Making A Simple Compass

Method 2: Making a Compass
Using a Lodestone
(Use the bar magnet in your kit, instead.)

Method 1:

Push the nail
through a piece
of styrofoam.

Magnetize the nail
with your magnet.

Get a bowl
of water.
Mix in 3-4
drops of
liquid soap.

Keep all magnets
away from the bowl.

Keep the nail
away from the edges.

Float the nail
in the bowl.

The magnetized nail or needle should point north.

To make a compass: first magnetize a steel nail, bolt or sewing needle.
Then float it in a cup of water. Here are two ways to do this.