Traditionally, the most common dowsing rod is a forked (Y-shaped) branch from a tree or bush.  Hazel twigs are traditionally commonly chosen, as are branches from willow or peach trees.

The two ends on the forked side are held one in each hand with the third (the stem of the Y) pointing straight ahead. The dowser then walks slowly over the places where he suspects the Artefacts may be, and the dowsing rod dips, inclines or twitches when a discovery is made.