We developed a compact DC magnetometer using a high-temperature superconductor (HTS) superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) to measure very weak magnetic signals from samples such as paramagnetic and diamagnetic materials. The samples were rotated in the DC magnetic field that was detected by a normal conductive pick-up coil. The detected signal was transferred to an input coil that was inductively coupled to the SQUID. To clarify the basic characteristics of this system, the magnetic signal from a magnetic material was measured by varying the sample position and rotation speed. Then, the magnetic signal from pure water was measured under the optimized condition and a very weak magnetic signal from pure water was successfully detected. Therefore, the developed system could be applied to various non-destructive evaluation systems. © 2012 IOP Publishing Ltd.