Basic grips: thumb, fingertips, and flat grip

Holding a coin in a controlled manner is part of the foundation of palms and other sleights. In this lesson, José Arcario brings together an introduction and three positions that are studied separately.

The four videos work on placement, pressure, and the appearance of the hand. The content focuses on the grips and the transitions they allow, without developing a full routine.

The thumb pinch

It explains how the coin is secured in the thumb web. A key detail is keeping the thumb parallel to the fingers to maintain a natural appearance.

José discusses audience angles and rear cover. The placement is repeated in a close-up explanation to study the relationship between the coin and the hand.

The fingertip pinch

The next position uses contact between the fingers to hold the coin. The entry from a grip between the index and thumb is shown, along with how to retrieve it.

Positions between different pairs of fingers are also discussed. The goal is to find a comfortable placement where the coin does not peek out from the back of the hand.

It is presented as an indirect sleight: it serves for transitions and other handlings, without producing a magical effect on its own.

The flat grip

In the flat grip, the coin is held against the fingers using lateral pressure. The explanation shows which fingers are involved and which ones can remain free.

José insists on avoiding an overly rigid hand. The learning process aims to hold only what is necessary and maintain a position that can later be integrated into other moves.

What to practice

Each video allows you to isolate a position and observe its relationship with cover and finger freedom. The introduction explains why these details affect the subsequent work on palms, changes, or transfers.

You need a regular coin suited to your hand size. The lesson presents the positions from their initial placement; practice consists of recognizing the contact points and adjusting the pressure.