Serious question:
How do I tell the sze of my thumb?

Tony

Do people make comments about you having abnormally large or miniscule thumbs?

Stick it out and see how many lifts you get offered in an hour:

1 to 2 - small
3 to 6 - medium
6+ - large

Seriously:
Most folk come in at medium and the band (made of metal)has a little give in it which will help you to adjust to your unique digitus primus.

I suppose, if you're really unsure, you could always send Bob a scanned copy of your hand....

I have been looking for a swami writer and decided to get this. Best one I have found hands down!. I am glad I found this thread. Great writer at a great price.

I recently reviewed Solari's Swamis for The Linking Ring magazine. Although my review has not yet been published (there is usually a 2-3 month lead time between submission of a review and its publication), here is what I said:

“Swami” is a term used synonymously with “nail writer” in reference to a device used, primarily by mentalists, to accomplish secret writing. These, which are hand-crafted by Bob Solari, are the type usually referred to as “band” writers. Other styles are known variously as “nail,” “boon,” “scarab,” “swami” or “thumb” depending on their design which dictates the manner in which they are worn.

These are nicely made but are no different from the band writers I have that were made by various others. While all are adjustable to some degree, Bob’s are available in three distinct sizes — small, medium and large — each of which is further adjustable to ensure a good fit. Such devices are individually designed to write with either pencil lead, or Listo pencil grease/wax (sometimes referred to as "china markers"), or ball-point pen. Bob’s are Listo style and an extra supply of the Listo grease/wax is included along with illustrated instructions showing both how to “wear” it and how to replace the “lead”.

Similar writers, as well as those of the other designs/types are available from a variety of sources including YFD. Unfortunately, which particular design/type is best for you is something that I’m afraid can only be determined through trial and error. Prices will vary widely depending on type, quality and manufacturer, but a quick check of some other sources reveals that Bob’s are reasonably priced when compared to other writers of comparable quality.

Detailed descriptions of the various designs/types of writers can be found in many books but, by far, the most comprehensive reference work is The Nail Writer Anthology by Thomas Baxter. Originally published as a downloadable e-book it has recently been published in a hardcover edition and is available from H&R Magic Books as well as YFD. In addition to covering the history, evolution and types of writers it contains routines by many of the leading exponents of their use, as well as sources, etc.

Great review, thanks DC.

Noob question: How easy it it easy to ditch? Like leaving it in your pocket when you take out whatever you wrote on? If it fits snugly that's a good thing when you're writing but I wonder if it presents any difficulty when you need to get rid of it.

Solari’s Swami Secure by Bob Solari $19.95- Available from bobsolarimagic.com

Description: This is a mentalist's secret weapon! It is a secret writing device that will fit on either your right or left thumb. It has been designed to stay securely in place while writing. It is slightly adjustable for most size thumbs. Each unit is hand crafted and hand painted by Bob. Each unit comes with an extra supply of black writing wax (Listo).

Review: This is a well-made Listo-style band writer that is well priced. The gimmick is virtually undetectable, very stable to write with, adjusts well to stay securely in place on either the right or left thumb (available in small, medium and large) and can be used in a variety of mentalism effects. The bold writing is effective from close-up to stage. I feel $19.95 is a bargain and it should last a lifetime.

Bob provides all of the details you need from touching up your Swami Secure if it ever scratches to information for ordering additional writing wax. Although mentalists may know how to make a similar style, this is well-made and ready-to-go the moment you receive it. No routines are provided as it assumed you have a working knowledge of "Swami Gimmicks.” I have been using the Swami Secure in combination with Houdini’s Silent Prediction (message on back of the Houdini Card) with great success. Highly Recommended.

I have found it easy to ditch when you go to your pocket.

Anyone got a UK based source for this? Shipping from U.S is really pricey. :-/

Here you go... http://www.listo.com/pencil.htm



Ray

Or just use a china marking pencil.

I have the Vernet one in a TT. Cn anyone that has used both compare?

I picked this up from Bob after reading multiple praises about it.

I posted elsewhere that I think it's wonderful. It's just perfect for me.Bo has a clear photo of it on the site so you know exactly what you're getting. It comes with an extra supply of the listo. Writes bold to be seen clearly. It's adjustable and it stays in place. Easy on, easy off.

http://bobsolarimagic.com/shop/Mentalism......20Secure

Same as above, anyone know where I can get a band style in uk .