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Bending And Removing Fingers

The 'Bending And Removing Fingers' trick is a captivating close-up magic routine where the magician visually bends, removes, and restores their fingers in impossible ways. Spectators witness the illusion of fingers being detached, bent at unnatural angles, or even vanishing entirely, only to be seamlessly restored. This trick is perfect for casual performances, especially for beginners, as it requires minimal sleight of hand and can be learned quickly. The effects are highly visual and work well in person or on camera, though some angles may require practice to perfect. Ideal for impressing friends, family, or children, this trick offers a fun and interactive way to explore hand illusions.

Key features

  • Beginner-friendly with minimal sleight of hand

  • Highly visual and interactive

  • Works well in person and on camera

  • Includes multiple finger-based illusions (bending, removing, restoring)

  • Angle-sensitive but effective with practice

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • No props required—uses only your hands

  • Great for casual or impromptu performances

  • Engaging and visually striking effects

Cons

  • Some tricks are angle-sensitive

  • May require practice to perfect the illusion

Effect

The magician appears to bend, remove, and restore fingers in impossible ways. The audience sees fingers twist unnaturally, vanish, or even detach before being put back in place. Some versions include producing a coin from an empty hand or making a hand disappear behind the arm. The effects are visual and often exaggerated for comedic or shocking impact.

Full details

The trick involves a series of optical illusions using hand positioning and misdirection. Some methods rely on hiding fingers behind others, while others use quick movements to simulate bending or removal. The coin production trick uses angle-sensitive placement to make it seem like the coin appears from nowhere. Most versions require no gimmicks, just proper hand coordination.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for beginners or performers who want quick, visual effects with minimal setup. It works well for casual settings, street magic, or entertaining children. Since many variations don’t require sleight of hand, they are accessible to new magicians. Those who enjoy physical comedy will find the exaggerated movements particularly effective.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Most versions are easy to learn, with some tricks achievable in under a minute of practice. However, angle management is crucial—some illusions only work from specific viewpoints. The finger-bending effects require smooth, natural movements to sell the illusion. The coin production trick is slightly more advanced due to timing and angle sensitivity. Overall, the difficulty is low, making it a good starting point for new performers.

What magicians say

Oscar Owen describes these tricks as "simple and fun," emphasizing that they require no sleight of hand. He notes that some effects, like the finger removal, work best when performed quickly to maintain the illusion. The coin production is highlighted as angle-sensitive but effective when done correctly. Many of these tricks are recommended for beginners due to their visual impact and ease of learning.

What people are saying about Bending And Removing Fingers

Oscar Owen says...

This trick is easy to learn, it's the same effects that Dynamo and David Blaine often do, and there's literally no sleight of hand—meaning it's perfect for beginners.

Tutorial videos