Very new to card Magic, and I had a question about preparing your hand . how do you guys prep your hands for show or practice? I have noticed that the condition of my hands makes a big difference when practicing . if my hands are dry, it's so hard to manipulate the cards, but if the hands are moist, it makes it a lot easier. any suggestions or tips would be appreciated
Newbie question "prepping the hands"
- Thread starter Ginnger1
- Start date
I use a light coat of cornhusker's lotion before I leave the house for a show. This gives it time to dissipate so it doesn't gloop the cards, but gives my hands a little moisture.
I personally use a product called sortkwik on my thumbs, first, second and third fingers and I find that helps my handling. I sometimes moisturise but I make sure I remove the majority of it before touching the cards.
I don't do long shows so I wouldn't know. If I need moisture and I don't have the stuff I can either get moisture from glass or at the very least use saliva.
Fair warning: make sure you really rub your fingers together after you apply it to work out most of it. I once used too much and it made my cards too sticky to handle properly.
I appreciate you guys taking the time to answer this newbie question.. thanks again
Being a beginner is both amazing and frightening so I hear ya. I've been at this for around 4 years and I've barely cracked the surface but it's an enriching journey!
The key is always to remember that everybody was a rookie. It's why I try to help if I can: I needed a whole lot of help too. Still do quite often need more help than I can find. I don't have the seniority to welcome you to the forum, but I am more than happy to welcome you to magic. 
I'm 47 and just getting started basically. I just had my first child 2 years ago and he loves the card magic . I do find this very exciting, and yes you can say i do start things a little late . lolol
General advice:
Having trouble with a sleight? Try different brands of cards, they all have different characteristics.
Wondering about something? Search old threads, gobs of info there including discussions of hand lotion. I recall Golden Touch being recommended by some. Though, as above, I find it most convenient to just use Dove as everyday hand soap.
What to read? Watch this free video https://store.theory11.com/products/what-to-read-jason-england
Instruction? Check out Foundations video series. https://store.theory11.com/collections/tricks#?artist=Jason England
Done all that? Learn a memorized deck, it will change your life.
Dave
Having trouble with a sleight? Try different brands of cards, they all have different characteristics.
Wondering about something? Search old threads, gobs of info there including discussions of hand lotion. I recall Golden Touch being recommended by some. Though, as above, I find it most convenient to just use Dove as everyday hand soap.
What to read? Watch this free video https://store.theory11.com/products/what-to-read-jason-england
Instruction? Check out Foundations video series. https://store.theory11.com/collections/tricks#?artist=Jason England
Done all that? Learn a memorized deck, it will change your life.
Dave