How to Build Your Own Weather Vane

Learn how to track wind direction by building a simple, functional weather vane using household items. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Cut your vane shapes. Cut a triangle shape for the arrow point and a larger rectangle for the tail out of your index card. These pieces will help your weather vane catch the wind.
2. Assemble the arrow. Cut a small slit in each end of your straw. Slide the triangle into one end and the rectangle into the other, then secure them with small pieces of tape.
3. Mount the vane. Find the balance point in the middle of your straw. Ask a grown-up to help you push the sewing pin through the balance point of the straw and into the eraser of the pencil.
4. Set up your base. Stick the bottom of your pencil into a lump of clay or a cork so it stands upright. Place your weather vane outside in an open area.