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Stretcher by Jay Sankey

Created by: Jay Sankey

Stretcher is a close-up magic trick created by Jay Sankey, where a standard soda can appears to visually stretch and change its dimensions in an impossible way right in the spectator's hands. This effect is part of the 'can trilogy' and engages multiple senses—sight, sound, and touch—to create a powerful, organic moment of astonishment using an everyday object, making it ideal for impromptu performances in casual settings like bars, parties, or close-up gigs.

Key features

  • Uses a standard soda can for an organic, prop-light approach

  • Engages multiple senses (sight, sound, touch) for heightened impact

  • Part of a sequenceable 'can trilogy' for extended routines

  • Suitable for impromptu close-up magic in various settings

  • Focuses on visual transformation without complex gimmicks

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible-looking effect

  • Uses everyday objects for easy reset and organic feel

  • Can be combined with other can tricks for a powerful routine

  • Engages spectators through multi-sensory experience

Cons

  • May require practice to perform smoothly with the can

  • Limited to environments where a soda can is appropriate

Effect

The Stretcher magic trick uses a standard soda can. The magician shows the can to be normal. The magician then manipulates the can. The can appears to change its physical dimensions. It looks like the can stretches or shrinks in the spectator's hands. This creates a surprising visual and tactile experience.

Full details

Stretcher is a trick created by Jay Sankey. It is part of a sequence of effects known as the can trilogy. The routine uses a single, unprepared soda can. The method does not require complex gimmicks. The trick is designed to be performed with an everyday object. This makes the magic seem more organic and impossible. The effect plays with the audience's sense of touch and sight. The can is handled by the spectator, which makes the illusion stronger.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform close-up magic should consider Stretcher. It is good for performers who use everyday objects in their sets. This trick fits well for magicians who want to create a sequence of effects with one prop. It is suitable for those who value organic and impactful magic over complex apparatus. Performers looking for a visual and tactile trick will find it useful.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires practice to perform smoothly. The method is not based on difficult sleight of hand. The learning process focuses on handling the can correctly. A magician with basic skills can learn this trick. The performance relies on timing and audience management. With dedicated practice, the trick becomes easy to execute.

What magicians say

Beau Cremer includes Stretcher in his personal toolkit. He uses it as part of his can trilogy. Cremer states that these routines "engage multiple senses—sound, sight, and touch—to create a powerful, believable reality for the spectator." He champions a philosophy of prop-light magic. This trick supports that approach by using a simple object for a strong effect.

What people are saying about Stretcher

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Jay Sankey’s Stretcher is an effect that plays with the can's dimensions, engaging multiple senses—sound, sight, and touch—to create a powerful, believable reality for the spectator.

Tutorial videos