How to Make a Wooden Table Clock with a Laser Cutter: Step-by-Step Tutorial

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Wooden Table Clock

2026-06-29

Key Information

Laser Machines
Material Needed
3mm Basswood Plywood
Clock Hands
Clock Movement
Project File Download
Setting 1
Laser Engraving
Speed: 400mm/s
Max Power: 20%
Min Power: 10%
Setting 2
Laser Cutting
Speed: 10mm/s
Max Power: 35%
Min Power: 10%

Introduction

A wooden table clock is small, useful, and easy to personalize.


With a laser cutter, you can turn a simple sheet of basswood into a clean standing clock for your desk, shelf, or bedside table.


In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to laser engrave, cut, and assemble a simple wooden table clock using 3mm basswood plywood, clock hands, and a clock movement.

Before your work begins

Make sure the Thunder Bolt is connected and operating normally
Prepare a clean and flat 3mm basswood plywood sheet
Prepare the clock hands and clock movement for assembly
Check the exhaust system and air assist before engraving and cutting wood

Operational Process

STEP01

Prepare & Position the Material

Place the 3mm basswood plywood flat on the laser work bed. Make sure the board is clean, stable, and not warped.


Use pins or magnets if needed to keep the plywood from moving during engraving and cutting.

put the wood on the laser bed
Pins
STEP02

Import & Adjust the Design File

Open the clock design file in your laser software.


Adjust the size of the clock body and stand, and make sure the center hole matches your clock movement. Check the layout carefully before moving to the next step.

parameters (2).png
STEP03

Set the Correct Laser Focus

Set the correct focus before processing.


Good focus helps create clean cuts and sharp details, especially on thin basswood plywood.

auto-focus-bolt
manual focus
STEP04

Frame the Design & Start Engraving and Cutting

Run the Frame function first to confirm the design fits on the wood and is positioned correctly.


Once the frame looks right, start the engraving and cutting process. Stay nearby and watch for smoke, shifting, or any unusual condition while the machine is running.

Frame your design
laser cutting the wooden table clock.png
STEP05

Post Processing

Remove the cut pieces and clean off any dust or soot.


Install the clock movement through the center hole, attach the clock hands, and assemble the wooden stand.


Check that the hands move freely before placing the clock on your desk.

assemble the table clock.png
wooden table clock (1).webp

Come and Try!

My wooden table clock is done. What about yours?


Try changing the shape, numbers, or engraving style to make a version that fits your own space. One small sheet of wood can become a clock you actually use every day.

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