Sleightful logoSleightful

Zigzag Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hansen Chien

Created by: Nicholas Lawrence, Hansen Chien

The Zigzag Key is a versatile close-up magic trick that allows performers to execute a variety of effects with a single gimmicked key. The primary effect involves the key visibly penetrating and restoring a bill or piece of paper, with additional routines including a vanishing key, zigzag illusion, and signed coin to anywhere. This self-contained gimmick requires no additional setup, making it ideal for impromptu performances. The key is designed to look and feel like a normal key, ensuring it can be handed out for examination without suspicion.

Key features

  • Enables multiple effects with a single gimmick

  • High-quality, durable metal construction

  • Self-contained, requiring no additional setup

  • Includes a detailed hour-long tutorial by Nicholas Lawrence

  • Designed for everyday carry (EDC), making it always performance-ready

Pros

  • Versatile, allowing for seven different effects

  • High-quality build designed to last a lifetime

  • No need for prepped bills or refills

  • Clear and practical tutorial included

  • Can be performed impromptu with borrowed items

Cons

  • Requires practice to perform smoothly, especially for beginners

  • Minor issue with internal foam peeling after extended use

  • Angle sensitive; cannot be performed surrounded

  • Priced at $99.95, which may be steep for some

Effect

The Zigzag Key is a visual illusion where a key appears to bend and restore. The magician holds the key at the fingertips, and the bottom half moves to one side while the top remains in place. The key then snaps back to its original position, appearing completely normal. This effect resembles the classic Zigzag Lady illusion but adapted for a key.

Full details

The Zigzag Key is part of the Swiss Key gimmick, which allows multiple effects with a single device. The key is made of high-quality metal and looks like a normal key, making it easy to carry and use in everyday situations. The gimmick is self-contained, requiring no additional setup.

The effect is taught in the Swiss Key tutorial, which includes multiple routines. The Zigzag Key is one of seven effects possible with the gimmick. The tutorial, taught by Nicholas Lawrence, provides clear instructions on performing the illusion smoothly.

Who should consider the trick

The Zigzag Key is ideal for magicians who enjoy visual, interactive magic. It works well in close-up settings, whether formal or casual. Performers who like impromptu effects will appreciate its versatility.

Those who already own the Swiss Key gimmick will find this an additional routine to expand their repertoire. It is also suitable for magicians who enjoy key-based magic and want a deceptive, self-working illusion.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Zigzag Key is beginner-friendly but requires practice to perform smoothly. The gimmick does most of the work, but timing and misdirection are key.

Fiddlin' Johnny notes that while the effect is easy to understand, performing it convincingly takes practice. He recommends practicing in front of a mirror to refine the choreography.

Roo mentions that the effect is straightforward but benefits from rehearsal to ensure a clean visual. The tutorial provides detailed guidance, making it accessible even for newer magicians.

What magicians say

Fiddlin' Johnny praises the Swiss Key gimmick, calling it "high quality and durable." He highlights the Zigzag Key as a creative adaptation of the classic Zigzag Lady illusion. He notes that while the effect is simple, performing it well requires practice.

Roo describes the Zigzag Key as "really fun" and a clever use of the gimmick. He appreciates the visual nature of the effect and its deceptive qualities. He calls the Swiss Key "the coolest key gimmick" he has seen, comparing it to a "James Bond gadget."

Both reviewers emphasize the versatility of the Swiss Key gimmick, with the Zigzag Key being a standout routine among the included effects.

What people are saying about Zigzag Key

fiddlinjonny says...

Swiss Key is a high-quality and durable gimmick that enables magicians to perform a range of effects, including bill penetrations, vanishing keys, and more, all with a single device. [...] It's a worthwhile investment for its durability and the breadth of magic it can perform.

RoosReviews says...

Swiss Key is the coolest key gimmick I've ever seen, offering seven different effects with a self-contained, high-quality metal gimmick. [...] It's Batman's utility tool for key magic, highly recommended for impromptu, visual, and interactive magic.

Review videos