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Hand Wash by John Carey

Created by: John Carey

The 'Hand Wash' is a deceptive close-up coin magic technique used within John Carey's 'Triple Spellbound Coins to Purse' routine. Spectators witness coins seemingly transform, vanish, and reappear inside a small purse, with the 'Hand Wash' serving as a subtle misdirection move to conceal the secret actions. The routine combines classic coin magic techniques with engaging presentation, making it ideal for close-up performances in restaurants, bars, or corporate events. Buyers should note that the trick requires a gaff coin (copper-silver contrast recommended) and familiarity with foundational coin sleights.

Key features

  • Combines Spellbound coin magic with a deceptive purse routine

  • Relies on misdirection and audience perception

  • Requires a gaff coin (copper-silver contrast for visual impact)

  • Incorporates classic techniques like Bobo's Coin Switch and Ramsey Subtlety

  • Ideal for close-up performances and icebreaker routines

Pros

  • Highly visual and engaging for audiences

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Strong emphasis on presentation and misdirection

  • Reset is quick and practical for repeated performances

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the sleights and timing

  • Gaff coin may need customization for optimal contrast

  • Not suitable for large stage performances

Effect

The Hand Wash is a deceptive sleight used in coin magic to misdirect the audience while secretly disposing of or concealing a coin. It appears as a casual hand gesture, often resembling a washing or rubbing motion, making it seem like the magician is simply adjusting their hands. The audience perceives this as an innocent movement, unaware that it hides a crucial moment in the trick.

Full Details

The Hand Wash is a subtle technique that disguises the handling of a coin. It involves a smooth, natural hand motion—typically a rubbing or washing gesture—that conceals the transfer or concealment of a coin. This sleight is often used in routines where multiple vanishes or changes occur, as it provides a convincing way to dispose of a coin without drawing suspicion.

John Carey references the Hand Wash in his "Triple Spellbound Coins to Purse" routine, where it helps transition between phases of the trick. He learned it from John Bannon’s Impossibilia, highlighting its usefulness in maintaining deception.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Hand Wash is ideal for magicians who perform coin magic, especially those who work with routines involving vanishes, switches, or multiple coin transformations. It suits performers who value smooth misdirection and natural handling over flashy moves.

Difficulty

The Hand Wash is not technically demanding but requires practice to make the motion look natural. Timing and misdirection are key—if performed too stiffly or obviously, it can arouse suspicion. Magicians with experience in basic sleight-of-hand will find it easier to integrate into their routines.

What Magicians Say

John Carey describes the Hand Wash as a "nice action" that helps maintain deception in his routine. He emphasizes its role in misdirection, stating:

"We do a little hand wash... it's a nice action, thumbs on top, fingers underneath, and just come down and do that."

He also notes that combining it with other techniques, like the Ramsey Subtlety and Skinner’s Spider Grip Vanish, enhances the overall illusion. The Hand Wash is particularly effective when paired with strong audience engagement, ensuring that spectators focus on the presentation rather than the mechanics.

For magicians looking to refine their coin work, the Hand Wash is a valuable addition to their repertoire, offering a simple yet powerful way to maintain deception.

What people are saying about Hand Wash

John Carey says...

The 'Hand Wash' is a beautiful misdirection tool—learned from John Bannon's *Impossibilia*. It gives your dirty hand something to do while the magic happens elsewhere.

Tutorial videos