A simple magneto-rheological fluid can be home-made out of small magnetic particles mixed with mineral, vegetable or motor oil

(sae10 or other lightweight). Iron filings do not work well; they are too big. Good sources for small magnetic particles are: * magnetic laser printer toner * magnetic inspection powder from welding shops * particles from burned steel wool (after mortar and pestle) * particles scraped from the surface of video tapes * particles "mined" from sand with a plastic bag and a magnet (see external links) * magnetic ink used to print checks A 1:1 ratio between the oil and magnetic powder seems to work best These fluids are not very stable, however. The particles will tend to clump and the fluid properties will be lost quickly. Fluids created for professional purposes use emulsifiers to suspend very small oily (octane or kerosene) magnetic particles in water. The particles are very fine; less than a micrometer in diameter. Note: This stains! It is practically impossible to clean, so use caution when mixing or using!