How to Buy Magic Show Props

Whether you're one of millions of Harry Potter fans, or an actual old-school magician (or would-be magician) you may be looking for the essentials for an act, props. Unfortunately, there's no Magics 'R Us chain store in malls across the country, so buying magic props is a little more complicated. But, with a little research, you should be able to find what you're looking for.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Take a look down Main Street. In the old days, aspiring magicians bought their wares in the eclectic "curiosity shops" located in the center of small towns. Now that digital media has taken hold, magic is assumedly a smaller business, and props have become harder to find. Also, the shops themselves, that sold a wide variety of goods, are disappearing, but many of them, bolstered by community support, are still there.
2. Check out specialty shops. Stores dedicated to magic are also still in existence. Stores like Williams Magic and Novelties in Arizona may be able to ship magic props to you. Williams, which maintains a website, can also be toured online. It's a great place to buy an assortment of magical goods.
3. Check out specialty websites. A lot of commerce is done on the Internet these days, and the sale of magic props, a very eclectic business, seems destined to be moved online, where buyers and sellers can find each other with ease. Check out sites online (see Resources below) to find a wide variety of magic props that can be shipped to your door.
4. Try eBay. The trading web giant has facilitated millions of sales of everything from apples to zithers, and magic props can be found on eBay as well. On eBay, you have a chance of buying a collection from a retiring magician, who may include vital information with his/her sale that you wouldn't get elsewhere. Browse eBay's categorized inventory for magic props and see what you can find.
5. Write down a list of what you have found, what you need, and how much you're willing to pay for it. Select the best bargains from your list. Contact sellers and arrange for payment and shipping. Then wait for your new props to come to you.