Great fun refurbishing an old illusion!

We needed something for a "space" theme

Now that we have a warehouse/workshop space, I've been spending a lot of time there. I've done a few small projects, most of them to do with organizing the space. I'm also rebuilding my show case, I'll post about that once I'm done.

But the funnest project so far has been to refurbish an old dollhouse production illusion into a science fiction type of device, perhaps a space ship and a transporter pad combined.

Original front panel

The dollhouse illusion is typically an actual dollhouse that is shown empty, then a person appears from inside. There is also a version in the Victory Carton Illusions book, but this is not that type. As a side note, I did build a version of that illusion using heavy duty foam core. It's looks great and it still in good shape after more than 5 years of use. That book should be in every magician's library, it's a great source of low cost illusions made from cardboard.

This one was in just ok condition. It needed some hardware replaced and strengthened, especially the hinges on the front doors. The wood panels were in usable shape, no warping or breaks. The biggest problem to deal with was the design. It was pretty bad as you can see.

After a few weeks of intermittent designing (as my schedule at Circus Camp allowed), I went into full gear over this July 4th break to work on it full-time. Here's how it looks now...

Get started creating your own magic book to sell

You probably already have everything you need

Back Cover Sample

When commissioning a Learn Magic instant author kit, I'll need a few things from you to customize it and make it your own. You probably already have them, so it should be pretty easy.

I use Dropbox to transfer and store your files so you'll have access to them also. When our project is begun, I'll set up a folder and send you an invitation link so you can use it to send me files. There is plenty of storage space (about 1tb), so send the largest files you have.

Of course I'll need your contact info. Website link and phone number are usually all that's needed, sometimes not even the phone number. Email address also if you don't have a contact form on your site.

A hi-resolution (300dpi) logo is very helpful, especially on the front cover. If you don't have a logo, you're in luck. I love designing logos! When you purchase my instant author kit, I will create a logo for you at a reduced rate. See elsewhere in this blog where I created a logo for Kyle Groves and the Party People Magic Theater. You can also check out my portfolio to see samples of other logos I've designed. 

As you can see in the photo of the back cover, the third paragraph is a short bio highlighting your main "selling points". Keep it short and simple, no need to include many details. I can edit it to fit in the space.

Phil Ackerly's Magic You Can Do - Customization Project

Just finished customizing Phil Ackerly's book

click to embiggen

Phil Ackerly, from the San Francisco Bay Area in California, is ready to start selling his customized magic book to increase his show income. Phil has been voted the Bay Area’s best entertainer 5 times... pretty impressive! His site is www.MakePhilAppear.com, a pretty clever name for a magician's website.

He had very distinct ideas about how he wanted his book designed, and I was able to make it all happen. When I work with you to customize your book, I make sure it's just what you want.

His book is now available online, check it out at www.CreateSpace.com/7330454

In the process, Phil's attention to detail highlighted a few things that I updated in the main template, including an opening welcome page. Click below to see it...

Instant Author Kit - New & Improved!

You can be an author and not write a word!

One of the ten new cover designs available.

For years I've been selling my Learn Magic instant author kit. Up until now it's been a series of PDF files that the purchaser then edits themselves with their contact info, name, photos, etc. It's been well received critically...

This is without a doubt the BEST back of room sales book I have ever come across. What makes this so great is that you get SO many options to customize it. This is a no-brainer if you want to have a personalized magic product to sell after your show.
Paul Romhany, editor Vanish Magazine.
Review page 190
October/November 2013 issue.
VanishMagazine.com

But it hasn't sold nearly as many as I first expected. I got to thinking, how could I make this more appealing. Why are people hesitant to buy? Then I realized...