Makers Cabinet drawing compass Iris

The Iris by Makers Cabinet adapts the aperture mechanism of camera optics for drawing circles: stainless steel blades open and close concentrically within a solid brass housing – the diameter can be adjusted continuously from Ø 3 to 70 mm. Two knurled brass rings control the mechanism, and a laser-engraved scale with a red dot marker allows you to read off the diameter. The milled brass feels substantial and cool in the hand, whilst the natural rubber underside keeps it in position on the paper while drawing.

Features

• Iris aperture mechanism: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel spring steel blades rotate within the brass housing, forming a perfectly circular opening – precisely adjustable between Ø 3 and 70 mm. Adjustment is made by counter-rotating the two outer rings.
• Solid brass body: The housing is crafted from solid, milled brass. The substantial weight provides natural stability when drawing, and the knurled surface offers a secure grip when adjusting.
• Engraved measuring scale: A red dot on the scale allows you to read the circle diameter without additional tools – useful for repeating a specific size or measuring existing circles.
• Natural rubber underside: The natural rubber base prevents the instrument from slipping on your work surface while drawing.
• Dark walnut centering guide: The included walnut centering guide enables precise positioning of the centre point without puncturing the paper. When inverted, it serves as a display stand for storage.
• Patina-developing material: Brass oxidises with use and develops a characteristic, warm patina. The stainless steel blades remain unaffected – they are corrosion-resistant.

Use & Tips

• Breaking in: The instrument may feel stiff initially. It becomes smoother when the iris is opened and closed several times between the palms of your hands – this process loosens the blades and noticeably improves movement.
• Single and concentric circles: For concentric circles, continue turning the iris after the first circle without moving the centre point – the walnut centering guide helps you hold the anchor point precisely.
• Hatched circles: By slowly and evenly turning the aperture whilst drawing, a spiral-like hatching pattern emerges – a technique that cannot be reproduced with conventional compasses.
• Writing instruments: The opening is compatible with pencils, mechanical pencils, fine-tip pens and fountain pens. For technically clean edges, use a writing instrument with a slim, straight point. The pen should be held as vertically as possible so the line runs evenly along the blade ring.
• Measuring circles: The engraved scale makes the iris useful as a measuring tool – simply place it over an existing circle and read the diameter from the marker.
• Care: Brass can be refreshed with a polishing cloth if desired. The stainless steel blades require no special care.

For Drawing Enthusiasts

The iris mechanism operates on the same principle as a camera lens aperture: several curved spring steel blades are arranged in an overlapping offset pattern and suspended in two counter-rotating brass rings. When the rings are turned, all blades pivot simultaneously, continuously adjusting the diameter of the circular opening. Unlike a traditional compass, the iris leaves no puncture hole in the paper – it works from above and transfers no damage to the surface below.

Technical Specifications