Search found 80 matches

by Gary Brown
March 12th, 2020, 11:46 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: A New Edition of Greater Magic is Coming
Replies: 102
Views: 26576

Re: A New Edition of Greater Magic is Coming

Any update re: release date in this?
by Gary Brown
February 25th, 2019, 11:45 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: The Enigmatist at NYC’s High Line Hotel
Replies: 2
Views: 1700

The Enigmatist at NYC’s High Line Hotel

For those interested in puzzles, crosswords, games, cryptography and their relation to magic, have I got a show for you! David Kwong, currently performing in The Enigmatist at NYC’s High Line Hotel is truly a treasure. I’ve done a full review and report on the Propelled Pasteboards blog, which you c...
by Gary Brown
May 6th, 2018, 11:42 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Has anyone succeeded 'Cards by Martin'?
Replies: 15
Views: 9021

Re: Has anyone succeeded 'Cards by Martin'?

You might enjoy this fine tribute by Tom Ewing:

https://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/......tin.html

Gary Brown
by Gary Brown
January 1st, 2018, 9:48 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: The Magician at the Nomad Hotel with Dan White
Replies: 1
Views: 1150

The Magician at the Nomad Hotel with Dan White

Last week, I was fortunate enough to get tickets to see The Magician at the Nomad , showcasing Dan White, a remarkably accomplished magician, mentalist and illusionist, at New York City's Nomad Hotel. It's an astonishing performance featuring great and beautiful magic. Tickets are remarkably hard to...
by Gary Brown
December 25th, 2017, 12:49 am
Forum: General
Topic: Theodore Deland
Replies: 102
Views: 48572

Re: Theodore Deland

Richard Kaufman wrote:Your assumptions about the designs of the other two cards are incorrect.


So, Richard, if we’re wrong about the orher two back designs...what are they???? Thanks in advance for your help.

Gary
by Gary Brown
November 16th, 2017, 7:51 am
Forum: General
Topic: Theodore Deland
Replies: 102
Views: 48572

Re: Theodore Deland

For those of you whom, like me, are looking forward to Richard's book on Deland, you may want to take a peek at this blog posting which features several interesting items produced by Deland with some of the context of those items: https://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/11/theodore-delands-got-your-...
by Gary Brown
July 2nd, 2017, 9:34 am
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: The Largest Throwing Card Collection on the Web
Replies: 0
Views: 2807

The Largest Throwing Card Collection on the Web

In connection with our work on Propelled Pasteboards, the Throwing Card Blog, we have established a parallel Pinterest page which captures many of the wonderful cards featured in various posts, along with a few other throwing cards featured around the web. The page displays scores of the cards you'l...
by Gary Brown
June 3rd, 2017, 12:36 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Okito boxes
Replies: 34
Views: 13909

Re: Okito boxes

Ron Diamond at Ronjo Magic recently partnered with a new European machinist who is doing beautiful work in this regard. I've handled these boxes and they are just wonderful. I particularly found the two coin box of interest, as I've often thought that the four-coin version box, esp. for dollars, was...
by Gary Brown
April 26th, 2017, 9:13 am
Forum: Link Watch
Topic: Happy World Intellectual Property Day!
Replies: 0
Views: 12617

Happy World Intellectual Property Day!

Yes, that's today. And to celebrate, we've added a special post at Propelled Pasteboard, which you may enjoy:

http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/ ... ctual.html

Gary
by Gary Brown
March 18th, 2017, 8:35 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Leap of Faith and Ricky Jay
Replies: 8
Views: 5356

Leap of Faith and Ricky Jay

I just had the opportunity to watch Leap of Faith (1992), possibly for the first time since its release in 1992. In this marvelous film, Steve Martin plays a tent show preacher, using all kinds of tricks to fleece the faithful. The film showcases lots of techniques of interest to magicians and menta...
by Gary Brown
March 11th, 2017, 6:47 pm
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: Houdini Throw Out Card
Replies: 25
Views: 11823

Re: Houdini Throw Out Card

At Propelled Pasteboards, the throwing card blog, my friend and co-blogger Gary Frank drafted a post which includes the Cards as Weapons Houdini throwing card image as well as an image of a fine Houdini cinema card. To do this, Mr. Frank got permission from Ricky to reproduce the illustration. As fa...
by Gary Brown
March 10th, 2017, 10:48 am
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: Digital Debut of the Harry Houdini Throwing Card
Replies: 0
Views: 6129

Digital Debut of the Harry Houdini Throwing Card

There’s some exciting news at Propelled Pasteboards, the throwing card blog. My friend and co-blogger Gary Frank drafted a post to highlight a rare and interesting Houdini cinema card for the site. Thanks, in part, to a suggestion from Bill Mullins (a generous collector who has also contributed a gu...
by Gary Brown
March 7th, 2017, 6:59 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Ricky Jay and Buchinger
Replies: 85
Views: 26844

Re: Ricky Jay and Buchinger

As a follow up to my last post, Tom Ewing did a deep dive into his astounding collection and found a "Tricky Ricky" throwout card from a time when Mr. Jay was not so well known. See it here:

http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/ ... y.html?m=1

Enjoy!

Gary
by Gary Brown
February 25th, 2017, 1:22 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: 279: The Cardini Connection with Randy Pitchford
Replies: 8
Views: 3805

Re: 279: The Cardini Connection with Randy Pitchford

just posted an interesting bit of Cardini memorabilia along with a touch of history on the throwing card blog:

http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/02/cardinis-birthday-his-fanning-card-and.html?m=1

Gary
by Gary Brown
February 18th, 2017, 6:50 pm
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: no, not that Powell....
Replies: 1
Views: 1627

no, not that Powell....

What do Elliot Ness, a series of grisly murders, and a magician's throwout card have in common? You'll find out when you read Tom Ewing's incredible post about Ralph Powell on Propelled Pasteboards:

http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/ ... e.html?m=1
by Gary Brown
February 13th, 2017, 10:50 pm
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: ThrowingCard.com debut
Replies: 8
Views: 2686

Re: ThrowingCard.com debut

I recognized that most of you on this nearly decade old thread know this, but for anyone who hasn't made their way yet, check out Propelled Pasteboards at throwingcard.blogspot.com. Thanks to my co-creators Tom Ewing and Gary Frank, and some tech upgrades by Google, it's got everything you could wan...
by Gary Brown
February 12th, 2017, 12:42 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Ricky Jay and Buchinger
Replies: 85
Views: 26844

Re: Ricky Jay and Buchinger

For those of you interested in Ricky Jay specifically, as well as throwing cards and card throwing generally, you might want to take a look at the work we've been doing at Propelled Pasteboards, which currently has one Ricky Jay post here: http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/01/on-ricky-jay-matth...
by Gary Brown
January 28th, 2017, 8:22 am
Forum: General
Topic: How Houdini became the King of Cards
Replies: 11
Views: 3731

How Houdini became the King of Cards

Anyone know the obscure 19th century performer who invented the back palm and taught it to Houdini and T Nelson Downs? I certainly didn't until the story was unearthed by Tom Ewing, my friend and co-contributor to the throwing card blog Propelled Pasteboards (drawing from a body of research gathered...
by Gary Brown
January 8th, 2017, 11:13 am
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: McDonald Birch
Replies: 21
Views: 7788

Re: McDonald Birch

For those interested in a sampling of Tom's remarkable work on McDonald Birch, check out his incredible post on Birch's throwing cards at Propelled Pasteboards, the throwing card blog, which can be found at http://throwingcards.blogspot.com/2017/01/mcdonald-birch.html . https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pG...
by Gary Brown
December 16th, 2016, 9:03 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Introducing The Throwing Card Blog
Replies: 1
Views: 1521

Introducing The Throwing Card Blog

As some of you may recall, some years ago, I had operated a web site at throwingcard.com, a static page site devoted to the history of magicians' throwing cards (also known as scaling cards and throwouts). Eventually, web hosting and software problems led to the site's demise after a good run. I am ...
by Gary Brown
November 12th, 2016, 8:24 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Verso in NYC thru Nov. 28
Replies: 2
Views: 1305

Verso in NYC thru Nov. 28

I just returned from VERSO , which is playing in NYC through the end of November. This two-hour spectacular features Helder Guimarães, a consummate performer previously showcased in Nothing to Hide produced by Neil Patrick Harris. The performance is an entertaining blend of exquisite cardistry and m...
by Gary Brown
January 26th, 2014, 9:27 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Egg Bag History
Replies: 39
Views: 15114

Re: Egg Bag History

Hi I recognize that this is an old thread, so the information is probably of no use now, but I wanted to add that, I believe (without checking my reference books) that the major innovation of the Tarbell egg bag is the use of plaid material. I can only assume that Tarbell introduced this variant. Ob...
by Gary Brown
December 14th, 2013, 11:53 pm
Forum: General
Topic: WWII Map Cards from USPCC
Replies: 0
Views: 1538

WWII Map Cards from USPCC

Okay, so there's an effect in here someplace. I just can't figure it out. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mgstfa7uCEI/UgJymFKpdRI/AAAAAAAAEQA/nb2jvctNXR0/s1600/Bicycle+escape+box.jpg USPCC is selling a bicycle deck inspired by the WWII escape decks that were distributed via the Red Cross to Allied POWs. H...
by Gary Brown
December 14th, 2013, 11:37 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Kineti-Key Jr.
Replies: 1
Views: 1205

Re: Kineti-Key Jr.

Just a follow-up on this item, which is very nicely crafted. At this time of year, it can be pitched as "Santa's Key" - a key that changes shape to allow Santa to get into houses and apartments with different kinds and sizes of locks. It makes a nice story particularly for kids who don't h...
by Gary Brown
November 10th, 2013, 1:44 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: New York Post review of "Nothing to Hide"
Replies: 2
Views: 1328

Re: New York Post review of "Nothing to Hide"

I got to see this show last evening. It is unbelievable. About a half-dozen vignette set pieces -- all card magic -- with two superlative performers. Reminded me a bit of some of Ricky Jay's best work. It's only running a short time, so if you have the chance, don't miss this one!

Gary Brown
by Gary Brown
September 12th, 2013, 10:18 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Chazpro Color Changing Card Knives
Replies: 0
Views: 657

Chazpro Color Changing Card Knives

I came across a reference on a web site reviewing lots of color changing knife sets to the Chazpro knives that were produced a few years back and are no longer being made. The review site is here: http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/e99d/ . After searching around a bit, I was able to scare up a set of ...
by Gary Brown
September 12th, 2013, 9:58 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Best Okito Box and Routine...Your opinion?
Replies: 164
Views: 92985

Re: Best Okito Box and Routine...Your opinion?

Hello all, I was pleased to come across this post, as several months back, I treated myself to a Jim Zee slot Boston box. It is a gem. The workmanship is impeccable, right down to Jim's tiny signature Z inside the box. It is made with such precision that even someone who isn't very good at coin work...
by Gary Brown
May 10th, 2013, 10:37 pm
Forum: General
Topic: Help with Chop Mug
Replies: 11
Views: 5576

Help with Chop Mug

After a very long search, I finally obtained one of the chop mugs designed by David Bonsall and Jamie Raven. Well, it showed up today, the bottom had a price sticker that, according to the instructions, was intentionally added for "authenticity." Well, because the cup is a few years old, t...
by Gary Brown
April 20th, 2013, 2:01 am
Forum: General
Topic: Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay
Replies: 42
Views: 15971

Deceptive Practice - The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay

Hello all, I had the great good fortune to attend the NYC debut showing of this film, and it's really worthwhile. Deceptive Practice is a thoroughly researched and exquisitely produced documentary of one our greatest magicians, and the rich tradition and history behind his career. Over the next few ...
by Gary Brown
February 8th, 2013, 10:09 pm
Forum: Magic History and Anecdotes
Topic: Professor Krieger
Replies: 5
Views: 1883

Re: Professor Krieger

Hi

I was pleased to be able to include a section on Krieger in The Coney Island Fakir (which is available for the Kindle). Jackie Flosso had some great material about his grandfather, and I found some additional information from magic magazines of the time.

Hope this helps.
by Gary Brown
October 12th, 2012, 9:50 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Magic Happenings in Washington DC?
Replies: 6
Views: 2075

Re: Magic Happenings in Washington DC?

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. I wound up attending a meeting of Ring 50, which meets just outside of DC in Alexandria. It's a terrific, vibrant group with a large membership. Everyone went out of their way to make an out of towner feel welcome. Many thanks to all the members I met, as well...
by Gary Brown
September 28th, 2012, 11:13 pm
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Magic Happenings in Washington DC?
Replies: 6
Views: 2075

Magic Happenings in Washington DC?

Will be in Washington DC during the 1st week of October. Any magic happenings go on worthy of note? Any shops worth a visit? Thanks in advance for any advice.
by Gary Brown
June 24th, 2012, 1:51 am
Forum: Buzz
Topic: Max Maven – Off Broadway
Replies: 26
Views: 8335

Re: Max Maven – Off Broadway

Just caught the show this evening. Several notables in the audience, including Eugene Burger and Steve Rodman. Max is amazing. I brought three non-magicians with me, and they couldn't get over it. For the magicians, it's a stark demonstration of how one really makes magic. It's a very limited run, s...
by Gary Brown
May 5th, 2012, 9:41 pm
Forum: General
Topic: PK Ring Magic: The Missing Manual
Replies: 2
Views: 1885

PK Ring Magic: The Missing Manual

I am pleased to announce that PK Ring Magic: The Missing Manual is now available for the Kindle. This is something I put together a few years ago, and I am proud to be able to release it for only $2.99 It can be found at the following link: PK Ring Magic: The Missing Manual at Amazon.com The product...
by Gary Brown
February 25th, 2011, 12:31 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Looking for an auto part that makes a good coin pull
Replies: 1
Views: 1161

Looking for an auto part that makes a good coin pull

This is an odd question. Some years ago, I was in a magic shop when Presto was showing a few British magicians how to construct a coin pull from a small wire device attached to a length of elastic. (I had the pleasure of telling the British guys just who it was that had just taught them an amazing e...
by Gary Brown
February 25th, 2011, 12:26 am
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: Kineti-Key Jr.
Replies: 1
Views: 1205

Kineti-Key Jr.

I haven't been able to find a thread on this effect. Having just picked this up and showed it off a few times, it's a beautiful prop that's easy to use and provides remarkable impact. In my opinion, it makes a great opener for a close-up set.
by Gary Brown
January 25th, 2011, 11:35 am
Forum: Alternative Media
Topic: Pawn Stars: Are they Houdini Handcuffs?
Replies: 26
Views: 13948

Re: Pawn Stars: Are they Houdini Handcuffs?

A few abstract questions: 1. Do you think it's possible that Hardeen owned restraints that were never touched by his brother? Nothing abstract about that question. While writing The Coney Island Fakir Jackie Flosso provided a very interesting answer to that question, which I included in the book. I...
by Gary Brown
October 24th, 2010, 10:11 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: What to do with Double-Faced Cards
Replies: 8
Views: 2601

Re: What to do with Double-Faced Cards

Denis - thanks for the references. I guess I should have thought about opening some of my books! Now off to grab Greater Magic and Expert Card Technique . . .
by Gary Brown
October 22nd, 2010, 11:56 pm
Forum: Close-Up Magic
Topic: What to do with Double-Faced Cards
Replies: 8
Views: 2601

What to do with Double-Faced Cards

I just bought a deck of standard, double faced USPCC cards. My intention was to use them for a variant of McDonald's Aces -- I wanted to set up a deck with the Jacks, Kings and Queens face up, allow the spec to choose which set to work with, and then do a McDonald's routine. Unfortunately, the faces...
by Gary Brown
October 18th, 2010, 9:42 pm
Forum: General
Topic: The Coney Island Fakir Released on Kindle!
Replies: 14
Views: 4424

Re: The Coney Island Fakir Released on Kindle!

Wow! Thank you all for your enthusiasm and your kind words. I just got a Kindle myself and find it quite amazing. These platforms provide a remarkable opportunity for those of us with specialized interests -- offering greater flexibility for authors and readers of works that aren't economically feas...

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