I have , in the past just chucked everything, all my props etc in a suitcase, however this is now become not a good idea as the list of props and magic increases. I live in China and the shipping to get a case over here will be ...alot. How do all you organize and manage a normal suitcase, or can this not be done or do I have to invest.

Why don't you get one of those cases they use to carry semi professional cameras in, their not that big, and they have foam in them precut into a heap of blocks so all you have to do is take out the blocks you don't want to create holes in the foam, thus creating little compartments for different gimmicks and props

When I was a bit younger, I used a professional camera bag made of heavy, reinforced rip-stop nylon. The internal divider walls were velcro-edged, so they could be adjusted inside the bag. The bag is waterproof, light weight and very durable. It has film pockets on each end that will hold a set of Morrissey cups or a chop cup, final loads, etc. The front has two smalled pouches that are perfect for card decks, and other somewhat flat props, like a Dizzy Domino or the like.

It has both a handle for carrying as well as an adjustable shoulder strap, with a shoulder pad to make it more comfortable to lug around.

They are a little on the expensive side - about $100US, but well worth the price as they last forever.

Hope this helps!

Lee Darrow, C.H.

Thanks, I will have a look around Shanghai for these

There are some laptop carrying cases that might work well. Some have lots of seperate compartments with little holders and pockets.

Regan

Hi

Have a look in the Disco equipment shops - they have case with compartments for cables and mikes.

I use a small one for close-up.

Paula

Although camera bags are nice...I use one too...just be VERY cautious when leaving these exposed in your vehicle. They tend to draw a little bit more attention then say briefcases or an overnight bag. Thieves think,"Hey a nice camera" I think you know what I mean.

As stated above in regards to camera cases/bags being left in cars . . . this goes for the venue in which you are working as well. I fould leaving a camera bag in view catches more attention than a busking bag or brief case. . . go figure

In regards to the suitcase you can use foam and or thin plywood 1/8" to partition or use a couple of small platic parts organizers to house the smaller items that may bounce around in the larger space.

I still use suitcases to schlep stuff to shows. I just hang onto the boxes stuff came in and pack carefully so that everything fits together. For some of my props I don't bother with the box or if they are fragile I will wrap them in a towel. this works well for me and forces me to take some time and care when I pack up after a show. You are less inclined to forget a prop if it has to be in the case for everything to fit right and lock into place.

Hardware shops always have some great tool boxes that you can easily modify for your needs. Check them out.

No wonder I'm a magician. I use the good tool boxes for camera equipment!

Bob
Magic By Sander

I have found that Artist paint organizer boxes work really well and also they don't have the fishing tackle box look to them.

Brian