Process and Procedure

My process ended up deviating from my original project intentions. I originally planned on making the clock 3D in that the analog hands and mechanism would be set inside the black space of the mouth. After starting to model my design and continued thinking about how I would fit everything together, I realized that simplifying would be best, especially since the time frame was so short.

I decided to maintain all materials and general shapes/measurements (the clock ended up being 17in x 11in in the end), and got rid of the 3D box I was planning on making. Instead, I would layer my elements together using acrylic cement and would open a whole in the center to allow the hand mechanism to fit through. I also decided to get rid of the hook-openings, as a result of the sheer size and weight distribution of the clock itself. I decided to engrave lightly on the tongue, allowing for a rougher, tongue-like texture. I was going to score around the edges of the mouth's shape, but thought it look TOO cartoon-ish; I ended up scoring my name in the back instead.

With these new changes in mind, I began to laser cut. For the most part, things went pretty well. The elements within the mouth came out fine (i.e. - tongue, mouth, and background). It wasn't until I got to the mouth's shape that things went unplanned - initially my cut paths were not united, so the laser cutter would outline the shape I desired, but wouldn't cut through the actual acrylic material. After a few more tests, I finally realized this problem and was able to correct.