How to Perform the Rubber Band Office Magic Trick

Referred to as the Jumping Rubber Band, this simple magic trick is a good one to perform at the office. The trick relies on sleight of hand technique used to manipulate the rubber band and subsequently the perception of the audience. Plenty of practice is required to master the magic trick as one smooth and flawless motion.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a rubber band about 1/4 inch wide that fits comfortably and snugly around the first two fingers of the left hand. Consider using the purple rubber band often used to bundle asparagus spears.

2. Push the rubber band down to the base of the first two fingers. Open the palm and show the onlooker that the rubber band is in tact around the fingers.

3. Stretch the rubber band across the full width of the palm where the fingers join the palm. Bend the finger tips into the palm and catch all four fingertips just under the edge of the rubber band (see Resources below).

4. Open the hand quickly to cause the rubber band to jump to the other two fingers. Use the thumb to stretch the rubber band again over the fingertips and jump it back to the first two fingers.

5. Vary the trick by beginning with the rubber band around one finger and jump it to the other three fingers and vice versa. Practice this trick repeatedly before performing it.

Resources

• A video of the magic rubberband trick