Use Doilies To Transform An Old Frying Pan Into A Clock With Rustic Charm

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In a world where many check their phones to acquire the time, nothing beats having a simple wall clock. There's no need for it to be plain, though. It's actually easy to create a DIY version where an old frying pan becomes the clock's base, and doilies help embellish it. The end result is as charming-looking as it is useful. Plus, it's a genius way to turn an old frying pan into a home treasure that'll spark conversations.

Doilies may be old school, but incorporating them into a room beautifully complements the cottagecore (or granny chic) aesthetic. In the following project shared on the midnight_laughs TikTok channel, they're what give the clock additional whimsy. Hopefully you have some on hand — along with a spare frying pan, a drill, paint, and decoupage glue. You'll also need a clock kit to actually bring the piece to life, such as this Youngtown Clock Mechanism on Amazon.

Make sure to give your old frying pan a good cleaning before transforming it. One way is to fill it with soapy water, then heat it up on the stove. Remove the pan from the burner and allow it to soak for several hours. Finally, clean it in the sink with a sponge or brush. If your cookware really needs some work, there's also a method to make burnt pots and pans sparkle again with Epsom salt.

Begin by creating a hole in the middle of your pan using a drill. Make sure it's directly in the center, as it's where you will be attaching the clock hands. Next, paint the back of the pan a color that'll go along with your other home decor. Just steer away from white if you want the doilies to pop! For example, you could use Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Spray Paint, which comes in a variety of colors. Let it sit to dry.

@midnight_laughs

You won't believe what I made with old lace and an old frying pan! #artandcraft #craftideas #artcraft #crafty #diycraft

♬ Happy / Video CM / Ukulele ♬ Cooking / Family(897363) – ImoKenpi-Dou

Next, lay the pan upside down on a surface so that the handle is pointing upwards. Plan how you'd like the doilies to look on your clock. You could attach a singular cloth in the center, or cut pieces out for a customized design. Apply decoupage glue to the back of the pan (like Mod Podge), then place the doily (or doily pieces) over it. Paint on a second layer of glue to seal the fabric. Once everything is dry, you can install the clock parts according to the instructions within the kit.

Not all analog clocks have numbers — so it's up to you whether you want yours to include them. However, it's another way to put creativity into the DIY. You could cut numbers out of materials like foam or felt, then attach them using hot glue. Another option is to use pre-made versions like these Jtnohx Glitter Number Stickers. For a different look, craft Roman numerals or hour marks instead. Just make sure that the clock hands can easily pass over your additions.

Feel free to dress the frying pan up even more. Add a bow to its top, or wrap the handle in cordage like jute twine. Decorate the sides of the clock with lacy ribbon, seashells, or wooden beads. After you're done, hang the clock up by the hole in its handle, somewhere it can be enjoyed. It would look so cute in a kitchen, bedroom, or near a desk. If you can't get enough of the grandma vibe (and your clock needs company), there are other stunning ways to style vintage doilies as well.