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Hand Vanish by Oscar Owen

Created by: Oscar Owen

The 'Hand Vanish' is a close-up magic trick where the magician visually bends, removes, and restores fingers, vanishes their hand behind their arm, and even produces a coin from thin air. 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 visually striking and work well in person or on camera, though some tricks are angle-sensitive. Ideal for impressing friends, family, or children with seemingly impossible finger manipulations and vanishes.

Key features

  • Beginner-friendly with minimal sleight of hand

  • Angle-sensitive tricks require practice for optimal performance

  • Great for casual and close-up performances

  • Includes multiple effects: finger bending, vanishes, and coin production

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Visually impressive effects

  • No special props required

  • Great for beginners and casual performers

Cons

  • Some tricks are angle-sensitive

  • May require practice to perfect timing and angles

Effect

The Hand Vanish trick makes it appear as though the magician removes a finger or even an entire hand, only to restore it moments later. The audience sees the finger bend unnaturally, detach from the hand, or vanish completely before returning to its normal position. Some variations include producing a coin from an empty hand or making a thumb disappear and reappear.

Full details

The Hand Vanish involves a mix of optical illusions, finger positioning, and misdirection. Some versions require precise angles to maintain the illusion, while others rely on quick hand movements. The trick can be performed with any finger, though the little finger and thumb are common choices due to their flexibility. Some methods involve hiding a finger behind another, while others use the opposite hand to simulate removal.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for beginners because it requires minimal sleight of hand. It works well for casual performances, especially for children or small groups. Magicians who enjoy visual, quick-impact tricks will find it useful. Since some versions are angle-sensitive, performers should practice in front of a mirror before performing live.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Most Hand Vanish variations are easy to learn, with some achievable in under a minute. The difficulty varies slightly depending on the method. For example, removing a finger by bending it under another is simpler than vanishing an entire hand behind the arm. The key challenge is maintaining the right angles to prevent the audience from seeing the hidden finger.

What magicians say

Oscar Owen describes the Hand Vanish as "a very simple and fun trick which is great to do to impress children." He notes that some versions, like the coin production, require careful angle management but can still be effective in person and on camera. The finger removal effects are highlighted as beginner-friendly, with clear step-by-step instructions.

The trick is praised for its visual impact, with one variation described as "one of my favorite finger removing effects." While some methods are angle-sensitive, the overall consensus is that the Hand Vanish is accessible and entertaining for performers of all skill levels.

What people are saying about Hand Vanish

Oscar Owen says...

The magician visually bends his finger, removes it, and then puts it back on—hands are empty, and then he produces a coin. [...] This trick is easy to learn, perfect for beginners, and the same effects that Dynamo and David Blaine often do.

Tutorial videos