Cards, Tricks, and Magic Supplies

Magic has been part of the human experience since the human mind first became capable of abstract thought. Throughout most of our history magic was believed to stem from powers of the supernatural. Magical rites are prevalent in many ancient, and not-so-ancient, religious ceremonies and often contain an element of otherworldliness.

In today’s world of science and technology, the idea of magic is somewhat absurd to most people; at least as far as mystical powers are concerned. Magic is understood to be nothing more than a trick, or sleight of hand. When audience members watch a magic show, they know that what they’re seeing is nothing more than a cleverly executed illusion. However, this doesn’t mean that it can’t be entertaining.

A magician’s supplies will depend on the type of illusion he or she is trying to perform. “Magic” cards are a popular prop for many magicians. There are literally hundreds, if not thousands of tricks that can be performed with a simple deck of playing cards. While a magic store might seem the obvious place to buy magic cards, truth be told, these playing cards can be purchased nearly anywhere. However, for other magic supplies the magic shop is the place to go.

Magicians supplies can include a host of items, including magic candles. Candles and magic have been connected for centuries. Hoodoo practitioners and other folk magicians use candles for a number of reasons, including spell casting and increasing the magical ambience of the moment. The color of the candle being burned has a unique significance for the magician. Burning a white candle, for instance, is supposed to bring about spiritual blessings and purity. Red candles are often used for casting love spells. Combining colors can also have effects; as Red and black candles are often used for removing a love spell.

Many magic companies sell pre-packaged assortments of tricks and illusions called magic kits. Some of these kits are intended for beginning magic students, and contain easy to learn illusions. These often include classics such as the linking rings, cup and ball, and the occasional rope trick. More advanced kits sometimes include an illusion box, complete with false doors, as well as a host of other more complicated tricks. There are also kits that are designed for a specific feat. Juggling kits, for instance, come with a variety of juggling items such as balls, pins and bean bags.

A traditional tool of the magician/sorcerer, the magic wand is an essential part of performing magic. The wand has a specific function in most illusions, whether you believe in magic or not. It is most often used to draw the eye of the audience away from the sleight of hand occurring before them. However, for believers, the wand is source of a magician’s power. For these people, the choice of a wand is a very personal decision and isn’t taken lightly. Many local and online magic outlets carry a variety of different wands, from the classic black stick with white tip, to highly ornate varieties made from real tree branches.

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