It's not that simple

North American Sundial Society FAQ

In short it 12 noon should be in line with true north in winter time. If you add a year in summer then 1pm will face true north. True north can be found at night with a clear sky. It is the star called polaris or the north star. There is a little more to it but that's the short version for you...

Vicki

Here is a link that might be useful: How To Make Sundials

Victoria, selling products is not allowed in the gardenweb. Just thought you should know.

It should face towards the north star. The main problem with a sun dial is that it keeps solar time, which can be as much as 45 minutes off from standard time depending on what part of your time zone you live in.

Hi,
Those who sell "decorator" sundials will tell you that the sundial tells solar time. Sorry, but that is the jargon for a non-functioning sundial. It doesn't tell time because it is a decorator item. Only a sundial that is designed for your spot on this earth will tell accurate time for that location. I design sundials and it is very rare that the 12 is on the "north star" or "polar north" line. This only happens if you live on the longitude of the beginning of a time zone, ie 75 degrees is the beginning of EST, 90 deg is the beginning od CST,etc. If you live 150 miles west of the begining of the time zone the 12 will be situated to the left of the polar north line. See my website for photos.

Here is a link that might be useful: Garden Sundial