The Mechanics Grip

The mechanics grip is one way that magicians hold playing cards when they are doing card tricks.

By holding the cards in the mechanics grip the magician is in a comfortable and natural looking position. the hands appear relaxed however the fingers in are in the optimum position for certain movers called card slights.

To learn how to hold the cards in the mechanics grip, we need to number our fingers. The index finger is 1, the second finger is 2, the ring finger is 3 and the pinkie is finger number 4.

How to do the Mechanics Grip

1. The card magician holds the deck of playing cards facing downwards in the left hand, if you are left handed simply reverse the order.
2. The thumb rests alongside the long edge of the cards
3. Finger 1 rests along the top edge of the cards furthest from the magician.
4. Fingers 2, 3 and 4 rest along the other long side of the cars opposite the thumb.

When holding cards in the mechanics grip it is best to not hold too tightly. Your grip should feel comfortable and relaxed. the mechanics grip secures the cards whilst leaving your dominant hand free to do the moves or slights needed to do card tricks.

Once you have perfected the mechanics grip you will find it is a natural way to hold the cards and as we move on through the levels of card magic slights you will see how versatile this grip is. A good way to practice the mechanics grip is to simply sit and watch television whilst hold your cards.