Rubbermaid by Danny Garcia and Kyle Purnell

Created by: Danny Garcia, Kyle Purnell

Rubbermaid is a visually stunning close-up magic trick where a borrowed ring appears to magically penetrate and knot onto a rubber band. The routine begins with the ring placed on the performer's finger, followed by a series of precise manipulations that create the illusion of the ring passing through the band. The climax involves the ring seemingly becoming permanently knotted on the band, only to be revealed as a deceptive souvenir. This trick is perfect for close-up performances, blending impossibility with aesthetic appeal.

Key features

  • Requires a borrowed ring and a rubber band, making it highly accessible.

  • Emphasizes visual progression and framing for maximum impact.

  • Involves meticulous finger movements and quick transitions.

  • Recommended to use a man's wedding band for the final phase to avoid visual distractions.

  • Combines elements from Russ Derr's 'Pinnacle' and Danny Garcia's 'Rubbermaid' routines.

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible-looking effect.

  • Uses everyday objects, enhancing the trick's organic feel.

  • Adaptable to the performer's style and audience.

  • Ends with a memorable souvenir for the spectator.

Cons

  • Requires precise finger movements and practice to master.

  • May be challenging to perform smoothly without sufficient rehearsal.

Effect

The Rubbermaid trick makes a borrowed ring visually penetrate a rubber band in an impossible way. The ring appears to pass through the band multiple times before becoming permanently knotted. The final phase leaves the ring visibly trapped on the band, creating a strong magical moment.

Full Details

Kyle Purnell's Rubbermaid routine combines elements from Russ Derr's "Pinnacle" and Danny Garcia's original "Rubbermaid." Purnell focuses on framing the effect clearly for spectators, ensuring visual progression. Key techniques include:

  • Initial Setup: Placing the ring on the first knuckle of the ring finger with the band on top.
  • "Straight In" Movement: Inserting the band straight rather than using a hooking motion.
  • "Hidden Knot": A concealed knot that enhances the illusion before the final reveal.
  • Tension Release: Releasing tension to create the visual effect of the ring popping through.

Purnell recommends using a man’s wedding band for the final phase, as it avoids visual distractions like diamonds.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine suits magicians who perform close-up magic and want a visually strong, borrowed-object effect. It works well for those comfortable with precise finger movements and quick transitions.

Difficulty

The trick requires meticulous practice due to intricate finger work. Purnell notes that the routine involves multiple precise steps, making it challenging for beginners. However, the angles are forgiving, and the effect is worth the effort.

What Magicians Say

Kyle Purnell emphasizes the importance of framing and visual progression: "I wanted to take the framing of the Rubbermaid routine and combine it with the impossibility of the Pinnacle routine." He also highlights the need for speed in performance: "You don’t want to belabor it—doing it once or twice clearly shows you could do it nine times."

The routine is praised for its deceptive displays and strong magical moments, making it a favorite among magicians who value visual impact.

What people are saying about Rubbermaid

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Kyle Purnell's routine is a sophisticated and visually compelling take on a classic effect, blending the framing of Danny Garcia's 'Rubbermaid' with the impossibility of Russ Derr's 'Pinnacle'.

Tutorial videos