Magic tricks using cups. Tricks you might want to try for entertainment or performances.
We’ve gathered ideas for magic tricks using cups and glasses that are perfect for beginners who want to try magic for the first time.
From the classic cups and balls to coin-through-glass tricks, quick and easy effects, and routines that require a bit of practice, there’s a wide range to choose from.
These tricks use props that are simple to prepare, so you can give them a try the same day you get inspired.
If you want to expand your magic repertoire or are planning to perform magic for an event or entertainment segment, be sure to use this article as a reference.
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Magic tricks using cups: 21–30 tricks you’ll want to try for parties and performances
A magic trick that changes the drink in a cup
It’s a highly impactful magic trick that turns a drink in a clear glass into plain water, but the secret is so simple that even small children can do it.
The tea’s color was actually just the color of a tinted film.
I think it’s a high-quality trick that can easily fool adults as well.
A magic trick where the ball in the cup teleports
It’s a magic trick where a plastic bottle cap moves between paper cups.
Prepare three paper cups—red, blue, and white—and put the bottle cap in one of them.
Without lifting the cups, you then slide them around so the bottle cap appears to move into a different cup.
The method is very simple: make a hole in a spot on the cup that the audience can’t see, and by moving the cups skillfully, you switch the contents.
Watch the video, practice, and give it a try.
Magic tricks using cups. Tricks you’ll want to try for entertainment or performances (31–40)
Make a picture appear on a plain cup
When you stack plastic cups together and submerge them in water while keeping an air layer between them, the writing on the inner cup somehow becomes invisible.
Then, as air escapes through a hole and water flows in, the text instantly appears.
This same principle could be applied to various magic tricks!
A coin passes through a water-filled glass
It’s a magic trick where you pour water into a glass and make it look like a coin passes through the outside into the inside.
In reality, a coin is already placed along the rim of the glass from the start, and the way you layer your hands and the refraction of light in the water keep it hidden.
Then you take out another coin from your pocket, cover it with your hand, and align it so that it appears to have penetrated the glass and ended up inside.
Because the method is right under the audience’s nose, pay close attention to proper presentation—choosing the right glass, hand positioning, and angles.
Water from newspaper
Prepare a newspaper, two paper cups, and a clear cup.
First, cut off the rim of one paper cup.
Then hide the rimless cup behind the newspaper.
While making it look like you’re pouring the water from the clear cup onto the newspaper, actually pour it into the paper cup.
Next, open the newspaper and secretly stack the paper cups behind it.
Set the paper cups down and pretend to transfer the water from the newspaper into the paper cup.
Finally, transfer the water from the paper cup into the clear cup.
Watch the video to see the full sequence and give it a try.
Coin penetration magic using magic props
It’s a magic trick where a coin appears to pass through a plastic cup, and it uses a prop that even beginners can handle easily.
The coaster-like item is actually designed to hold a coin, making it look like the coin shoots out from inside.
Unless someone has exceptionally sharp eyesight, they won’t notice how it’s done.
Even if the secret is revealed, it still seems like something everyone can enjoy together.
Juice transforms into water
Like a wizard! Here’s an idea to make juice transform into water.
When colored juice suddenly turns into clear water, anyone would be amazed.
It’s a humorous magic trick perfect for school festivals and cultural fairs that attract both children and adults.
You’ll need three types of plastic bottles, water, mouthwash, and dechlorinating tablets.
When adding the mouthwash to the water, you can adjust the amount to vary the concentration—experiment to find what works best.
It’s a simple and fun trick, so give it a try!