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Hand Stick by Peter Turner

Created by: Peter Turner

The 'Hand Stick' trick is part of Peter Turner's 'How To Control Minds' kit, a collection of propless mentalism and pseudo-hypnosis routines. In this trick, the performer creates the illusion of controlling a spectator's mind by making their hand 'stick' to an object or surface, as if under hypnotic influence. The effect is a powerful demonstration of mind control, leaving the spectator amazed at their inability to move their hand freely. This is ideal for close-up or parlour magic settings, blending mentalism with psychological illusion. Buyers should note that the trick requires no physical gimmicks, relying entirely on psychological techniques and performance skills.

Key features

  • Propless mentalism—no physical gimmicks needed

  • Beginner-friendly with detailed tutorials

  • Part of a larger kit with 10 routines

  • Blends psychological techniques with performance

Pros

  • Strong, memorable effect for spectators

  • Beginner-friendly with clear instruction

  • Versatile for close-up or parlour settings

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the psychological techniques

  • Part of a larger, expensive kit ($150)

Effect

The Hand Stick trick creates the illusion that a spectator's hand becomes stuck to a surface, as if controlled by the performer. The spectator tries to lift their hand but finds it impossible, as if an unseen force holds it down. The performer then releases the "control," allowing the spectator to move freely again. This creates a strong impression of mind control or hypnotic influence.

Full details

The Hand Stick is part of Peter Turner's How To Control Minds kit, which focuses on propless mentalism and pseudo-hypnosis effects. The method relies on psychological principles rather than physical gimmicks, making it easy to perform with no setup. The routine is designed to be repeatable and can be integrated into a larger mentalism act.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for mentalists, street performers, or close-up magicians who want to add a convincing mind control effect to their repertoire. It works well for beginners because it does not require advanced sleight of hand. Performers who enjoy interactive, psychological magic will find this particularly engaging.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Hand Stick is rated as beginner-friendly. The method is straightforward and relies more on presentation than technical skill. However, selling the effect convincingly requires confidence and strong audience management. The included tutorial provides detailed guidance on timing and misdirection.

What magicians say

Fiddlinjonny describes the How To Control Minds kit as "beginner level stuff" but emphasizes that the routines, including Hand Stick, can establish a performer as a strong mentalist. He notes that while the $150 price is high, the value comes from the extensive 15-hour video training. He also highlights the jam sessions with Mark Lemon as particularly useful for refining performance.

The Hand Stick is one of several routines in the kit that create the illusion of mind control, making it a compelling addition for performers interested in psychological magic.

What people are saying about Hand Stick

fiddlinjonny says...

The Hand Stick routine sounds just like what it says—you make someone's hand stick to an object, creating a powerful illusion of control. It's beginner-friendly and part of a kit that establishes you as a strong mentalist.

Review videos