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Buying Magic

At some point, you will end up buying magical items, whether that be tricks, books or videos, probably from Magic Dealers, so this page offers a few hints and tips to make sure that you buy wisely.

Firstly, it is important to realise that, when you buy a magic trick, you are often paying for the secret. This is why some magic tricks seem expensive when you look at the props you receive. (This also touches on the subject of Ethics.)

Secondly, however much you like seeing a new magic trick demonstrated, do bear in mind, before you buy it, questions such as:

• Does this effect suit my style and performing character, and if not, could I alter the presentation so that it does?
• Does it look like it could be performed in situations that would be appropriate to me (e.g. does the effect have to be performed at a table whereas you perform standing up)?
• Is it too similar to another trick that I already perform and, if so, should I stop performing the existing trick (since you shouldn't perform too many tricks that are similar to each other in one routine or act)?

Thirdly, do consider buying some of the classic books on magic, since they will typically offer much better value in the long run than spending the equivalent money on one or two tricks.

Fourthly, when you do buy a magic trick, try to read the instructions with a view to understanding and learning how to perform the trick, but do try to ignore any presentation and patter that is supplied with the trick. If you can provide your own presentation and patter, then you can be sure that nobody else will be performing that trick quite like you do.

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