I was practicing Paul Harris' Killer Coin Matrix, in preparation for a (non-paid) show for an informal gathering of layman friends. Rehearsals went well, but I was looking forward to replacing my close-up pad, which had become quite worn out. Just before we left for the get-together, the mail arrived, and there was the brand new Wilson close-up pad I had ordered.

To my dismay, when I performed the trick, I discovered that the coins would not slide as easily as they did on my old close-up pad. As a result, the first "pick-up" (if you're familiar with PH's move) was very awkward and amateurish. Wish I had known that before purchasing the pad. (Also wish I had been able to practice with this mat, prior to performance!)

OK, what all this is leading up to, is: Can you recommend a close-up mat (my preferred size is 12" x 16" or 14" x 16") which is suitable for coin work?

Take a look at Pattrick's Mats here: http://pattricksmagic.com/index.php/worl......istings/

Excellent close-up pads and priced reasonably. Just about every size you could imagine plus he will make custom sizes if needed. Also, Pattrick has great service and will work with you.

Jim

I agree 100% with Jim's recommendation! I have been using one of Pattrick's mats for the past year and it is outstanding.

Dean Dill, a coin matrix expert, makes the perfect pads. Go to http://www.deandill.com[/b]

I have one of deans pads. I bought it when I purchased deans triangle. a very nice pad.
todd

Are you looking for A hard Pad ( Like Dean's), Or one you can roll up ???

Thanks, guys, for those resources. David: yes, a roll-up pad would be preferable.

Sounds weird. A large computer mouse pad from Office Depot works pretty slick and it's CHEAP!

Then I would go with Pattrick's Mats That's what I use!!!

Pattrick's Mats is the way to go. They're great!

I second: Pattrick's mats.
Have been using one for two years now.
They are washable too.

At least get the plush model.

I have been using 2 of Patrick's pads since 2003. One is bright yellow the other is a more conservative crimson color.


Harris

I second this. You could probably even get him to send you a small piece before you spend for the big one.

This problem is why I gave up on close-up mats. So I bought a placemat from Big Lots. It's a paisley pattern on one side, and dark blue on the other. It's perfect for coins, and cups & balls. However, I am interested in getting one of Patrick's mats after seeing the site. Thanks for that!

Doug

Thank you, Gentlemen, one and all, for those solid recommendations. I will be contacting Pattrick today.

Yea I carry One of his 4.f. 40 th. pads rolled up in my day bag all the time!

The Café is a great place! The info is fantastic. I'm starting to branch out into some coin learning (I'm nearly 100% card work) and purchased a reverse matrix routine. I tried it on one of my card closeup mats and discovered none of the moves work on it! Then serendipity I tried the move on my small mouse pad and it worked! The mat needs to be firm I found -- no give, and the mouse pad is just right. I need to go find a large one now. Thanks to Atom3339 for confirming my discovery.

Phil