Sword Basket Pen Holder by Max Gross and Hocus Pocus
Created by: Max Gross, Hocus Pocus
Where to buy
![]() | Alakazam Magic | Sword Basket Pen Holder by Hocus Pocus | £21.79 | 🇬🇧 Shop |
![]() | Magicbox | Sword Basket Pen Holder by Hocus Pocus | £22.20 | 🇬🇧 Shop |
Key features
Dual functionality as a magic prop and pen holder
Inspired by the classic sword basket illusion
Includes a sentimental 'PG' marking in honor of the creator's father
Suitable for casual magic performances or as a decorative piece
Compact size makes it perfect for desk display
Pros
Unique combination of magic and practicality
Sentimental value adds depth to the prop
Great conversation starter
Compact and visually appealing
Cons
Not a traditional magic trick with a performance method
Limited to being a novelty item for some magicians
Effect
The Sword Basket Pen Holder recreates the classic sword basket illusion in miniature form. The audience sees a small basket with pens seemingly passing straight through it, just like swords would in the traditional stage illusion. The pens slide into the holder, appearing to defy logic as they go through the sides of the basket.
Full Details
The Sword Basket Pen Holder is both a functional desk accessory and a magic-themed conversation piece. It is a tribute to the classic sword basket illusion, where objects appear to penetrate a container without harming its contents. This version replaces swords with pens, making it practical for everyday use.
A small "PG" is engraved at the bottom as a personal touch, honoring the creator's father, Paul Gross, who loved the original illusion. The holder is designed to fit standard-sized pens, allowing them to slide through the basket in a visually impossible way.
Who Should Consider the Trick
This item is ideal for magicians who appreciate classic illusions and want a subtle way to incorporate magic into their workspace. It works well as a conversation starter in an office or home setting. Those who enjoy sentimental or collector’s items may also appreciate the personal backstory behind the design.
Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform
No sleight of hand or advanced technique is required. The effect is self-working, relying on the clever construction of the pen holder. Users simply place the pens into the holder, and the illusion happens automatically.
What Magicians Say
SaturnMagicShop describes it as "the perfect pen holder for your desk," emphasizing its sentimental value and dual function as a magic prop. They highlight the personal touch of the "PG" engraving, saying, "my dad be with you at all times."
ItsAllThingsMagic calls it a "nostalgic nod" to Paul Gross and praises it as a fun, affordable item. They note that it’s sold out in many places, suggesting high demand among magicians.
Both reviewers agree that the Sword Basket Pen Holder is a charming and practical way to bring a touch of magic into everyday life.
What people are saying about Sword Basket Pen Holder
itsallthingsmagic says...
this is a little nod to him there's even a little PG stamp on the bottom there which is cool little nod to him [...] it's just a cool look uh of the pins going through the basket so for your office just for a nice little piece to have a little magic theme piece
SaturnMagicShop says...
we made ourself our own little sword basket with table and uh the pens go right on through and is the perfect pen holder for your desk [...] my dad be with you at all times
Review videos
Best Magic Tricks This Week! (01/29/2025)
itsallthingsmagic mentioned this magic trick in this video.
Promotional videos
Saturn Magic - Sword Basket Pen Holder by Hocus Pocus
SaturnMagicShop mentioned this magic trick in this video.