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Comments on How do I build a wooden compass?

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How do I build a wooden compass? Question

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How can I make my own compass out of wood? (I mean the drawing tool, not the direction-finder.)

Ideally, I'd like something that:

  • Handles diameters from 3 in to 2 ft
  • Has minimal non-wooden parts like screws
  • Light duty but shouldn't fall apart after a handful of uses
  • Can change the pencil easily, and replace pencil with a needle or marking knife
  • As easy as possible to construct

I have access to basic woodworking tools (hand and power) and am comfortable with basic woodworking techniques.

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1 comment thread

Too simple for an answer, but works (4 comments)
Too simple for an answer, but works
trichoplax‭ wrote over 1 year ago · edited over 1 year ago

I'm guessing you want something more sophisticated as you mention woodworking tools, but here's an instant compass recipe (the only non-wooden ingredients are a needle and water):

  1. Slice a shallow disk from the end of a bottle cork.
  2. Push a magnetised needle through it along its diameter.
  3. Float it in a small wooden cup/bowl of water.
Monica Cellio‭ wrote over 1 year ago

I think the question is about a drawing compass, not a magnetic compass. But until I got to "pencil" I wasn't sure either.

trichoplax‭ wrote over 1 year ago

I did get to "pencil" and still didn't realise my mistake, as it said it could be replaced with a needle. Then I got to "marking knife" and just thought "I had no idea there were so many things that could be magnetised to make a compass". I clearly need sleep...