Q&A for How to Hold Fire

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  • Question
    How can I do the bright flash fire trick in the hand?
    Zach Waldman
    Professional Comedy Magician
    Zach Waldman is a Professional Comedy Magician based in Los Angeles, CA. He has over 20 years of experience as an entertainer and performer. He is a comedian, magician, and mentalist, and he customizes his show to be distinct for every audience he performs for. His clients include some of the biggest corporations in the world, including Microsoft, Google, BusinessWeek, Absolut, the L.A. Kings, Anheuser-Busch, and more. He has been a member of the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA) since 2001, and performs regularly at the Academy’s clubhouse, The Magic Castle. For the past 20+ years, Zach has been a mainstay at many other reputable Los Angeles theaters and comedy clubs including the El Portal, the Comedy Store, the Improv, Flappers, and the Laugh Factory. Before moving to L.A., he attended the Player's Workshop of the Second City. He received his degree from the University of Central Florida.
    Professional Comedy Magician
    Expert Answer
    To execute the flash fire in hand magic trick, start by preparing the flash cotton, a highly flammable material similar to flash paper but made of cotton. Shape a small amount of flash cotton into a compact bundle. Then, acquire a finger flasher—a metal tube with a flint in it used to generate sparks. Load the prepared flash cotton into the finger flasher, ensuring it's securely positioned for ignition. Optionally, add a sparkle additive to enhance the visual effect. Conceal the finger flasher in your hand and, when ready, strike the flint to create sparks. The sparks will instantly ignite the flash cotton, producing a dazzling ball of fire. Practice the trick to perfect your timing and technique, adjusting the materials as necessary. Prioritize safety by keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and being mindful of your surroundings. With practice and caution, you can astound your audience with this captivating fire magic trick.
  • Question
    What kind of soap should you use? And how dangerous is this type of trick? Should I be concerned?
    Community Answer
    A mild liquid dish soap will work best, as it needs to be evenly distributed through the water to form a solution. And if you're careful and follow the proper steps, yes! As long as you completely coat the hand you're lighting, the soap in the solution will keep the flammable chemicals separated from your skin, while the water will make sure you don't get burned.
  • Question
    How long can I keep the fire in my hand without burning myself?
    Community Answer
    As said in the directions, the soap protects your hand longer than the fire lasts. So there is no worry of getting burned unless you do not completely cover your hand with the mixture. Also be careful of any dropping of the mixture, as it is flammable.
  • Question
    What can happen if I have not covered my hand completely with the solution? What damage can it cause?
    Community Answer
    It can cause anywhere from first to third degree burns. The latter can result in nerve damage and permanent scarring.
  • Question
    Can I hold fire anywhere other than my hands?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but it is incredibly dangerous and should be avoided.
  • Question
    How long will the fire burn for?
    Community Answer
    It depends on how long you can hold it, most people can hold it up to about 10 seconds. If you keep practicing you should be able to hold it up to about 20-30 seconds, but it takes a long time to get to this stage.
  • Question
    Do I need a lot of alcohol if I want to make a big flame?
    Community Answer
    No. Using a lot of alcohol may result in burning your hands, especially if the amount of alcohol is more than water applied. Do not change the ratios advised in the article.
  • Question
    Where can I buy rubbing alcohol?
    Peter Janowicz
    Community Answer
    You can normally buy rubbing alcohol in a pharmacy store or sometimes in a regular supermarket.
  • Question
    What is a flammable gas?
    Spaceship
    Community Answer
    A flammable gas is a liquid that can ignite upon contact with sparks or open flame.
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