A proximity sensor core for a proximity sensor is provided. The core is made from a sheet of high permeability material that has a thickness that is less than a width and length of the sheet of material. The sheet of material is cut or shaped such that it has a head portion extending across a width of the sheet of material and the head has a first length. First and second leg portions extend for a second length from the same edge of the head portion. Each of the first and second leg portions extend across a portion of the width of the head portion. First and second foot portions extend for a third length from the respective first and second leg portions. The first and second foot portions have the same width as the respective leg portions In the basic design, the sheet of material comprises a first bend between each of the first and second foot portions and the respective first and second leg portions so that the first and second foot portions extend generally perpendicular to the respective first and second leg portions.