Floating Beaker

Effect: A plastic beaker floats in the air.

Secret: On one side of a plastic beaker attach a strip of strong paper. It is important that the paper is loose along the centre portion. To make the beaker appear to float, you push your right thumb through the paper loop. Place your left hand near your right hand and then lift your hands in the air. With practice it will appear that the beaker is floating in the air. Keep the taped side of the beaker nearest your body so the audience do not see it.

Bewildering Beaker

Effect: A beaker vanishes.

Secret: The beaker is glued to a small wooden tray. In the centre of a scarf sew a circle of cardboard. Show the beaker then cover it with the scarf or handkerchief. Lift the scarf (holding the cardboard disc so it looks as if you are holding the rim of the beaker) and turn the tray towards you. Stand the tray against something on your table – with the beaker side away from the audience. Everyone believes you are holding the beaker. Throw the scarf in the air and catch it as it falls – the beaker has vanished.