The weather vane is an ancient device for determining wind direction. The principle is simple--a thin plate or beam turning on top of a staff or pole. One or more directions is marked on the fixed pole. The movable portion blows toward the markers. Still in use today, the weather vane can be seen in a variety of shapes and styles. From the traditional rooster to the simple arrow, it graces both rural and urban landscapes.
Step 1
Make your weather vane out of wood that is thin and light. The weather vane must be light enough to work properly, but strong enough to withstand high winds. The pole should be about the thickness of a similar-sized flagpole. Place the wooden board, wide side up, on top of a table and draw a "V" at one end. The point of the "V" should touch the very end of the board exactly in the middle. The other ends of the "V" should reach to the sides of the board. Cut along the lines of the "V." Your board should now look approximately like an arrow.
Step 2
Lay one end of the pole on top of the board. It should be perpendicular to the arrow and come most of the way up the width of the board. Take a bracket and fit it over the poll in about the middle of the board. You can also use a strip of metal instead of a bracket. Bend the bracket or metal strip so that it fits closely around the poll--closely, not snugly. You do not want it too tight. Test the fit by spinning the board. The board should turn easily but not fall quickly down the pole. Once the fit is good, secure the bracket in place with screws or nails. Adjust the board so that the bracket is somewhere close to the top of the pole.
Step 3
Drive two small nails into the pole just below the bracket. Space them evenly along the bracket. The two nails prevent the bracket from slipping down. Remove the board and bracket and place a washer on top of the bracket. Put the board and bracket back onto the pole. Now, take one of the laths and paint an "N" at one end of its flat side. Next, paint the letter "S" at the opposite end of the same side. Turn the lath over and repeat the same procedure. The letters should be large and bold enough to be viewed from a distance. Take the second lath and paint letters on it in exactly the same manner as on the first lath, the only difference being that you will paint an "E" instead of an "N," and a "W" instead of an "S."
Step 4
Attach one of the laths to the pole at a point about six inches below the two nails. The lath should be attached through the middle of the piece using glue, nails or staples. Attach the second lath immediately below, and perpendicular to, the first lath. The laths must be perpendicular for proper indication of the four directions. Your may now use your weather vane. Align it to true north--the "N" on the lath--by using either the sun or a compass. Secure the weather vane in your desired location.
Step 5
Try different designs for your weather vane. A vane may be made of any material that is light enough to turn easily in the wind. Any shape is acceptable as long as it is flat and capable of catching the breeze. Experiment with various geometric shapes, or try depicting an animal, bird or similar figure.
Skill: Easy
Ingredients:
- Narrow wooden 3 pole
- Thin wooden board 2' long x 6" wide
- Two thin wooden laths 18 inches long
- Measuring compass
- Metal bracket or strip
- Metal washer or ring that will fit snugly over the pole
Warning: Use caution if securing your weather vane in a high place. Have someone spot you on a ladder. Do not place the weather vane where it might be struck by branches or other objects.
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