Pen Or Pencil by Michael Chatelain

This extremely visual illusion is based on a simple principle and uses two writing implements – a transparent Bic pen with a cap and a wooden pencil – instead of playing cards. In front of the audience, only two objects remain in your hand: the pen and the pencil. The tension arises because a seemingly impossible transposition occurs directly in the audience's line of sight.

How it works (brief overview)

• Choose between the Bic pen and the pencil; hold one in your hand and set the other aside.
• Remove the cap from the Bic and explain that you will make it disappear by blowing – without any additional aids.
• Blow, open your hand, and show that the cap is still visibly in your hand, while the Bic seems to have disappeared.
• Explain that it wasn't the cap that switched, but the Bic – and that the Bic will reappear in the other hand or later from the pocket where you previously put the pencil. The transposition is visible and astonishing.

This routine does not involve any muscle pulls or hidden movements – the switch happens right before the audience's eyes, creating the impression that the Bic has vanished without a trace and the pencil suddenly appears in the other hand.

Why this illusion is so powerful

The transposition of places happens directly in the audience's line of sight, without any hidden processes. The two objects are clearly different, making confusion seem impossible. The effect ends with a visible Bic returning from the pocket, while the pencil remains visibly in the other hand – an absolutely tangible, visual deception.

Advantages and applications

• Perfect for close-up or street magic – it impresses any audience instantly on the spot.
• The switch can be learned in about five minutes, ideal for quick everyday routines.
• Instant reset – ready for the next performance immediately after the effect.
• No pulls, no manipulation – just the Bic and the pencil in your hands, nothing else.
• Option to hand both writing implements to the audience for examination at the end to confirm the illusion.
• Delivered complete and ready to use.