Alis Buttons by Leo Smers

Created by: Leo Smers

Alis Buttons by Leo Smers is a close-up magic trick that involves the magical appearance, disappearance, and transposition of buttons, which can also be performed with coins and a ribbon. The trick utilizes precision-engineered buttons that are well-machined and of high quality, making it difficult for spectators to spot any gimmicks. The routine involves traditional coin magic moves, making it suitable for magicians who enjoy sleight of hand and coin magic. The buttons can be used to perform a variety of effects, similar to those achievable with Chinese coins and a ribbon, but with a unique twist due to the button design.

Key features

Precision-engineered buttons for a high-quality look and feel
Utilizes traditional coin magic moves
Suitable for close-up magic performances
Can be performed with coins and a ribbon as an alternative
Requires sleight of hand skills

Pros

High-quality, well-machined buttons
Unique twist on traditional coin magic
Versatile in performance options

Cons

May not offer significant advantages over traditional coin magic methods
Requires sleight of hand skills, not suitable for beginners
Can be replicated with Chinese coins and a ribbon

Effect

Alis Buttons by Leo Smers is a coin magic routine that uses specially designed buttons instead of traditional coins. The effect involves making buttons vanish, reappear, and travel impossibly between the performer's hands or into a small purse. The routine includes classic coin sleights but presents them in a fresh way by using buttons, which adds a unique visual element.

Full Details

The trick includes precision-engineered buttons that resemble ornate coins with holes in the center. These buttons are designed to facilitate traditional coin moves while maintaining a clean appearance. The routine involves:

Vanishing and reappearing buttons.
Transpositions between hands.
A final load into a small purse or container.

The method relies on sleight of hand rather than self-working gimmicks, making it suitable for performers comfortable with coin magic techniques.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Alis Buttons is best suited for:

Coin magicians looking for a fresh take on classic routines.
Performers who enjoy prop-based magic with a unique aesthetic.
Those comfortable with sleight of hand, as the trick requires practice to execute smoothly.

Difficulty

The trick is intermediate-level, requiring familiarity with coin sleights such as vanishes, palms, and transfers. While not self-working, the moves are well within reach for magicians with some coin magic experience.

What Magicians Say

Mark Travis Hony of Saturn Magic reviewed Alis Buttons and noted:

"They're precision-engineered buttons... very good quality... but it's really doing nothing that a coin and a turtle won't do."

He acknowledges the high-quality craftsmanship but suggests that the routine could be replicated with traditional Chinese coins and a ribbon. However, he also highlights that the unique button design offers a different presentation for those who want to move away from standard coin magic.

For magicians who enjoy prop-based coin routines and want a visually distinct alternative to traditional coins, Alis Buttons provides a polished and well-made option.

What people are saying about Alis Buttons

Mark Travis Hony says...

Alis Buttons by Leo Smers can be achieved with standard coins and a ribbon. While appreciating the quality of the buttons, I don't see a significant advantage over traditional coin magic methods.