Glorpy

Magic trick consisting of a silk pocket handkerchief which is laid down on a table. After commanded by the magician, a ghost shows its presence by coming to life under the handkerchief, lifting it and making it dance around. This effect is also used often in demonstrations of spirit writing when shown in a seance or mentalism context. Glorpy was created by Madblood Creations (Bill Madden and Bernie Trueblood) circa 1960. It was declared the "Trick of the Millenium" by Genii, the conjurer's magazine.

Method

To perform the trick, a wire piece is inserted into the hem of the handkerchief, taking up one corner. When it is folded in a certain way (depending on where the handkerchief is to rise), the magician grips the wire and turns it to make it rise and fall. A more subtle way is to make a kink in the wire such that the wire will turn when that portion is pressed down.