If you’ve just stepped into the world of magic, you’ve probably felt that mix of excitement and slight panic-so many tricks, props, flashy gadgets… and your wallet whispering “please, don’t”. Don’t worry. Let’s sort out what you actually need to start strong without filling a drawer with stuff you’ll never use.
By the way, if you like poking around quality creative gear, I sometimes browse https://boutique-creative.fr when I’m hunting for inspiration or props that don’t look cheap. Just saying.
Why beginners waste money (and how not to)
I’ve seen it a hundred times-someone buys ten tricks on impulse, performs maybe two, and forgets the rest in a box under the bed. Honestly, I did the same when I was 14. The problem ? Most magic shops throw “easy to do !” labels everywhere, even on things that require weeks of practice. And beginners think props will do the work for them.
But magic doesn’t work like that. The best accessories are the ones that help you learn fundamentals, build confidence, and grow into more advanced stuff. So let’s talk about those.
1. A good deck of cards (yes, it matters more than you think)
If you’re starting with card magic-and you probably are-grab a deck of Bicycle Rider Backs. Nothing fancy. No gilded edges. Just the classic red or blue deck. They cost little, they handle beautifully, and they don’t scream “magician deck !” to spectators.
Ever tried doing a double lift with cheap supermarket cards ? It feels like flipping wet cardboard. Trust me, get real cards. You’ll instantly feel the difference.
2. A set of sponge balls (the most underrated beginner tool)
Sponge balls look silly until you actually perform with them. They’re soft, visual, easy to manipulate, and perfect for practicing sleight-of-hand without stress. Plus they pack small-literally in your pocket-but play huge.
One tip, though : don’t get the super tiny ones. Go for the 1.5″ or 2″ versions so your hands don’t look like you’re crushing grapes.
3. A thumb tip (and yes, you should actually learn to use it)
Ah, the famous thumb tip. Every magician owns one. Half don’t use it. And that’s a shame, because it’s one of the strongest gimmicks ever created.
With a thumb tip, you can vanish a silk, make a banknote appear somewhere impossible, or do quick, bold magic in a casual conversation. But-and I insist-it only works if you learn the handling properly. Flashing the thumb tip is a rite of passage, don’t worry.
4. A simple coin set (nothing fancy, just real coins)
You don’t need gaffed coins at the beginning. Take four identical coins-quarters, pounds, whatever you use daily-and start practicing basic moves : the French Drop, retention vanish, and simple switches.
The cool thing about coin magic is that you can practice anywhere. Bus stop. Café table. While waiting for someone who’s always late (we all have that friend). And when you show a vanish with real coins, people react differently. It feels raw, almost intimate.
5. A close-up pad (your future best friend)
I know, it feels like a luxury. But performing on a proper pad changes everything : smoother card spreads, easier pickups, cleaner displays. It also gives your setup a “real magician” vibe, which boosts your confidence more than you’d expect.
If you don’t want to invest too much, start with a small, portable one. They last forever if you don’t spill coffee on them. Been there, done that.
6. A beginner-friendly magic book (yes, a book)
YouTube is great, but it can make your learning chaotic. A structured book teaches you technique, timing, and presentation. Look for classics like “Royal Road to Card Magic” or “Mark Wilson’s Complete Course in Magic”.
Books force you to visualize moves before doing them, which trains your brain in a completely different way. It’s slower, but deeper.
7. A small silk (for clean vanishes and visual magic)
A bright red silk-nothing bigger than 9″ or 12″-works perfectly with a thumb tip and adds a pop of color to beginner routines. It’s soft, light, and forgiving. I remember carrying one in my jacket pocket during college and performing casual vanishes at parties. People loved it.
So… what should you buy first ?
If your budget is tight, here’s the order I’d recommend :
1. A quality deck of cards
2. A thumb tip + small silk
3. Sponge balls
4. A coin set
5. A close-up pad
That’s enough to learn actual magic-not gimmick-dependent stunts that break after two uses.
Final thoughts
Starting magic shouldn’t feel overwhelming or expensive. With a handful of solid, reliable accessories, you can build your skills, find your style, and slowly grow your repertoire. And maybe that’s the best advice : don’t rush. Enjoy the moments where you fumble a pass or drop a coin. These little “argh !” moments are part of the craft.
Now tell me-what’s the trick or accessory you’ve been eyeing lately ? Let’s talk about it.
