A practical question I got asked was "Why are DoveLite Silk streamers marked 8" instead of 9" wide?"

It was just a matter of integrity. The streamers actually are closer to 8" wide. We know that most silk merchants mark them 9" wide and that is for another logical reason. The silk is 36" wide. Split into four streamers the math would say it is 9" wide. Seams take part of that. We have no bone to pick with the others. What they are doing makes sense too. However, it seems that everyone agrees that when the roll of silk is split into eight streamers, the streamers are marked 4" wide. So, it just keeps life simple at DoveLite to call 2 x 4" wide, 8" wide! We're magicians, not math wizards. Our purpose is not to rock the boat, but just to serve magicians.

A useful rule of thumb that may prove helpful to you:

A silk streamer (8" x 30 ft. or 9" x 32 ft., depending on labeling and supplier) needs about the same load space as a pack of cigarettes. A can like frozen juice concentrate comes in makes a great holder. Remove both ends, fold the streamer lengthways in half (makes it 4" high) and roll it tightly. Place it in the juice can and start a corner coming from the center. It should come out of the container like Kleenx tissues do from a box. Make sure that there are no places on the can to snag your silk streamer. Yes, you can even flatten the can some, if it fits the space better.

Enjoy your silk magic.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

Your straightforwardness and honesty is, as always, very much appreciated, Bob. Your feedback in this forum (along with Richard's) could be easily be put together to form a book on silk magic. Once again, I thank you on behalf of many here.

Jimmy

Jimmy,

Thank you. People have no idea how many hours you give freely of yourself for The Magic Café. You are valued! Some of us know of your contribution to magic too. We're glad you're here.

Bob