You can also purchase a “tool magnetizer” designed for this purpose.
If you’re considering purchasing stainless steel and can’t investigate it before buying, ask the manufacturer what type of steel it is. You’ll want “ferritic” stainless steel or stainless steel graded as part of the “400 series. " Coincidentally, the varieties that can be magnetized tend to be cheaper, but that’s not universally true.
You can magnetize a ball bearing or other small, steel object by rubbing the steel along the magnet, instead of vice versa.
If you’re not sure where the two poles are located on the magnet, test them using a second magnet. One pole will attract a surface of the other magnet, and the opposite pole will repel the same surface.
“Enameled wire” with thin insulation will have a stronger effect. Do not use bare wire without insulation, as this will interrupt the current and fail to work. [6] X Research source Supervise young children while they work with wires.
Alternatively, wrap the wire around a heat-proof plastic tube large enough to insert your steel through. If a regular magnet is not attracted to the steel, don’t bother trying to magnetize it with a battery. Some types of stainless steel cannot be magnetized.
Never use an electrical outlet or other AC power supply, as the high voltage could blow your house fuse or create serious safety risks. [9] X Research source
If using a higher-voltage battery, you may see sparks when the circuit is completed. Only hold the wire by the insulated portion.
Putting magnetized steel through the coil a second time will demagnetize it again.
This method will not work well for small objects or steel balls that cannot be arranged north-south.
Some types of steel cannot be magnetized at home. Try a different steel object if you notice no magnetic effect at all, or switch to iron.
