Instead of stashing away a mismatched plate because it doesn't have a place at the dinner table, put it on display. Using a battery-operated clock mechanism, you can turn an antique separated from its set into an unexpected timekeeper to hang on the wall or stand on a table. Thus reimagined, the dish will serve a purpose not only during mealtimes, but all day long.

Plate Clock How-To
In addition to the plate and the clock kit (available at crafts stores and through online clock-parts suppliers), you'll need:

Ruler
Felt-tip pen
Drill
Masonry bit
Fine-grit sandpaper
Latex paint
Mounting hardware or a plate stand

1. Set plate facedown on a soft work surface, such as a folded towel. Use a ruler and a pen to find and mark the center point. Using a drill fitted with a masonry bit, carefully drill at low speed through the point.

2. You can customize clock hands, which come in dozens of styles and sizes, to match your dish. Lightly sand the surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper to help them hold paint. Paint hands in a coordinating shade. To create a distressed look, lightly sand again after the paint has dried.

3. Attach the clock mechanism and hands according to the manufacturer's instructions. Hang clock, or display in stand.