Arts >> Magic >> Magic Tricks

How to Make an Easy Magic Trick

Discussing the psychology of magic in the May 2009 issue of "Wired Magazine," Teller, of Penn and Teller fame, explains that our brain takes a set reality for granted, so it takes shortcuts to paint a picture of reality as it's supposed to be. Magicians capitalize on this perspective of ours to make a sleight-of-hand trick work. You can make an easy-to-perform magic trick using common, household objects and a little misdirection that will amaze and stump your audience.

Things You'll Need

  • Capped marker with a pocket clip
  • 12-inch round elastic cord
  • Safety pin
  • Piece of opaque pape, 5 by 7 inchesr
  • Coat or shirt without elastic-banded sleeves
Show More

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Props

    • 1

      Tie one end of the elastic cord to the pocket clip of the marker cap. Cut off excess cord close to the knot.

    • 2

      Thread the tail end of elastic cord through the hole at the bottom of the safety pin and knot it.

    • 3

      Fasten the safety pin on the inside top part of your right sleeve. When the marker is dangling it should fall at about your elbow. Adjust the length of elastic cord at the safety pin end, if needed.

    • 4

      Stretch out the cord, so you are holding the cap of the marker in your right hand with its body extending outward. Your hand and wrist will obscure the elastic cord from audience view.

    Perform the Trick

    • 5

      Uncap the marker to demonstrate that it is a real marker. Scribble on the paper to emphasize. Do not let go of the marker cap during this time.

    • 6

      Cap the marker.

    • 7

      Position a corner of the paper in front of the pen. You should be holding the paper and the cap together.

    • 8

      Wrap the paper loosely around the marker, using both hands and keeping the elastic cord hidden with your right wrist.

    • 9

      Hold the wrapped marker loosely in your right hand.

    • 10

      Release the marker cap, allowing it to retract into your sleeve while the paper is still holding its marker shape.

    • 11

      Rip the paper, roll it up into tiny pieces and throw them in the air.

Magic Tricks

Related Categories