These are the steps on how to properly set a sundial. A sundial must be anchored in a garden by someone who knows how to set the dial at the correct angle to tell accurate time. Placement is different for every location. To set your sundial:
On one of these dates, go outside at noon and position the sundial so the shadow cast by the gnomon indicates noon as well.
Some notes:
Sundials do NOT account for Daylight Savings Time so your sundial will be off by an hour.
A compass shows magnetic north but not true or geographic north. To use a compass, you will have to adjust for your location (magnetic declination) using the data on the NOAA website.
Your gnomon may be the wrong size or at the wrong angle for your latitude. You can compensate for this by raising or lowering the bottom edge of your sundial.
A sundial is a useful and attractive addition to your garden. Find prices of more sundials in our online price guide.
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