Advanced Handling

The "Stiff Hand" Problem

You have an extra sponge ball hidden in your hand, but you need to show the audience you only have one. If you just squeeze your hand shut, it looks stiff and suspicious. Everyone can tell you're hiding something because your hand doesn't look relaxed.

How to Handle Multiple Balls Naturally

This lesson teaches you how to hold two or three sponge balls so they look like just one or two. These are called "displays." They let you show your hands are "clean" even when you're loaded with extra props. You'll learn how to use your thumb and pinky to keep everything hidden while keeping your fingers open and natural.

You’ll also learn how to move multiple balls at once. Instead of just vanishing one ball, you'll learn how to do a "multiple false transfer." This lets you pretend to put two balls into your hand while actually keeping them both. It’s a great way to build up to a massive production or a clean vanish into your pocket.

About Xulio Merino

Xulio is known for reinventing sponge ball magic. He even used these types of techniques to fool Penn & Teller on their show Fool Us. He focuses on making the moves look like real magic rather than just "tricks."

What You'll Learn

• The Two-as-One Display – How to hide a second ball directly behind the one the audience sees.
• The Three-as-Two Display – A way to show two balls while keeping a third one hidden.
• Finger and Pinky Positioning – Why lifting your pinky slightly covers the "bad angles" of a hidden ball.
• The Vernon Multiple False Transfer – How to "steal" two balls with the same timing and rhythm as stealing one.
• Using the Table – A simple trick using the table surface to help you grip multiple balls securely.
• Relieving Hand Tension – Techniques to keep your hands looking relaxed so the audience doesn't get suspicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this hard to learn?
It’s a bit more advanced than a basic vanish, but it's not "pro-only." If you can already do a basic finger palm, you can learn these displays with a little practice.

Do I need special props?
No. You just need standard sponge balls. Any size will work, but standard 1.5-inch or 2-inch balls are easiest to start with.

What skill level is this for?
This is for people who know the basics of sponge balls but want to start doing more complex routines. It moves you from "one ball" tricks to "multiple ball" magic.

How long does it take to learn?
The concepts are simple. You can understand the "how" in about 15 minutes. Getting your hand to look relaxed while doing it usually takes a few days of practicing in front of a mirror.