Classic Palm by David Roth and Ed Marlo

Created by: David Roth, Ed Marlo

The Classic Palm is a foundational sleight in close-up magic, primarily used with coins or cards, where the magician secretly conceals an object in the palm of the hand while keeping the hand appearing empty and natural. This technique is essential for vanishes, switches, and other deceptive effects, making it a staple in coin magic, card magic, and general manipulation. Buyers should note that mastering the Classic Palm requires practice to develop finger dexterity and misdirection skills, and it can be adapted for various objects beyond coins and cards, such as small items in parlour or stage magic. It is often taught in tutorials and is a key component in routines by masters like David Roth for coin effects or in card magic by figures like Ed Marlo.

Key features

Fundamental sleight for vanishes and switches in close-up magic
Requires practice for proper finger positioning and misdirection
Versatile and can be used with coins, cards, or other small objects
Often integrated into more complex routines and effects
Emphasizes natural hand movement and cover to avoid detection

Pros

Highly deceptive when mastered, creating strong visual illusions
Builds foundational skills that apply to many other magic techniques
Can be performed impromptu with common objects, no gimmicks needed
Widely taught and supported by numerous resources and tutorials

Cons

Steep learning curve; requires significant practice to execute smoothly
May be challenging for individuals with smaller hands or less dexterity
If performed poorly, can be easily detected by observant spectators

Effect

The Classic Palm makes a coin or other small object vanish completely from the hand. The hand appears empty and natural, with no visible sign of concealment. The object can then be reproduced from a different location or from thin air.

Full details

The Classic Palm is a foundational sleight in magic. It involves secretly holding an object, such as a coin, in the center of the palm while keeping the hand relaxed and open. The fingers remain slightly curled to provide natural cover. This technique is used in many routines, including vanishes, switches, and productions. David Roth, a master coin magician, frequently used the Classic Palm in his celebrated routines, such as the coin through glass effect. Proper execution requires attention to hand positioning and misdirection.

Who should consider the trick

The Classic Palm is essential for any magician working with coins or small objects. Beginners should learn it as a core skill. Advanced performers use it as a building block for more complex routines. Magicians who prefer impromptu magic, as Craig Petty recommends, will find the Classic Palm invaluable because it requires no gimmicks.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Difficulty is subjective and depends on hand size and practice. Beau Creer notes that palming while holding something at the fingertips is a common challenge. Biz from Big Blind Media states that the Classic Palm is foundational but its difficulty can change based on context and cover. Craig Petty advises practicing with purpose, not just repetition, to master the move. Consistent practice is needed to make the hand look natural and relaxed.

What magicians say

Beau Creer explains that the Classic Palm is a fundamental skill for coin magic, detailing how to transfer a coin from a finger palm to a classic palm. He emphasizes that David Roth created effects using this technique. Biz considers the Classic Palm foundational for vanishes and switches, noting that palming from the center of the deck can be easier due to increased cover. Craig Petty offers tips to avoid common mistakes with the Classic Palm and stresses its importance for impromptu performances. He also highlights that professionals respect all levels of practice, encouraging magicians to learn core skills like the Classic Palm.

What people are saying about Classic Palm

BigBlindMedia says...

Classic Palm is considered foundational, used for various vanishes and switches. Biz notes that palming from the center of the deck is surprisingly easier than from the second position due to increased cover.

magic-tv (Craig Petty) says...

Craig provides detailed tips on improving the Classic Palm technique, offering advice to avoid common mistakes and enhance performance.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Beau dedicates significant time to explaining the classic palm, a fundamental skill for coin magic. He details how to transfer the coin from a finger palm to a classic palm, addressing the common difficulty of palming while holding something at the fingertips.

oscar says...

Includes techniques like retention vanish and false transfer, with clear step-by-step instructions for learning visual coin tricks that build on foundational moves like the Classic Palm.