Effect
Burning a Borrowed Handkerchief
Harlan Tarbell · The Tarbell Course, 1926
- Time
- 5 min read + 10 min practice
- Materials
- In the library
- Prerequisites
- None
Take care. Working with these objects and effects is inherently dangerous; anyone who attempts them does so at their own risk. Anybody under 18 is advised to undertake them only with a parent's permission and supervision.
Performer borrows a handkerchief (man's or woman's). He sets fire to the center of it by holding it over a lighted candle or match. The flames are extinguished and handkerchief is touched with a magic ring. The handkerchief is restored.
This trick goes well at a moment's notice in the parlor, the dining room, at a banquet, or on the stage. Many times I just happen to see a handkerchief in a lady's lap. I ask her for permission to use it and proceed to do the trick as though seeing the handkerchief gave me the idea of doing it.
How it is done
The method and all it needs, inside the library.
Check back on December 1, 2026 to join the waiting list.