DIY 3D-Printed Minecraft Compass: Turn Pixel Art into Reality

Key Takeaways

1. A GitHub project has created a functional, handheld compass inspired by Minecraft, using 3D printing, LEDs, and custom code.
2. The design features a pixelated look, with a 3D printed face and LED grid for light diffusion, enhancing visibility even in bright light.
3. The project gained popularity on Reddit, where a video showcased its real-life functionality, surprising many viewers who thought it was a digital image.
4. The compass includes a microcontroller and a digital magnetometer sensor for accurate directional measurements, with real-time LED updates.
5. Comprehensive build instructions, including 3D print files and firmware, are available on GitHub for those interested in creating their own compass.


A GitHub project is gaining significant traction on Reddit, and it’s something that fans of Minecraft will surely appreciate. One user has successfully transformed the game’s recognizable compass into a functional, handheld gadget. This open-source initiative, available on GitHub, provides a step-by-step guide on constructing the compass from scratch utilizing 3D printing, LEDs, and personalized code.

Unique Design

The design captures the pixelated essence of the Minecraft compass while offering genuine real-world capabilities. A slender layer made from 3D printing acts as the face, beneath which a grid of LEDs shines to illuminate the “needle.” Observers of the project have noted how cleverly the build manages light diffusion, eliminating bright spots, preventing leaks, and ensuring that the pointer remains visible even in bright daylight.

Reddit Reaction

First showcased on Reddit, a brief video featuring the compass being held in hand quickly amassed thousands of upvotes and comments. Many viewers initially believed it was a digital image, but were taken aback to discover it was a tangible item. A closer inspection of the construction reveals that clear filament is strategically used in critical areas to facilitate controlled light diffusion, enhancing the “illusion” of a screen while remaining true to the Minecraft aesthetic.

Technical Specifications

As stated in the documentation on GitHub, the compass utilizes a microcontroller along with a digital magnetometer sensor for directional measurements. The LEDs dynamically update in real-time to reflect the pointer’s position, smoothly adjusting as the user rotates the device. If you’re interested, you can access comprehensive build instructions, inclusive of 3D print files and firmware, to create your very own version of this compass.

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