After reading the Aug 2012 Genii Conjuring article, I decided to build the prop Jim Steinmeyer describes. I built it these past two weekends (made it sorta old school looking). The original design was from Charles Morritt. He created this in 1919, think its better than a "Botania". In pic 2 you can see the illusion is not perfect, but pretty *** good (pic was from about 3' away). I used Red Oak for the trim and Hardwood (Mahogany Plywood) for the body. I trimmed it out with antique brass accents. The Rose bush was actually more difficult to make than I thought it would be. It started life as a 24" cheap christmas tree from Michaels art store. Stripped it down and wired the roses on with other green silk plants. Pretty neat eh?

Here is a link to some larger photos: http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welco......sharview

Click here to view attached image.

Another Pic (looking down the tube).

Click here to view attached image.

Looks really nice!

Thanks Michael, first prop I have built in 35 years.

Stu

I hope to see more from your workshop!

Wow! That's a nice looking prop!

Nice work, what is the effect?

Thank you for the compliments. I worked hard on it. The effect is similar to a Botania. Essentially the Rose Bush is produced from the empty tube (you can also produce Silks, etc). You may start the effect by using a similar single rose to rose bush as well. I know Jim Steinmeyer did the effect in 2008 (I believe) at the Magic History Conference, but there is no video I can find of his performance. I will be posting a video of a performance of it as soon as I practice it a bit more. Want to ensure I am performing it smoothly.

Stuart

Looks great. I am in the process of building one myself. It is my first project of that type and am learning a lot about woodworking, painting and assembly.
Again great job

Craig

Very nice! Great job!

Thank you all for the compliments. It appreciated, empowering and encouraging.

Stuart