David writes:

‘It is only recently that I have tried to learn magic, but the thing I find most perplexing, is where should I start? Where can I learn the basics. There are so many incredible things out there, it is easy to get lost and become confused. Most people dream of winning the lottery, or becoming a famous singer, or the like. Not me. I would love to be able to amaze and astound people with card magic. That has to be the ultimate goal. But I feel clumsy, and when I look at the hands of magicians on TV, I see slim and nimble fingers. Unlike mine.’

It’s great news that you have started to learn. You’re in for such a fun time! Learning how to do magic scores over many other hobbies as you can instantly start performing to a level that will impress your friends. That’s a far cry from the ‘painful’ learning period that beginners (and the people they live with) have to go through when learning a musical instrument.

As a place to start, check out these recommended first magic tricks for beginners.

You may also find these posts useful:

Where to Start Learning magic

How to start learning coin magic

You mention that you are worried about your hands. There’s no need to worry. Larger or small hands are no barrier to learning sleight of hand.

The main skill you will learn is dexterity in your fingers, a light touch, and the timing placement of your hands. These factors are not influenced by the size of your hands, just by the amount of practice you are prepared to put into your magic training.

Like anything worth learning, you are going to be clumsy at first. Your hands need to develop a light touch and you need to perfect the timing and flow for any moves you work on. Keep working on a magic practice drill.

As you work on your sleight of hand, choose some self working magic tricks, so you can begin performing right away whilst you work on your performing style, and confidence.  Remember that it’s not a race. You build up skill over the long term. The only difference between you and a professional magician is the number of hours spent on practice.