Bolled Up by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

Bolled Up is a close-up magic trick that uses colored paper balls to perform a sponge-ball-style routine, culminating in a 'magician in trouble' moment where a vanished ball appears inside a spectator's hand. The trick is versatile, working in kid shows, corporate events, and close-up settings, offering a visual and interactive experience that feels more organic than traditional sponge balls.

Key features

Uses colored paper balls for a more organic feel than sponge balls
Versatile performance options suitable for various audiences
Strong climax with the 'magician in trouble' moment
Easy to learn and perform
Works universally across different performance settings

Pros

Visual and interactive
Strong climax that surprises spectators
Versatile for different performance settings
More organic feel than traditional sponge balls

Cons

May require practice to perfect the climax moment
Spectators may want to examine the paper balls closely

Effect

In Bolled Up, the magician uses colored paper balls instead of traditional sponge balls. The routine involves visually transposing the balls between hands, making them vanish and reappear in unexpected ways. The climax occurs when a spectator tightly holds one ball, only to open their hand and discover both balls inside—creating a strong "magician in trouble" moment.

Full Details

Bolled Up is a modern take on classic sponge ball routines, replacing sponge balls with colored paper for a more organic and visually engaging effect. The routine includes multiple phases:

Transpositions: The balls visually jump from one hand to another.
Vanishes and Appearances: The balls vanish and reappear in impossible locations.
Spectator Interaction: A spectator holds one ball tightly, only to find both balls in their hand at the end.

The method is simple but deceptive, making it accessible while maintaining strong magical impact.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Close-up performers looking for a fresh alternative to sponge balls.
Family and kid show magicians who want a visual, interactive routine.
Corporate entertainers needing a quick, engaging piece that works in various settings.

Difficulty

Bolled Up is easy to learn but requires smooth handling for maximum effect. The routine relies more on presentation than complex sleight of hand, making it suitable for beginners and experienced performers alike.

What Magicians Say

Craig Petty, the creator, describes Bolled Up as a versatile routine that works across different performance environments. He notes:

"The climax is stronger than it should be because it's a very easy thing to do, but it's such a strong moment... It really is visual and something that works across all types of people."

The use of paper instead of sponge balls adds a natural feel, making the trick more relatable to audiences. The final revelation—where a vanished ball appears inside a spectator’s hand—is particularly praised for its impact.

For magicians seeking a practical, visual, and interactive routine, Bolled Up offers a compelling option.

What people are saying about Bolled Up

magic-tv says...

Paper feels more organic than sponge balls, and the climax is stronger than expected for such a simple method.