A nautilus star, also known as a compass rose, is a motif used in ancient as well as current cultures; it’s seen on maps and fine furniture alike. It’s a symbol of location, direction, accuracy, and a universal compass which many people recognize. Its design is derived from the magnetic compass that was refined in Italy circa 1200 AD.
Typically, the star has eight points: four major axes (cardinal directions) indicating at North (0°), South (180°), East (90°), and West (270°) respectively; and four minor points (ordinal directions) at 45° between the major axes. On maps, a fleur-de-lis is primarily on the top of the North axis.
I’ve tried a lot of techniques over the years, including a template and a square, but this method of inlaying a nautilus star is the most precise way I’ve found. It’s easy to do with a few tools like a compass, an X-acto knife, and a straightedge, and by following the steps in this article,
