This didn't seem to fit into any other forum.

How does one develop the ability to snap one's fingers loudly and clearly?

I like to use a snapping of the fingers to indicate the "magic moment" in a routine. It is such an enjoyable sound, and the tools necessary are always close at hand. Thus, I have been ever envious of performers capable of summoning forth a veritable thunderclap from their fingertips.

So I come to The Magic Café, in search of enlightenment, and thank those magi that contribute to the discussion.

Currently, I can get a clean sounding crack from my left hand, however my right will only produce a dull, thumping noise.

No easy answer, practice, practice, practice, the more you practice the stronger your fingers will become, then the more pressure you can apply and more strength you can exert to make the snap.

Dry fingers are important. You might try rubbing your fingers on an alcohol pad (secretly hidden) and giving the alcohol time to dry before snapping your fingers and see if that helps.

It's as similar to riding a bike as you can get. You can only practice. My finger position is thumb and middle finger together, with the index finger giving it an extra push. Make sure that the middle finger and the thumb do not meet right at the tips, but more like the flesh of the thumb contacting the first bend of the finger.

Ahem... excuse me, but I personally found out that it works better with really wet fingers (the surface of the fingertip gets bigger, making more sound therefore).

I'll put in my 2 cents on the snap.
My experiments show that while the pressure of the thumb to middle finger is important, equally if not more important is the position of the ring finger. If you hold the ring finger too far back there is no hollow portion of the hand cavity for the pop to resonate in. Try moving the position of the ring finger up gradually toward the base of the thumb. You will find that the pitch of the snap will go higher and the cavity will enhance the sound of the pop. I have always had a very loud pop, both snapping and clapping. Yes, I am a percussive person, happy snapping!

I think Jerrines advice is good. I also can snap my fingers pretty loudly. I always could, but it got even louder a few years back when I got a...don't laugh... A CLAPPER!! You know those goofy things that you use to turn on and off lights?

I got one a while back for a light that was a pain to get to. I always felt like a schmuck standing there clapping my hands. Until I found that I could activate it by snapping my fingers. Pretty soon I could put the thing on the setting that requires the most noise and still work it by snapping.

So like everything, I believe it starts with good mechanics and practice helps. Maybe you should go buy a clapper. LOL.

I'll make this simple for you.....have children! You'll get PLENTY of practice with snapping your fingers. I find that my snap can work miracles now that I've had 2 children.

And, of course, just like magic.....PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE!

no, no, me too! read my post above.

What an interesting question. Anyone see the "snapper" on "America's Got Talent" ? Bet he'd have some tips.

I'll bet he has a few children!