Gavin Rourke: Final Project - Skyline Clock

Making my clock was a challenging but successful experience. I learned how to utilize tools that I hadn't used before, how to design and construct a somewhat complex clock, and how to stain wood for a high quality finish. Making a clock with 3 layers required time, effort and significant planning.

Drawing several thumbnail sketches is an essential step in designing. It creates an environment where ideas pour out on to your paper. I have found myself in situations where I am excited about an idea that I want to commit to. However, I have learned that although it is tempting to skip this step, it will usually bring you even better ideas or upgrade your initial idea.

Feedback is one of the most important steps of the design process and is essential to make your project the best that it can be. Although it may seem tedious, it really makes a serious impact on your project. The constructive criticism I received shaped my projects and brought so many improvements.

A cardstock prototype is the first step to making your idea come to life. It is essentially a first draft. It is important to improve upon this first draft. It should give you an idea of what the shape and dimensions should be on your final design.

The cardstock prototype should give you an idea of what dimensions are ideal. These should be transferred onto a dimensional plan on paper. This plan gives you an idea of what you want the measurements of your design to be. The plan should be thorough and thought out.

The cardboard prototype should give you an idea of what the final product will look like. Any imperfections should be adjusted.