Thanks for all your nice comments! Had no idea this would reach out to so many. Blogged here.

Sorry if my explanation is unclear - please ask if you have questions!

Pattern:
CO 16 stitches. Work in garter st until strip measures about 76 cm unstretched (for a clock that’s 30 cm in diameter), or as long as you wish (measure on the clock along the way). Sew the two short edges together to form a circular band. Crochet sc around the edge that shows on the front (mine is in brown). Pull a thread through the edge at the back, and tighten. (You could also do the same in front if it looks sloppy)