Hi: What's the best rope size for the Professor's Nightmare? Thanks, Marty.

I'd think the bigger the better, the more they stretch...

Thanks Magicmaven, I'll use that suggestion. Marty

My set is about 1 foot, 3.5 feet and 6 feet long, but I do a bunch of other stuff that requires those general lengths. They seem to work very well for PN though.

I use the longer lengths as well because it is more visible to a large audience. I then use the long piece to move into a cut and restored effect. If I am working tables, I would use much shorter lengths so I can carry them in my suit jacket pocket.

Thanks all for the suggestions. I'll give'm a try. Marty

I've got a file saved from Allmagic.com a few years ago that shows how to do a Professors Nightmare setup on the fly IN ANY SIZE (depending on the length you start with). This is a very neat routine because there is no prep (other than coreing the rope to give better handling, I use clothesline), no gaffs, etc. Start clean. End clean.

I start with about 9 feet of rope, do some flourishes, do a C&R, then go into
the Nightmare as a finale.

:magicrabbit:

If anyone wants the ALLMAGIC file, just PM me.

My routine starts with 8' of clothsline.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

Hold out the rope in front of you with your arms opened in 'applause' pose. There should be a bit of slack in the middle of the rope. Cut it to this length, plus about 8 inches sticking out of each hand (or a bit longer, then cut it down bit by bit until it feels right to you). For the shortest rope, you want the longest piece you can cut that can still be easily palmed as a knot if necessary for your routine. The middle sized piece can now be determined.

Note: I may be suggesting a smaller 'largest' rope than others on this post, because I find that a rope too long can be unwieldy and look cumbersome instead of graceful. Also, the audience, IMO, should be able to see both ends easilly and clearly as you hold it up. I find that a rope with the end dangling on the floor as you hold it up looks suspicious.

But this all depends on the exact routine you're doing, so get some cheap rope, try different sizes, and use the set you like the best as a template to cut your good ropes. Best of luck!

These are great suggestions!!!

I can't wait to try some of them.

Thank you.

Peter