Abstract: A beam compass having exchangeable parts for drawing on a variety of surfaces. The central post of the compass is moveable along the beam to vary the radius, and the central post has a rotatable sleeve with a knob at the upper end of the post. One may hold the sleeve and rotate the knob to draw a circle. The marker carrier at the end of the beam can receive a large marker such as a large felt-tip pen, or a chuck can be inserted, the chuck receiving smaller diameter markers such as crayons or chalk. A knob on the upper end of the chuck can be used to manipulate the compass if desired. Also, the central post terminates in the center holding device to be placed at the center of the circle, and this device is exchangeable to fit the particular surface. In the event the center holding device is a needle, a slidable guard selectively covers the needle for safety.