What Is Flash Paper for Magic?
The tools a magician possesses have been developed to wow audiences as much as they are used to disguise sleight of hand and other trickery. One particular visual spectacle, spontaneous fire, is created using a material known as flash paper. This small piece of paper is used by magicians who are looking to make an item vanish, divert attention, or merely gain applause from a portable party trick.
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What Does It Do?
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Flash paper is a material that, upon ignition, burns up with a bright light. It is small enough to fit comfortably in a magician's hand.
How It Works
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To activate flash paper, a heat source--such as a lit match or cigarette--is applied directly to the paper. The flash lasts a few seconds before turning to a small bit of ash. Magicians will also use hidden devices to activate the flash.
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Main Ingredient
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Flash paper is a form of nitrocellulose, a compound found in gunpowder. As such, special care is required when handling the material.
Common Usage
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Stage magicians often use flash paper during their acts. The paper is used as a distraction during unrelated tricks. Or, when mixed with a quick hand, flash paper is used to make items vanish.
Alternatives
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As it requires less heat, flash cotton can be used in place of paper, making for a safer method of fire magic. A spark is all it takes to ignite the cotton.
Fun Facts
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Flash paper gained renewed prominence when it was used on the American television sitcom "How I Met Your Mother" by actor and magic fan Neil Patrick Harris.
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