Books and Resources to Start Strong
Understanding magic theory, performance psychology, and business fundamentals will accelerate your success faster than trial and error. These books cover the essential knowledge every professional magician needs, from classic techniques to modern marketing strategies.
Mark Wilson’s Complete Course in Magic by Mark Wilson
This is the standard reference for learning magic fundamentals. It covers card tricks, coin magic, rope illusions, and stage illusions with clear illustrations and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re self-teaching or supplementing formal training, this book provides the technical foundation that separates amateurs from professionals.
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The Royal Road to Card Magic by Juan Tamariz and Jean Hugard
Card magic is one of the most profitable magic specialties because the equipment is inexpensive and versatile. This book teaches advanced card techniques used by professionals worldwide. If you plan to perform at close-up events, corporate gigs, or street performances, mastering card magic directly increases your earning potential.
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Scarne on Card Tricks by John Scarne
Scarne’s work focuses on practical, repeatable card tricks that work in real-world settings. His approach emphasizes entertainment value and audience psychology over pure technique, which matters when you’re being paid to perform rather than impress other magicians.
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The Business of Magic by Bobo and Bamberg
This book addresses the business side that many magicians ignore: pricing your services, booking gigs, managing clients, and building a sustainable income. It includes real examples from working professionals and covers everything from children’s birthday parties to corporate events. Most magic books teach tricks; this teaches how to make money with them.
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Psychological Illusions and Card Magic by Derren Brown
Understanding how audience perception works is more valuable than knowing obscure tricks. This book teaches the psychology behind why illusions fool people and how to use misdirection effectively. It’s particularly useful for developing your own material and understanding why certain tricks work better than others in different settings.
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Equipment You Need
Magic equipment ranges from inexpensive items you can buy anywhere to specialized props that justify their cost through repeated use. Your initial investment depends on your specialty, but most magicians spend between $200 and $800 to start professional performances. You don’t need everything at once—build your kit strategically based on your chosen performance type.
Card Magic Supplies
- Playing cards: Professional magicians use decks designed for manipulation, with precise cuts and finishes. Bicycle and Tally-Ho cards work well for beginners; invest in higher-quality decks as you develop signature tricks.
- Marked decks: Cards with subtle markings that only you can read—essential for certain illusions.
- Forcing decks: Decks that appear normal but are designed so you can force a specific card choice.
- Stripper decks: Cards cut slightly smaller to allow for hidden card retrieval.
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Close-Up Magic Props
- Coin sets: Specially minted coins for coin manipulation and vanishing tricks. Morgan dollars and half-dollars are professional standards.
- Silk scarves: Used in production illusions, color-changing tricks, and rope magic. Buy quality silk from magic suppliers.
- Rope: Cotton or nylon rope in various lengths for cutting, tying, and restoration tricks.
- Cups and balls set: A classic prop worth learning—profitable for street performance and close-up gigs.
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Stage Magic Equipment
- Wand: A professional stage prop—wood or aluminum, 18-20 inches standard length.
- Vanishing cabinet or illusion box: Depends on your act. Basic models cost $300-800; professional illusions run higher.
- Flash paper and flash cotton: Create surprising visual effects. Essential for certain illusions but requires safe handling.
- Portable stage backdrop: If you perform at multiple venues, a collapsible backdrop (6-8 feet) keeps your act professional and creates the right atmosphere.
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Practice and Performance Accessories
- Mirror: For practicing misdirection and hand movements—a full-length mirror is essential.
- Practice mat: Specialized surface for learning card and coin techniques without wear.
- Lighting equipment: Basic portable lights ($40-150) improve visibility at outdoor or poorly-lit venues.
- Sound system: A small Bluetooth speaker ($30-80) works for intimate performances; larger acts need better audio.
- Table and table cover: Professional-quality table cover in black or custom colors—essential for close-up magic where the table is visible.
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Performance Attire
- Magician’s tuxedo or formal wear: Professional appearance matters—budget $100-300 for quality formal clothing.
- Specialized costume: Depends on your character. Some magicians use themed outfits; keep it clean and memorable.
- Pockets and storage: Magicians need specific clothing with secure pockets for props. Tailoring costs $30-60 but is worthwhile.
Storage and Transport
- Magic carrying case or trunk: Protects equipment and keeps you organized. Professional cases run $100-400.
- Organizational pouches: Keep small items organized and accessible during performances.
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What to Buy First vs Later
Most magicians waste money buying everything at once. Build strategically based on your immediate income needs.
- Month 1-2: One quality deck of cards, a coin set, scarves, rope, and a reference book. Total: $80-150. These fundamentals work for 90% of beginner performances.
- Month 3-4: Additional specialized decks (marked, forcing), a better stage wand, and professional table cover. Add another $150-250.
- Month 5-6: Cups and balls set, flash paper/cotton, and improved lighting. Total: $100-200.
- Later: Large stage illusions, custom illusion boxes, and expensive props. Only invest in these after you’ve booked enough gigs to justify the cost and have refined your act.
New vs Used Equipment
Used magic equipment is a double-edged sword. Cards wear out, become dog-eared, and lose the precision needed for tricks. Buying used cards from other magicians means you’re inheriting worn equipment that won’t perform reliably. For cards, coins, and silks—buy new. These items are inexpensive ($5-30 each) and reliability directly affects your reputation.
Where you can save money: larger stage illusions and equipment like cabinets or boxes sometimes sell used through magic forums and websites. Many magicians buy illusions, use them for a few years, then upgrade. A used vanishing cabinet or illusion box in good condition might cost 30-50% less. However, inspect carefully—dents and scratches affect appearance, and mechanical illusions need to function flawlessly. Avoid used rope, scarves, and flash paper. Buy your performance attire new or from quality second-hand clothing sources, not from magicians.
Where to Buy
- Magic supply shops (online and local): Renegade Magic, Penguin Magic, and Murphy’s Magic specialize in professional equipment with accurate descriptions and quality guarantees. Prices are higher than mass-market retailers but justified by expertise and reliable sourcing.
- Magic conventions and trade shows: If you attend events like Magic Live or regional magic conventions, you’ll find vendors with rare items and opportunity to test equipment before buying.
- Facebook groups and forums: Magic communities like the Magic Cafe or specialized Facebook groups sometimes list used equipment. Verify seller reputation before purchasing.
- Local magic shops: Few remain, but if one exists near you, building a relationship with the owner provides advice, testing opportunities, and potential business referrals.
- Direct from magicians: Established magicians sometimes sell their own prop designs. Quality varies, but direct sales often include performance tips and technique guidance.
- General retailers: Amazon and Walmart work for basic items like rope, scarves, tables, and cases. Don’t rely on these for specialized magic equipment—the descriptions are often inaccurate.