As we’ve already seen, getting things to levitate is always interesting. In this classic magic trick, the item being levitated is a playing card, but not just any card, a card that was apparently chosen at random by someone in the audience.
The deck is then placed into a glass and the correct card just pops right out. But how could the magician know which card would be chosen? They couldn’t prepare for that, or could they?
The Disappearing Matchstick Trick
This is another fun slight of hand trick in which a magician makes a toothpick or matchstick appear and disappear from their hand right in front of your eyes. The stick is held between the thumb and index finger and appears and reappears with the flick of a hand.
This trick is very effective because it makes something appear out of nothing and can also be done anywhere. Also, you can allow the audience to examine your shirtsleeves because they will be clean.
The Secret Behind the Disappearing Matchstick Trick
To make this trick work all you need is either a match or a toothpick and a little glue. You use the glue on the edge of the match and stick it to the side of your thumb next to the nail.
When you want it to disappear simply straighten your fingers and thumb to keep it hidden. To make it reappear you just fold your thumb as if you were holding it. In a pinch, saliva can be used instead of glue, but the toothpick may fly off if the trick is performed too many times.
The Levitating Card Trick – Secret
In this trick the magician really does let the audience member choose whatever card they want; the real secret is to return that card to the deck into the correct position. There is a special card at the end of the pack which is supported by a counterweight.
When the card is turned upside down a small pad with a sticky wax dot makes the whole thing go up and pop out of the deck.
The Can on A Card Trick
This trick is simple but still cool. The magician takes a can and places it on top of a playing card.
Despite all odds and the forces of gravity, the can stays upright on the paper-thin card. Is this magic or just a good balancing act?