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The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » Step right up! » » Table set-up (0 Likes) Printer Friendly Version

Louis.P.M
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Montreal, Canada
218 Posts

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Hi there,

I've been looking for a table perfect for a pitch joint.

I found a model that interests me, but of course I'd like to hear the pros oppinion on this.

I have a friend who could build me a colapsible table reminescent of the Viking Magic's Pro Table for under 200$. http://www.ronjo.com/magic/VM-312.html

The thing that I like with this model is that it is equially good for pitching (I think) than for a magic show.

The under compatment won't have doors but it will be perfect to store my stock. The above compatment (available only when the table is opened) is perfect for preparing decks and 2CM combos ready to be sold. Also, I was thinking about have a lockable drawer with a cash tray (just like in cash register). This way, I'd have no trouble keeping my change, and I could simply close it, lock it, and get everything in the car. It's more safe (I supose) than walking with 200-800$ in my pockets. I also think it implicitly conveys a professional feel to the joint.

One thing. The table he showed me had 4 wheels on the bottom for transportation. Would it be better if there was 2 wheels near the bottom but on the side? So the table could be tilted then pushed like a dolly. Also it would prevent the table from moving accidently if pushed.

His model also have a handle on the top when closed (So it's on the front when opened) to facilitate in lifting the box.

I awaits your ideas, suggestions, threats...(forget the last one Smile)

Louis-P
sethb
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Inner circle
The Jersey Shore
2841 Posts

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Louis, the table you're describing sounds like a pretty good idea. I'm not sure there is a perfect table, there are probably pros and cons to any setup.

The cash drawer you describe would be neat, but I have always gotten along with just a waiter's three-pocket waist apron. The height looks good; you don't want to be continually bending over to do your demos, that's a sure recipe for back trouble. But with a table that's only about 20" x 12", will you have enough room to demo comfortably?

The only other drawbacks I can think of here are weight and angles. A table like that has got to weigh at least 40-50 pounds. Add a gross of Svengali decks and you are looking at some serious weight! Even on casters, this might be tough to manage.

As for angles, the small rectangular table would allow people to get beside and even behind you. That's not a problem with performing the Svengali Pitch, but I am not comfortable with people on my sides or behind me, where I can't see them well. That's one of the reasons I went for a longer, rectangular table, it keeps the specs in front of me where I can see them.

I use a 2' wide by 4' long folding table from Sam's Club, about $40. It has a hard plastic top and an enameled steel frame with adjustable legs, so I can use it standing or sitting. It folds to 2' square and has a good carry handle, making it easy to transport. Even though it's pretty light, probably about 20 pounds, it's proven to be very sturdy and durable, and it has held up well for three years.

When I'm working inside, I throw a $15 red velveteen cloth remnant over the table and it looks like I just got back from the Magic Castle in Hollywood! I also put some rubberized drawer/shelf liner under the cloth to keep it from sliding around; this also provides a soft surface with a little "give," making it easier to pick up coins and cards.

So that's my table setup, which has worked well for me. Don Driver's Svengali Pitch DVD also describes and explains how to make a very good collapsible pitch stand, it even has a schematic to work from. I'll be interested to see what other folks are using. SETH
"Watch the Professor!!" -- Al Flosso (1895-1976)
"The better you are, the closer they watch" -- Darwin Ortiz, STRONG MAGIC
Fitz
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Phoenix, AZ
476 Posts

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Although I don't use it to pitch magic (yet) here is my table. Its inspired by Don's pitch joint and a blackjack style table. I use it at close-up gigs.

http://www.topsecretentertainment.com/Table

I hope this inspires you
Fitz

P.S. I am asked if I sell this table often, it was not my original intent so my answer is this; If anyone wants one I can make them for around $600 each and I would need at least 4 buyers. To keeps costs low I would need to build six at a time and they are very time consuming.
I have a daily web show all about magic at http://FitzMagic.info
Louis.P.M
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Montreal, Canada
218 Posts

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@Sethb,
FOr the angles could some yellow "caution" tape be used as a limit? COuld it also attract attention or on the contrary scare potential buyers?

For the height: Yeah, I'm 6'2'' so I absolutely need something a little higher.

I may do some close-up magic show so that's why the table interests me as a "Everyday tool". I can perfectly understand that for pitches only, it won't matter if it folds up, holds stocks or does coffee as you have all the time in the world to pack/unpack (And I believe most flea market let you park your car right behind your spot anyway).

@wizard_of_oddities:
Wow! That's a really nice set-up. It looks professional and sturdy. I can plainly see the Blackjack connection Smile All you need now are cup-holders in the pads. Is your top locked into place or is there some risk of it slipping a little?

Anyway, I'm young, I got cash to spare ( a little...don't get excited ) So I guess I'll do what many here suggest from time to time: I'll give it a shot and tell you what I find out Smile
DonDriver
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1790 Posts

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Just about any style table will work to pitch off of.Just make sure its STURDY,thats the big thing as kids will be hanging on it all day and you can't pitch and be thinking of keeping kids off your joint at the same time.

("keeping kids off your joint" that didn't sound right...but you know by now what a JOINT is in the pitch business)

wizard_of_oddities: Good looking joint.


Later,Don
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