How to Do Close Up Magic Tricks

Close-up magic is incredibly versatile. It can be used for "walk around" performances at parties and events, in street performances and for impromptu personal effects. When people meet magicians, they want to see magic. Even the biggest stage magicians are expected by the public to be able to perform close-up miracles of magic. Many feel that close-up magic tricks are the foundation of all magic skills.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Master sleight of hand. Do not merely study or learn sleight of hand; it must be mastered because it is the foundation of close-up magic tricks. Many magicians choose to concentrate on either sleight of hand with playing cards or coins. Close-up magic is not limited to these two areas, though.

2. Carry one or two small items for performing at all times. Close-up magic tricks can be performed with common objects such as keys, coins, rubber bands, playing cards and many more items so this is not the inconvenience it may initially appear to be.

3. Perform often. True progress can only be forged through the fires of performances before actual audiences.

4. Improve interpersonal skills. The real magic of magic is not in the trick itself but in the experience. The magician will create the experience with his actions and words.

5. Study and learn from each performance. The key to improvement is the honest and thorough examination of past performance with the intention of identifying weak areas.

6. Improvise with objects at hand to stimulate creativity.

Resources

• Visit the online home of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.