WillBlyth PaperMagic
Will Blyth
21,430 wordsMentalismintermediateEntertaining and Amusing Models, Toys, Puzzles, Conjuring in which Paper is the only or principal material required. Author of "Handkerchief Magic," "Match Stick Magic," and "More Paper Magic." Member of the Executive Council of the "Magic Circle.
PAPER MAGIC
BEING A COLLECTION OF
Entertaining and Amusing Models, Toys, Puzzles, Conjuring
Tricks, etc.,
in which Paper is the only or principal material required.
by
WILL BLYTH
Author of "Handkerchief Magic," "Match Stick Magic," and "More Paper Magic."
Member of the Executive Council of the "Magic Circle."
With Introductory Note by NEVIL MASKELYNE
ILLUSTRATED BY 147 DIAGRAMS
1923
DEDICATED WITH FRATERNAL REGARDS TO MY FELLOW MEMBERS of
THE "MAGIC CIRCLE," AMONG WHOM I HAVE SPENT SO MANY HAPPY
HOURS
©2002 Cigam FTP
Table of Contents
Pdf version by TARKO The GREAT
Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Introductory Note PART II
Foreword Introduction
PART I Ball of Mahomet
Bewildering Tissues
Army Forage Cap Episode of Mere Man, An
Ash Tray Four Boy Scouts
Breakfast Cruet Gains of the Great War
Chinese Junk Magic Purse
Christmas Star Mind Divination
Dart Moths of Japan
Drill Sword Orchard Story, An
Easter Cross Paper Bag Cookery
Flap Purse Paper Tearing Act
Flapper Ribbons of India
The Flying Aeroplane Separating the Services
Kettle Spirit Calculator
Lifeboat Thought Reading
Mechanical Conjuring Trick Two Blacksmiths
Parachute Two Little Dicky Birds
Pin Tray
Puff Ball L'envoi
Puzzle Box
Sailing Boat
Saucepan
Smoke Ring Box
Soldier's Hat
Twin Rowing Boat
Windmill
Working Bellows
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Introductory Note
Mr. Will Blyth's book on "Paper Magic" is a most interesting work
upon the subject; containing, as it does, so much matter not to be
found elsewhere.
It not only includes the elementary paper-folding manipulations
familiar to most of us in our early days, but also much that should
prove entertaining during the leisure moments of our later years.
NEVIL MASKELYNE.
St. George's Hall,
Langham Place,
London, W. 1.
29 th June, 1920.
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Foreword
Paper is one of the easiest materials to obtain, and to those who are
interested in finding a useful means of utilizing some of the
household accumulations, the present volume will undoubtedly
appeal. It will be noticed that the book has been divided into two
parts, and the first portion, dealing with Toys, Models, Puzzles, etc.
made entirely from paper, will be found to provide a fascinating and
at the same time, inexpensive form of amusement for the younger
members of the home circle. The second section deals with some
effective conjuring tricks, in which paper is the only or principal
article employed, and some important remarks on this branch of
paper magic will be found on these pages.
Every item in Part I. has been very fully described, and all the
workings illustrated with progressive diagrams, in order to render
the work of construction as easy as possible. I am hopeful that there
will be no disappointed readers of this book, and that the youngest
reader will find little difficulty in making any of the items given by
following the instructions and comparing each fold with the
illustration, all of which have been designed from the actual paper
models. The first part will also be found useful to adults for the
amusement of children at a private party, and with a little pre-
practice in folding the children could be interested and entertained,
by showing them how to make up some of the models. It will be
found that this innovation will be gladly welcomed by the little
visitors and in most cases prove a strong rival to the older forms of
amusement usually arranged. I have found the study of paper folding
and paper magic most interesting and entertaining, and have for
years past made a note of every paper fold and paper magical effect
that came to my notice--these have now been written up, illustrated,
and published in the present form in the hope that they may prove a
source of amusement and entertainment to a wide circle of readers,
both young and old, during the long winter evenings.
WILL BLYTH.
Magic Circle Club-room,
Anderton's Hotel,
Fleet Street, E.C.
May, 1920.
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Part I
Paper Folding
Soldier's Hat
This is a most elementary paper folding item, being well known to
most boys and girls, and has been utilized for the "uniform" of many
youthful bands of warriors. The correct method of folding is as
follows:
Take a sheet of newspaper and fold it in half as Fig I. Turn down the
top corners A, A, of Fig. I along the dotted lines, to the centre B, and
fold up the bottom strip C, about two inches. Turn the paper over
and repeat the bottom fold on the other side, thus forming Fig. 2.
Now place both thumbs inside the bottom opening, till the paper
opens, and refold it so that the dotted line of Fig. 2 is on the outside,
the edges A, B, forming the centre line on either side; this folding
will give Fig. 3.
Finally fold Fig. 3 along the dotted line, bringing A, to B, and the
cap is complete as Fig. 4.
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Will Blyth
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Drill Sword
Having made the hat and provided "uniform" for the regiment, it is
now necessary to provide arms for the fray. For "playing at soldiers"
boys usually like to have swords, and a simple one can easily be
made from paper by tearing a strip about six inches wide off a
double sheet of newspaper and rolling it up fairly loosely, similarly
to Fig. 5. The end can be secured with a piece of gummed paper.
This must be pulled out from the centre to the fullest extent of the
roll, when it will be found that a good substitute for a sword has
been made, as Fig. 6.
Although not adapted for protective or aggressive purposes, it will at
least serve its purpose as an article of drill.
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Will Blyth
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Sailing Boat
The paper sailing boat is a very easy fold, being a development of
the Soldier's hat (Fig. 4). Place both thumbs inside the hat, and with
the fingers pressing outside pull gently, and refold the hat so that A,
and B, of Fig. 4 form the centre on either side, G, being on the
outside, making Fig. 7.
Now fold Fig. 7 along the dotted line, bringing A up to B, and
forming Fig. 8. Lastly, take the points A, and B, of Fig. 8 between
the thumb and forefinger of each hand and pull gently outwards,
when the sailing boat will gradually form itself into Fig. 9.
These are quite handy little craft, and if placed on a pond or stream
very little wind will be found necessary to send them sailing merrily
along.
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Will Blyth
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Army Forage Cap
Here is another type of soldier's hat; one that looks just like the real
article and is easily made. The size of paper used will depend upon
the fitting required, but a useful size can be made from a sheet of
paper about fifteen inches by twenty. The paper must first be folded
in half right across the width, as shown by the dotted line of Fig. 10,
bringing A, A, down to B, B, and making the paper appear the shape
of Fig. 11.
Next fold the corners A, A, of Fig. 11. over to B, at exactly one-third
the extreme length of the paper.
Now fold the top layer of the bottom strip C (representing another
third of the paper) up to D, after which, fold D, up to B, making Fig.
12.
The ends A, A, of Fig. 12 must now be turned underneath by
bending the paper along the dotted lines, when, if the paper is turned
over, Fig. 13 will be revealed. It is important at this stage to note
that the ultimate size of the cap is regulated by the width of paper
that is turned under Fig. 12. The strips A, and B of Fig. 13 are now
folded in a similar way as were the other side strips. Lastly the
corners C, C, are inserted inside the corners D, D, which fixes the
cap together, and it is then ready for wear as Fig. 14.
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Will Blyth
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Mechanical Conjuring Trick
This is a very clever little paper effect, and fairly easy to make. Take
a piece of notepaper about six inches square and fold each of the
four corners, A, B, C, and D, of Fig. 15 to the centre, E. Turn the
paper over and again fold the four corners to the centre, when the
paper will present the appearance of Fig. 16.
Paint the four triangles A, A, A, A, of Fig. A with black paint, and
when dry, fold the paper in half, bringing B, B, of Fig. 16 against C,
C, and froming Fig. 17. Now pinch the ends A, A, of Fig. 17 and
press towards the centre, forcing B, B, outwards, a similar
movement being made on the other side. The paper will now form
itself into a four-sided diamond-shaped figure with an opening at the
bottom of each side. If a finger is placed in each opening; it will be
found that by moving the fingers right and left or up and down,
either a dark centre or a white centre can be shown as desired. The
completed model is shown in Fig. 18.
In showing this as a conjuring trick, exhibit the dark side open and
then wave the hand in the air, remarking that you "will magically
turn black into white" or you may say that "the night will now depart
and daylight will appear." Bring the paper again to view with the
white portion exposed, but in doing this, make a half-turn with the
fingers, thereby turning the paper sideways and making the white
part appear the same shape as the black. If this little ruse is not
effected, the diamond-shaped opening will in one case be upright,
and in the other horizontal; if, however, the half-turn is made as
directed, the opening will appear to be the same each time, except
that at one time it is black, and then white. Neatly presented the
effect is very puzzling.
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Will Blyth
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Breakfast Cruet
The preceding figure is a combined one, in that if turned over and
placed upon the table in an upright position it forms a small
breakfast cruet, as shown in Fig. 19.
The tips of Fig. 19 may be turned downwards in order to give the
cruet a more substantial appearance for the reception of the
condiments. In this position the fold may also be used by children
(when acting as shopkeepers) for the display of small goods for sale.
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Will Blyth
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Twin Rowing Boat
Having made the sailing boat, which is a fairly easy fold, the reader
is now given the twin rowing boat, a rather more difficult
construction, but if the instructions are carefully followed, the
folding will not be beyond the powers of the reader.
Take a piece of stout writing paper about six or eight inches square
and fold over the corners to the centre, as indicated by the dotted
lines in Fig. 15 (Mechanical Conjuring Trick); the paper will then
appear like Fig. 20.
Next fold the sides over to the centre, making the ends A and B, of
Fig. 20, meet at the centre C; the dotted lines showing where the
folds should be made to form Fig. 21. Repeat the last fold
lengthways, thereby bringing the top and bottom edges A, and B, of
Fig. 21 to the centre C; the paper now appearing as the solid lines of
Fig. 22.
Bend back A and B, of Fig. 22, making the paper half the size of
Fig. 22.
Now comes rather a difficult move to explain in print, but the
method of folding can easily be followed by the diagrams. In the
centre of the top part of Fig. 22, after folding it in half, will be found
four points or corners--take two of these between the thumb and
forefinger and pull gently upwards and outwards to the extent of the
end points seen in Fig. 23, at the same time pressing the inside quite
flat. This movement will be more easily understood if one of the
double ends of Fig. 23 is studied, which clearly indicates the
position after the fold has been made. Repeat this operation at the
other end, and the twin rowing boat is then complete as Fig. 23.
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Will Blyth
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Pin Tray
This item, while interesting to make, is also a useful little article for
the office desk or workbench, and can be utilised in many ways for
the reception of odds and ends. A piece of stout writing paper about
six inches square will be required. Fold the sides A, A, of Fig. 24
over to the centre B, making the folds along the dotted lines. The
paper will then appear like Fig. 25.
Make two similar folds to Fig. 25 as indicated by the dotted lines,
which will bring the outside edges, A, A, to the centre B and
forming Fig. 26. Fold Fig. 26 in half, backwards, bending at the
dotted line, thus making the back of the bottom point B, touch the
back of the top point A, and the paper will now appear as Fig. 27.
The front portion of Fig. 27 is now turned over on itself by inserting
the two forefingers under A, and B, and pulling outwards and
downwards, gradually forming Fig. 28. The paper is pressed flat
after this operation. There is nothing very difficult about this fold,
and the reader is advised to note C, C, and D of Figs. 28 and 29,
which show the positions of the various points both before and after
the folding.
Now turn the paper over and make a similar fold on that side, which
will give Fig. 29. The three corners, A, B, and C, Fig. 29 are next
brought to the centre D, by folding along The dotted lines.Again the
paper is turned and the movement repeated on the other side, thus
forming Fig. 30.
The top portion A, of Fig. 30 is turned down on both sides by
bending along the dotted line and thus bringing the points B, B,
down to the points C, C, and forming Fig. 31. This completes the
folding of the pin tray which is now in a flattened condition. To
open out, take the flaps A, of Fig. 31 on both sides of the paper,
between the thumb and forefinger of each hand and pull gently
apart, when the pin tray is revealed as in Fig. 32.
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Will Blyth
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Ash Tray
This is a very easily made little model, yet like its more intricate
prototype, the Pin Tray (Fig. 32), it will be found very useful for the
reception of various odds and ends. Take a piece of stout paper about
four inches by six and well crease the paper, as shown by the dotted
lines of Fig 33, the small corner creases being made after the longer
surrounding lines have been well pressed into the paper. Note also, that
the side pieces are narrower than the top and bottom ones.
Bend up the ends A, and B, of Fig. 33 and pinch each corner inwards,
which will have the effect of bringing up the sides into position. The
appearance of one of the ends after doing this is shown in Fig. 34.
The flaps A, one of which is seen in Fig. 34, are finally bent over along
the dotted line, thereby covering B, when the Ash Tray is complete as
Fig. 35.
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Will Blyth
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Saucepan
A novel and surprising use to which the pin tray may be put is to
boil water. This is best effected over the flame of a candle. The tray,
or saucepan as it should now be called, being supported on the top
of a candle shade holder, as shown in Fig. 36.
The water must be put into the paper saucepan before the candle is
lighted, otherwise the paper will ignite. There is an interesting
scientific reason why the paper will not burn while the water is
inside: the water cannot, of course, get hotter than boiling point, and
as it will not, or cannot allow the paper to get above that point also,
it will be seen that there is not, sufficient heat for combustion to take
place.
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Will Blyth
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Kettle
This is another little article for the purpose of boiling Water, but the
method of folding is far more ingenious than the paper saucepan just
dealt with. The latter was quite open at the top, but in the case of the
kettle the water is completely covered and contained within the paper.
Take a piece of stout note paper. The size will naturally depend upon
the required capacity of the finished "kettle," but a piece about six to
eight inches square will be found very convenient. Fold this
horizontally, perpendicularly and diagonally, as indicated by the dotted
lines in Fig. 37, well pressing the folds down with a flat ruler or paper
knife, so that the folding marks are well impressed into the paper.
Fold Fig. 37 in half horizontally so that the bottom corners A, touch the
top corners B, B, and Fig. 38 is formed. Turn the triangular corners A,
A, of Fig. 38 inside the centre triangles B, B, which will bring the
points C, C, inside B, B, up to the centre point D when the paper will
appear like Fig. 39.
The top corners A, A, of Fig. 39 must now be folded down to the
bottom point B, the paper then reversed and the fold repeated on that
side, giving the paper the appearance of Fig. 40. Now comes the most
difficult move of the whole operation, so follow the instructions very
carefully. Unfold the side A, of Fig. 40 in order to form Fig. 41; then
fold the end A, over to the front, bending along the dotted line, thus
making Fig. 42.
Next bend over the top part of Fig. 42 marked A, along the lower
dotted line, and at the same time open out and press quite flat the little
double triangular corner B, of Fig. 42 into the position of B, of Fig. 43.
These explicit instructions and diagrams should make this move quite
clear to the reader, who will find that his paper has assumed the
appearance of Fig. 43.
Fold back the pointed end A, of Fig. 43 to the right, leaving the left
side clear. Now repeat the manipulations just described, and illustrated
in Figs. 41, 42 and 43, to the left side of the paper, i.e. B, of Fig. 40.
Next turn the paper over and repeat the folds on that side as set forth in
Figs. 41, 42 and 43, the result being that both sides will now appear
similar to Fig. 44. Bring the two tabs A, A, of Fig. 44 together on both
sides and holding with the thumb and forefinger of each hand, pull
slightly, at the same time blowing into the small hole which will be
found at the top, and marked B, in Figs. 44 and 45. The paper is thus
gradually "coaxed out," and, after pressing the sides and bottom edges,
the kettle will appear as Fig. 45. This can now be filled with water and
suspended over the flame of a candle in a similar way to the saucepan,
as described and illustrated on page 13. It will be found that the water
will boil without injuring the home-made kettle in any way.
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Will Blyth
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Working Bellows
This fold is not difficult to make, and the effect of the force of air
expelled in working the bellows makes the model very novel and
interesting. To make this, proceed with the folding of a stout piece
of writing paper as instructed in the foregoing fold of the kettle,
carrying the folding up to the stage of Fig. 40, the shape of the paper
being reproduced in Fig. 46.
Several creases similar to dotted lines of Fig. 46 have now to be
made in each of the four sections, i.e. the two in front of Fig. 46 and
the two which will be found at the back. The creases must be well
pressed into the paper with a flat ruler or the back of a tableknife,
and the subsequent folds will then readily adapt themselves as
required. To make the creases, fold over the points A, A, of Fig. 46
over to B, and after the crease has been well pressed into the paper,
open out the paper again. Then fold A, A, again, this lime over to C,
emphasising the creases as before, and afterwards opening out the
paper. The long dotted lines of Fig. 46 will show where the creases
should now appear in the paper. Lastly, pinch together the two little
corners lettered A, of Fig. 46 in the centre, along the dotted line
shown, so that the top part of A, or that part exposed to the view in
Fig. 46 is pressed inside. Hold one of the little ends, or tabs, between
the thumb and forefinger and fold the section over to the centre B,
B, and C, C, which will bring the outside edges D, D, D, D, of Fig.
46 level with the centre line. After this fold has been made in the
two front sections, the paper will present the appearance. of Fig. 47.
Now turn the paper over and fold the two tinder sections in a similar
manner, after which the working bellows is complete as seen in Fig.
48.
It will be found that by taking a pair of the little tabs A, A, of Fig.
48, together in the fingers of each hand and working the model
inwards and outwards, the bellows will prove itself to be a
thoroughly practical working article.
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Will Blyth
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Lifeboat
This pretty realistic little model is a further development of the pin tray
(Fig. 32). The side flaps, A, A, of Fig. 32 are first pressed against the side
of the tray and the top edges of the opposite sides, i.e. those without any
flaps, must be bent over outwards to the bottom outside edges of the tray. It
will, of course, only be possible to make the edges meet in the centre part
of the bottom and the ends must, therefore, be neatly pressed into the corner
angles, so that they can be made quite flat. This operation is not really a
difficult matter and the appearance of the paper at either end after the above
fold has been made can be seen in Fig. 49.
The top halves of Fig. 49 have now to be turned underneath. If Fig. 49 is
turned over you will find a plain square back similar to Fig. 50. Bend the
edges A, A, A, A, of Fig. 50 over to the centre B, B, by folding along the
dotted lines. Thus the outside edges B, B, of Fig. 49 will form the new
centre of Fig. 50, the inside edges A, A, of Fig. 49 forming the outside
edges of Fig. 50. The effect of this movement is that the whole of the upper
part of Fig. 49 covers the square of Fig. 50 making the reverse side appear
similar to Fig. 51. Now fold Fig. 51 backwards, folding along the dotted
line and so form Fig. 52.
Finally, take the ends A, A, of Fig. 52 between the thumb and forefinger of
each hand and pull carefully and gently outwards, when the lifeboat will
slowly evolve as Pig. 53.
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Will Blyth
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Chinese Junk
This is an old schoolboy fold, but to many the difficulty of
manipulation has been too great for them to attempt the folding. It is
hoped, however, that the explicit instructions in this book will be
found sufficiently clear to enable every reader to make this
culminating paper effect. The reader has now been led by
progressive stages to Fig. 53 (the lifeboat), and the final formation
of the Chinese junk from this model is mere child's play.
At each end of what might be termed the "deck " of the lifeboat, will
be noticed four triangular shaped pieces. The top layer of paper
forming these pieces must now be carefully raised into a
perpendicular position to the extreme ends, when it will be found
that the chinese junk as seen in fig. 54 is an accomplished fact.
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Will Blyth
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Flying Aeroplane
This is a regular up-to-date little model and will be found to be a very
amusing and practical toy for flying indoors or in the open air. Take a
piece of paper about six by eight inches and fold the bottom corner A, of
Fig. 55 up to B, as shown by the dotted line, C, D. Well press the line
into the paper and open out again. Then fold C, up to D, folding along
the dotted line A, B, and press the crease well into the paper as before,
and re-open the paper.
Now refer to Figs. 38, 39 (Kettle) and fold the lower square of paper
under the slip lettered E, of Fig. 55 as directed by the instructions for
Figs. 38 and 39. After these folds have been made, the only difference in
the appearance of the paper to Fig. 39 is that the top slip E, is added, as
indicated in Fig. 56. Now turn the top points A, A, of Fig. 56 down to
the bottom point B, by folding along the dotted lines shown, when the
paper will appear like Fig. 57.
A similar fold is now made to that of the Working Bellows (Figs- 46 and
47); folding along the dotted lines shown in Fig. 57 which will give Fig.
58. (Full instructions for this movement will be found here). Next fold
the lower portion of Fig. 58 lettered A, A, along the dotted line and bend
it right under the upper part of the paper and thus make Fig. 59.
Now make a V shaped bend along the dotted centre line of Fig. 59 which
will complete the manufacture of the body of the aeroplane, and there
now remains only the tail to be made, an extremely simple operation.
For this, a slip of paper about one by nine inches is required. Bend this
also into a V-shape down the centre, lengthways, and insert the end into
the body of the aeroplane at the centre point A, of Fig. 59. Temporarily
straighten up the turned over corner A, A, of Fig. 58 in order to push the
tail piece well home, rebending the point A, A, again when this has been
done. It will be found that this little manoeuvre keeps the tail piece
locked in the point A, A.
The Flying Aeroplane is now complete as Fig. 60, and if held at the
underside with the tips of the thumb and forefinger and propelled
forwards, it will be seen to sail for a fairly long distance in a most
aeroplane-like manner.
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Christmas Star
This is a very useful fold to learn for decorative purposes, and at Christmas
time, when the Star of Bethlehem is brought so prominently before us. It is
particularly appropriate for placing upon Christmas Trees or among the
holly and evergreen festoons. The stars may be made in various coloured
papers and produce a really charming effect, affording a pleasant and useful
occupation and pastime for the younger members of the family during the
days preceding our national Yuletide festival.
Some paper ribbon, half an inch wide, is all that is required for a small star;
for a larger one, use ribbon from one to two inches wide. These are easily
cut from the coloured papers usually made into chain decorations, or even
newspaper can be used, according to the pleasure of the maker of the stars.
To make a star, take four strips of half-inch paper ribbon, about nine inches
long, and folding each in half, place them together as shown in Fig. 61.
Passing A through the double end of I and so on.
The various shadings will enable readers to see how each of the four strips
could be used.
Now bend the top strip of A, of Fig. 61 over to B, the top strip of C across
to D, the top strip of E, up to F, and the top strip of G, across to H, passing
the end of G, underneath I, in order to lock the folds. which will now appear
similar to Fig. 62. Each of the eight strips of Fig. 62 surrounding the centre
square have now to be turned into triangular points. The shaded and dotted
strips belong, to the front and are folded first; the white strips belong to the
back, and are folded last. Turn the strip A, of Fig. 62 to the back, bending
along the dotted line. Fold again to bring strip A, to the front, thus forming
Fig. 63.
Now fold the strip A, of Fig. 63 over to B, folding along the dotted line, and
then pass the end of the strip of paper under B. Tear off any surplus of the
strip which protrudes, and the point is then formed as Fig. 64.
The ends A, B, and C, of Fig. 64 are next made into points by the same
process as just described for A, of Fig. 62. After which the paper is turned
over and the four strips on the back made into points as the front side strips
were, thus completing the star which appears like Fig. 65.
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Will Blyth
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Easter Cross
Having made the Christmas Star, it is an easy matter to construct an
Easter Cross, since it is only necessary to make seven stars and fit
them together with the points inside each other, when the Easter
Cross is complete as Fig. 66.
It should be noted that the centre squares are fitted together in
alternate positions, i.e. diagonal and diamond shaped. This enables
the points to fit more closely into each other and makes the cross
more compact. It is advisable to paste some paper along back, thus
binding the stars together and making the cross more permanent. A
handsome centre piece may be made, suitable for Church decoration
at Easter, if two-inch paper is used for the stars.
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Will Blyth
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Dart
This little toy is very popular with boys and is capable of making fine flights in
the air, moreover the manufacture is a very simple matter. Take a piece of
paper about nine inches by twelve as Fig. 67 and fold the corner points, A, A,
up to the centre B, bending along the dotted lines which will give Fig. 68.
Next fold the corners A, A, of Fig. 68 to the centre B, by bending the side
dotted lines and then double the paper by folding along the centre dotted line,
thus making Fig. 69.
Finally fold the edge A, of the top layer of Fig. 69 over to B, by folding along
the dotted line, turning the paper over and repeating the fold on the other side
when the dart is complete as Fig. 70 and ready for action.
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Parachute
These fascinating creations provide endless sport in the open air and well
repay the trouble of making them. It is better, however, to go out "flying"
with several prepared parachutes, since they are more often than not blown
out of reach of the owner. They are best made with tissue or foreign note
paper, which must be made circular and with rounded little projections
along the edge. The easiest method of effecting this is to fold a square of the
paper in half, and then in half again, making it one quarter its original size.
Next fold one corner to the opposite corner, making a triangular shape
similar to Fig. 71.
Now fold along the dotted line of Fig. 71, bringing the edge A over to B,
and forming Fig. 72. Next cut around the dotted line at the top of Fig. 72
and open out the lower piece lettered A, which will be found as represented
in Fig. 73.
Threads are now fixed to the points indicated in Fig. 73, the free ends being
joined together round a cork or folded piece of paper, the exact weight
required to properly balance the parachute will depend a great deal upon the
velocity of the wind at the time of flying, and also upon the weight of the
paper forming the body of the model. The parachute is then finished and
will appear as Fig. 74. When properly weighted and released in the air, the
body fills out with air and glides gracefully along.
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Flap Purse
This is not really a practical article, since anybody would be very venturesome
who endeavoured to bank any cash in this home-made receptacle for wealth. It
is a somewhat difficult fold, yet nevertheless interesting and ingenious and well
worth the effort required to produce. To make, take a piece of paper about eight
inches square and fold each way into three equal parts as shown by the dotted
lines of Fig. 75, which will give a small square similar to Fig. 76.
Now bend the corner A, of Fig. 76 up to B and well press the dotted line, C, D,
into the paper. Open out again and fold C, up to D, this time pressing the dotted
line A, B, well into the paper. Now pinch each corner inwards, which will have
the effect of forming a star-shaped figure; this must now be pressed quite flat,
when the paper will appear similar to Fig. 40 (Kettle). Now open out the paper
entirely, when it will be found to be marked as Fig. 77.
Next comes a rather intricate fold and one not very easily explained either in
print or by diagram. If, however, the dotted lines seen in Fig. 77 have been well
pressed into the paper, the folding will be rendered less difficult. The four sides
must first of all be drawn up to the centre so that A, of Fig. 77 comes on the top
of A; B on B; C on C; and D on D, making the fold appear something like Fig.
78. The points A, B, C, and D, of Fig. 78 are now bent down to form Fig. 79,
the folds in the paper assisting them into their places. It might be noted here that
the centre square A, of Fig. 77 is the same square seen in the centre of Fig. 79,
the latter square, however, is now covered with the four double triangular pieces
of paper A, A, B, B, G, C, and D, D, of Fig. 77.
Now turn A, of Fig. 79 under the centre square; then B, and finally G, the paper
when turned over appearing like Fig. 80. The point A at the top of the flap of
Fig. 80 is now inserted in the opening lettered 13, in Fig. 80 and the Flap Purse
is finished.
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Will Blyth
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Puff Ball
This is a very novel paper combination which can be used either as a puzzle,
a toy, or a game for several players. The ball is best made of stout writing
paper, and three round pieces of about three inches diameter will be
required. The three pieces must be cut with a sharp penknife or pair of
scissors, as indicated by the dotted lines in Figs. 81, 82 and 83.
Lightly fold the two side pieces marked A, A, of Fig. 81; and pass the upper
half of Fig. 81 through the centre slit of Fig. 82. Afterwards opening out the
lightly folded ends of Fig. 81, which will give Fig. 84. Now in a similar
manner lightly fold the four top halves marked A, A, A, A, of Fig. 84 (only
three of which can be seen in the diagram) and pass them through the centre
star cuts of Fig. 83. This can be easily managed by holding the folded ends
lightly between the four fingers of the right hand, when they can be gently
passed through the centre cuts of Fig. 83, which is held in the left hand. Thus
the puff ball is completed as seen in Fig. 85. The ball may be used as a
puzzle by asking anyone to get it to pieces and put it together again without
tearing the papers.
While some may succeed in disuniting the three papers, they will find that it
is not a simple matter to fix the ball together again. As a toy it will afford
great amusement to children by placing the ball on the table, so that they
may blow it about--a very little puff being necessary to send the ball rolling
along. It can also be used as a shuttlecock, and is capable of withstanding
tossing up and down with the hand or a bat without losing its original form.
An interesting game for several players can also be arranged if several balls
are made, each played being given a ball and a small tube or pipe stem. The
balls are placed in a row at one end of the table, and at a given signal the
players force their balls along by blowing through the tubes. The object of
the game is to see whose ball will arrive first at the opposite end of the table,
and the contest will be found both exciting and interesting.
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Windmill
Here is a very simple, yet practical and sporting outdoor toy for children.
Take a piece of paper about four inches square and make four cuts from
corners to centre as shown by the dotted lines in Fig. 86.
Now take the corners of Fig 86, lettered A, B, C, and D, and bring them
alternately over to the centre Et, when Fig. 87 will be formed. All that is
now required is to fix a pin through the centre point A, of Fig 87 to the top
of a short stick, and the windmill is made. If held in an horizontal position
while running along the road, the paper windmill will revolve very rapidly
causing quite a pretty effect.
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Will Blyth
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Puzzle Box
Here is a fold that is not at all difficult, and, when finished, forms an
interesting little puzzle. The size of paper used will, of course, depend
upon the capacity of the box, but a sheet of writing paper about eight
inches square is a convenient size. First fold the paper as instructed in
Figs. 24, 25 and 26 (Pin Tray). Then re-open the paper and fold again so
that the new folds cross the others, making the paper, when opened out,
appear like Fig. 88.
Turn point A, of Fig. 88 down to point B, making a triangle similar to
Fig. 89. Next fold point A, of Fig. 89 over to point B, folding along the
dotted line C, D, and the paper forms a four-folded triangle like Fig. 90.
Now cut away the shaded little triangle A, of Fig. go, cutting right
through the four papers also make a cut through the four papers along
the solid line B, of Fig. 90 and the paper When opened out will be
similar to Fig. 91.
Finally make a centre cut in the tabs D, and F, of Fig. 91 as shown by the
dotted lines marked A, but be careful not to carry this cut to the edge on
either side; also make half-way cuts on either side of the remaining tabs
C, and E, cutting along the dotted lines marked B. All that now remains
to be done is to bring the end C, over to D, folding lightly the sides of C,
so that the end of C slips into the centre slip A, of D, this accomplished,
the sides of C, are opened out as before. The end of E, is now fitted into
F, in a similar manner, the completed box now appearing as Fig. 92. The
puzzle is, for those unacquainted with the method of fixing the box
together, to open it without tearing the paper, and simple though the
secret is, it is not always discovered, and the article will be found a
means of interest and amusement to many.
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Will Blyth
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The Flapper
This ingenious mechanical fold is said to have been introduced into this
country by the Japanese; whether this is true or not, it certainly is a very
cleverly thoughtout construction and quite worthy of that clever race.
Take a sheet of paper about eight inches square and well press the folds
into the paper as shown by the dotted lines of Pig. 37 (Kettle). Now fold
each corner alternately over to the centre diagonal line as indicated in Fig.
93, and well press the fold from the corner (at the full width of the paper)
to the centre line, i.e. as from A, to B, of Fig. 93. Each corner will be
found capable of being folded two ways as in Figs. 93 and 94.
After each corner has been thus folded, the paper will appear like Fig. 95
when opened out. Next fold the paper in half along the dotted line, A, A,
shown in Fig. 95, and press the ends B, B, and C, C, inwards, which will
give Fig. 96.
Take the corners A, A, of Fig. 96 and press to the centre, bringing the top
parts B, B, together inside the folded paper. This operation will give Fig.
97.
Now fold the point A, of Fig. 97 downwards, bending along the dotted
line C, C, and treating the opposite point B, in a like manner, making the
fold now appear as Fig. 98.
The bottom point A, of Fig. 98 is now turned to the back of the fold, by
bending along the dotted line shown, and B, is similarly folded to the
front, giving the appearance of Fig. 99.
Slightly bend the wings A, and B, of Fig. 99 outwards and fold over the
end C, in order to make a head for the flapper, when the bird is complete
as Fig. 100.
It will now flap its wings in a most lifelike manner, if held between the
thumb and forefinger of each hand, by the points B, and C, of Fig. 100,
and the end C moved slightly upwards and downwards.
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Will Blyth
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Smoke Ring Box
The very pretty effective smoke rings that a smoker sometimes emits from his
mouth can also be made to come from a box made of paper. Six pieces of stout
writing paper about three inches by four will be required.
Turn up an inch of the top and bottom ends of each piece as shown by the
dotted lines of Fig. 101.
Lay one piece flat upon the table with the ends B, of Fig. 101 upwards, and
then slip the ends of two X of the other pieces under C, and D, forming Fig.
102. Now fix up two more pieces to form the other sides of the box, making
the plain edges pass inside A, and B, of Fig. 102 and the turned-up ends
overlap the plain edges C, and D of Fig. 102, which will give Fig. 103.
Cut a small hole in the centre of the remaining piece of paper and fix it in the
top of Fig. 103, passing the plain edges under A, and B, and making the turned
up edges overlap the edges C, and D, when the box is complete as Fig. 104. If
smoke is now passed from the mouth into the small hole A of Fig. 104 and the
bottom of the box tapped with the forefinger, a series of smoke rings will
ascend from the box forming a very pretty and effective display.
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Part II
Paper Conjuring
Introduction
There have been hundreds of books written on magic, dealing with
almost every possible phase of the art, many of them specialising in
one particular branch, such as Coins, Billiard Balls, Figures,
Thought Reading, Cards, Handkerchiefs, etc., etc., but until the
advent of the present volume, no one book has been published
setting forth a series of tricks from which an entire entertainment
can be given with an ordinary newspaper.
In bygone days the status of a magician was judged mainly by the
quantity of apparatus he carried, and the number of large mechanical
pieces he was able to exhibit to the public, but of late years the trend
has been more towards what is now known as the "attache case"
order of conjuring, and it is believed that there will be a great
demand for such a work as this which seeks to instruct the amateur
conjurer and drawing-room entertainer how to amuse and interest an
audience for one to two hours, simply by means of paper. It must
not, however, be supposed that although the method and- material
employed are simple, little or no preparation will be required; on the
other hand, it is often the case that the less involved the trick, the
greater is the amount of showmanship required to present it in an
entertaining and interesting manner. Each item given in this section
should, therefore, be carefully rehearsed before a looking glass again
and again, until the hands, eyes and patter harmonise completely one
with the other.
It is also most important when showing to lead the audience to
believe that something more wonderful is being done than is
actually the case. It is a great mistake to say, as do some performers,
"there is really nothing in the trick, you simply roll the paper, tear it
so, and the thing is done." The audience like to be mystified and
have come for that purpose, and that being the case, it is the duty of
the performer to give them what they want. The less the audience
understand of the modus operandi the more will they enjoy the
presentation, and the greater will be their estimation of the
entertainer. Thus, in the working of the tree explained further,
although the trick is absurdly simple and consists in merely rolling
up the paper and tearing or cutting it, yet the effect on the audience
when the tree is pulled out is so great, that they generally attribute to
the performer greater powers than he really possesses. In this trick,
and, indeed, in most of the others, an added effect can be obtained
by the touch of the magic wand "to complete the process," and yet
this little camouflage, silly though it may seem to some, provides the
proverbial "red herring" and misdirects the minds of the spectators
into puzzling out a magical reason for the creation.
The patter, or verbal accompaniment to the tricks, must be well
rehearsed. It is important that there should be no expressionless
repetition of a lot of words rattled off in a parrot-like manner. Talk
naturally and easily, and do not force too many jokes at one time.
Each trick in the book has the patter attached, as used by the author
when entertaining. This, however, is given merely as a guide; the
actual wording should be adapted to suit the individual
characteristics of the performer. Every endeavour should be made to
secure originality in effect, presentation, patter, and, even in the
trick itself, where perhaps some little improvement may suggest
itself to the performer. Many of the tricks given in this book are
known in other forms, but they have all been more or less added to
by the author, so that in most cases the original trick or principle is
quite obscured.
At the close of the entertainment it will be found that if the made-up
articles are offered to the audience there will be a keen desire to
possess these souvenirs, especially in the case of children. As the
distribution does not involve the disclosure of any well preserved
secret, this pleasing little finale should never be omitted. I usually
offer them to those who have in any way assisted me during the
performance, and it is surprising how children will treasure the most
ordinarily torn piece of paper, possibly surrounding it with a halo
because it has been "used by the conjurer."
Lastly, I might point out that there is a vast gulf between learning
the secret of tricks and in the performance of them, so that the
secrets are not exposed to the audience; and further, so that the
audience are entertained by the presentation. The performer must
acquire the characteristics of the art of showmanship--and they are
many. Some have already been dealt with, but the most important to
my mind is a cheerful disposition. A smile at the beginning--a smile
in the middle--and a smile at the end. In short carry a smile right
through. No matter if something goes wrong--smile it away.
"It's easy enough to look pleasant
When the show goes along like a song,
But the magician worth while
Is the one who will smile
When one of his tricks goes wrong."
WILL BLYTH.
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Will Blyth
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Part II
Paper Conjuring
Two Blacksmiths
Two sheets of coloured paper, one red and one blue, are each rolled
into balls, and after being wrapped in separate papers are placed in
two tumblers, the red ball in one tumbler and the blue ball in the
other. The performer now touches each tumbler with his wand, and
upon opening the papers the balls are seen to have changed places.
Working--First Method
Two sheets of newspaper are pasted together round the edges, a
piece of blue paper being laid between the two sheets before pasting,
them together. Two more sheets of newspaper are prepared in the
same manner, but with a red piece of paper between them. Fig. 105
will perhaps indicate this more clearly.
These prepared papers
are given a private mark,
so that they may be
easily distinguished. At
the commencement of
the trick the two
prepared sheets, together
with a red and a blue
sheet of paper, are lying
upon the performer's
table. The four sheets
are shown, and the
coloured sheets rolled
into a red and a blue
ball. The red ball is wrapped in the paper containing the concealed
blue piece of paper, and the blue ball is wrapped in the paper
containing the concealed red piece of paper. They are laid upon the
table and the tumblers introduced. In doing this the two papers are
purposely mixed in order to puzzle the audience as to which paper
contains the red or the blue ball. They are now placed in the separate
tumblers but in order to demonstrate clearly to the audience which
paper contains the red ball and which paper contains the blue ball,
the bottom of each paper is torn slightly, exposing the concealed
colour, which is, of course, taken by the audience to be the colour of
the ball placed there by performer. The wand is then requisitioned
and the packages opened, disclosing the fact that the two balls have
changed places.
Working--Second Method
This method, in which sleight of hand only is employed, is one that
will assuredly appeal to those who delight in mysterious effect tar
excellence. Two unprepared paper bags are required; a sheet of blue
and a sheet of red paper, also a duplicate sheet of blue paper rolled
into a ball. The two bags are opened and stood upon the table and
the duplicate ball of blue paper is, unknown to the audience, Placed
behind one of the bags. The position at the commencement of the
trick is indicated in Fig. 106.
The sheets
of red and
blue paper
are rolled
into
separate
balls and
laid upon
the table.
The hands
are shown
to be quite
empty, and
the bags
held out
one at a
time for
inspection.
The bag
with the duplicate ball behind it is shown last, and in lifting up the
bag with the left hand, the right hand is placed flat upon the table,
picking up the concealed ball, which is now held concealed in the
right hand. This is an easy matter if worked from the side of the
table, with the left side of performer to audience. The red ball is then
picked up with the right hand and presumably placed in one of the
bags, but in reality it is retained in the right hand, and the concealed
blue ball placed in the bag instead. This move is repeated with the
blue ball, resulting in the red ball being placed in the other bag,
leaving the blue ball concealed in the hand. The wand is now taken
up in the right hand, thus making the retention of the ball in the hand
an easy matter until opportunity arises for its disposal.
Working--Third Method
This is a very ingenious method of working the trick, and is well
suited to beginners in magic, involving the use of two prepared bags.
Four bags are really necessary, two of which have about an inch cut
A the top. A red paper ball is dropped into one of the longer bags,
and one of the shorter bags fitted inside, the tops of the two bags
being pasted together, so that when the bag is opened, it appears to
be one bag only. The remaining two bags are similarly prepared
with a blue ball in the bottom, a private mark being made to indicate
to performer which bag contains the red or the blue ball.
The bags as prepared are
shown in Fig. 107. When
placing the balls in the
bags the positions of the
respective colours should
be duly emphasised so
that the audience are
under no misapprehension
as to which bag contains
the red ball and which bag
contains the blue ball. The
bags are then closed and
placed, one in each
tumbler, the procedure of discovering and changing the balls being
the same as with the two previous methods.
Patter
Ladies and Gentlemen. I shall have much pleasure in relating to you
a short magical story, entitled, "The Two Blacksmiths." This sheet
of red paper, which I roll into a ball, will represent one of the smiths
and this sheet of blue paper, which I also roll into a ball, will
represent the other. They each had separate workshops, which were
exactly opposite each other, and as each shop was well provided
with glass windows, it will not be out of place if I make use of these
two tumblers for the two workshops. You are welcome to examine
them if you wish, but I think you can easily see the inside from the
outside, and, if you were to get inside, you could just as easily see
the outside from the inside. Now the smiths are about to commence
business and therefore get into working attire. These sheets of paper
(or "bags," whichever is being made use of by performer) will serve
for the purpose. Now they are both inside their shops, working away
with a bang and a clang. A gentleman, whose house stood not far
from the two smithys, finding that the noise was too much for his
nerves, visited the smiths and offered them ten pounds each if they
would move to another shop. Here is the gentleman, my wand,
visiting the first shop. Let me see, who is here? Ah the red smith,
and here, of course, in the second shop is the blue smith. They
accepted the gentleman's offer, and, incidentally his ten pounds, and,
in about a week's time he visited one of the smiths and enquired
whether they would be moving soon according to agreement. "We
have already done so," answered the smith. "I have moved to Jack's
shop and jack has moved to mine." And here you see it is just as he
stated, first the red smith, and now the blue. the only question is:
however did they manage it?
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Paper Magic
Will Blyth
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Part II
Paper Conjuring
Two Little Dicky Birds
This little elementary magical sleight is so old that it is almost
forgotten by the present generation. but in bygone years it afforded
great amusement to children. It it a most simple trick, yet to many at
first sight the secret is not always apparent and may often be shown
with advantage.
Effect
The two forefingers are extended and a small piece of paper stuck
on the end of each. The papers are then made to disappear one at a
time by simply raising the fingers, and are made to return again by
the same method.
WORKING
Moisten two small pieces of paper and stick one on the end of each
forefinger. Tap the two forefingers on the table (the rest of the hand
being closed) while repeating the patter verse. To make the paper
disappear the right forefinger is first raised in the air and quickly
enclosed in the hand, the second finger being brought to the table in
its place. The spectators regard it as the same finger as before, minus
the paper. After both pieces of paper have been made to disappear,
they are made to appear again by the same process.
Patter
Two little dicky birds
Sat upon a wall,
One named Peter
The other named Paul.
Fly away Peter (Disappear right hand paper),
Fly away Paul (Disappear left hand piece);
Come back Peter (Right hand piece returns),
Come back Paul (Left hand piece returns).
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Will Blyth
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Four Boy Scouts
Effect
A table knife and four small pieces of paper are handed for
examination. The papers are moistened and stuck separately, two on
each side of the blade. Two pieces of paper are removed, leaving
one piece on each side of the blade. The remaining pieces are then
removed and the knife shown clean. The four papers are
mysteriously made to return to the knife.
Working
The real secre