Backyard Bushcraft: Making a Compass in Your Back Garden 

Exploring the great outdoors can be an exhilarating experience, whether it’s venturing into the woods or simply spending time in your backyard. While modern technology has made navigation easier, there’s something intriguing and satisfying about setting off with just a compass. Rather than relying solely on store-bought compasses, why not try your hand at making one from scratch? In this blog post, we’ll discover an exciting and educational way to create your own compass using simple materials found in your back garden. You can also watch how to do make your own compass here.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools

To start this DIY compass-making project, you’ll need a few readily available items. Here’s what you’ll require:

• A small, flat leaf
• A small, lightweight magnet, such as a refrigerator magnet
• A shallow bowl or container with water
• A sewing pin
• Marker pens

Step 2: Creating the Water Container

Fill a shallow bowl or container with water about two-thirds of the way full. Ensure the container is wide enough to fit the plastic lid or small glass jar lid. Place this on flat ground on the floor.

Step 3: Magnetize the Pin

Take the magnet and carefully rub the pin up across the magnet in the same direction each time (move the pointy end of the pin away from you each time). This process aims to magnetize the pin, helping it align with the Earth’s magnetic field. Repeat this process a few times to enhance the magnetism.

Step 2: Adding the leaf

Put your leaf in your bowl of water and place the pin on top of the leaf, so that it floats. Pay attention to any movement or tilting; the leaf should rest parallel to the surface of the water.

Step 6: Marking the Directions:

Using the pen or marker, carefully label the north-south line on the lid, parallel to the edge of the container. The pointy end of the pin will point north and the opposite end will point south. You can also place additional markers for east and west, ensuring they form right angles with the north-south line. This will help determine the cardinal directions accurately.

Step 7: Observing Your Compass in Action:

Once you’ve marked the key directions, give your homemade compass a little push and observe the pin’s movements. It should settle pointing towards the Earth’s magnetic north, approximately parallel to the markings you made. Rotate the lid, and you’ll notice the leaf follows the magnetic pull consistently.

This DIY compass project offers a unique opportunity to explore the basics of magnetism and magnetic navigation while enjoying your backyard space. By creating your own compass, you not only engage in a fun and educational activity, but you also gain a valuable tool for future adventures and mapping out your surroundings. Remember, while your homemade compass may not be as precise as store-bought ones, it serves as an excellent starting point for understanding the concept of magnetism and basic navigation skills. So, go ahead, embark on this exciting DIY adventure, and let nature be your guide!