Creating a Compass Rose

Software: Adobe Photoshop
Source: Multiple attempts

Today I'm going to show you how to make a simple compass rose using adobe photoshop.

Let us start of by creating a couple of brushes.

Step 1: Make a circle.

Step 2: Rasterize the image. Then using the magic wand tool: select the area outside of the ring, inverse the selection, contract the selection (depending on your original canvas size), then delete the interior.

Your should have a resulting image that looks like this (see left).

Step 3: Using your magic wand: select only the black ring. Define your custom brush.

You should be able to see how this brush will allow you to quickly make adjustments to your compass rose.

(Learn how to define a brush here.)

Step 4: Now on a new layer: create a simple cross using the line tool. (You may have to rasterize those images and merge them together).

Step 5: Start off by reducing the transparency of your crossed lines. Use the line tool, and selection tools to create a sharp pointed blade.

Step 6: Copy the blade that you created. Use your selection and transformation tools to create the first part of the compass rose.

If you like the design you made: define this as a brush for future use.

Step 7: Copy the compass blade you made. You should have four blades at this time.

Step 8: Use the transform tool to orient your blades.

Step 9: Use the selection tool to move the compass blades into alignment.

Step 10: Fill in half of the compass blade points.

Now define this brush preset.

Step 11: Now use the two brushes that you just created to paint your compass rose onto your map.