opportunity to turn it into something truly special.  I just loved all the detail on this piece so I was anxious to dive in.

Prepping the Piece

I started by removing the remaining clock components and giving the entire case a deep clean with TSP Alternative. Years of dust and grime can hide in every corner, so a thorough cleaning is essential before any makeover.

Adding Charm With Decoupage

My vision was to highlight the glass doors with beautiful decoupage papers. To make that happen, I wanted to get ride of the gold scrolling on the glass.  I used a fine scraper and it came right off. After I cleaned the glass again, I brushed a thin layer of decoupage gel onto the inside of each door. While the gel was still wet, I carefully applied the papers I had chosen, smoothing them into place. Another coat of gel sealed them perfectly, creating a soft, artistic backdrop inside the cabinet. After they dried, I trimmed off the excess with a sharp knife.

Painting in Fusion Mineral Paint Ash

Once the decoupage was complete, it was time for paint. I chose Fusion Mineral Paint in Ash, a rich, deep grey that paired beautifully with the colors in the decoupage design. I painted the entire piece—inside and out—to give it a cohesive, polished finish.

And to highlight the details on the beautiful clock case, I dry brushed them with Lemon Gold Posh Chalk Pigments. 

A New Life in the Kitchen

When the makeover was complete, the transformation was incredible. What once was a broken clock became a unique, functional cabinet with loads of charm. A customer fell in love with it instantly and purchased it to hang in her kitchen as a spice cabinet. I couldn’t imagine a more perfect second life for this upcycled treasure.

Upcycling truly proves that with a little creativity, even the most forgotten pieces can become something beautiful again.