The Pen Through Anything History & Tips
The Pen Through Anything – A Modern Classic in Pocket Magic
Few effects in close-up magic have made as much impact—while fitting comfortably in your shirt pocket—as the Pen Through Anything. This versatile illusion has been a favorite among working magicians for decades, and for good reason: it’s visual, powerful, and examinable… depending on which version you’re using.
Let’s dive into the evolution of this modern miracle and look at the styles and options that have emerged over the years.
The Original – John Cornelius’ Pen Through Anything
In 1993, legendary magic creator John Cornelius released his now-famous Pen Through Anything—a cleverly gimmicked writing instrument that gave the appearance of a pen penetrating cleanly through a borrowed bill, only to leave it completely unharmed.
What made it unique? The method differed significantly from Timothy Wenk’s Misled, the popular pencil-through-dollar effect that gained fame thanks to David Copperfield’s television performance.
Cornelius originally released a high-end "Mont Blanc"-style version. As other companies began introducing similar effects, Cornelius updated the design to a sleeker, executive-style "Cross" pen—lighter and more practical for everyday use.
One caveat: this version required a switch. The gimmicked pen couldn’t be examined directly, but Cornelius cleverly included a matching, ungimmicked pen for use in other parts of the routine. The idea was simple: allow the spectator to handle and write with the ordinary pen early in the performance. Later, when the penetration effect is performed, the gimmicked version is used—but the pen is already "proven" in the spectator's mind.
Still, some performers preferred a cleaner handout option, and Cornelius listened.
The Perfect Pen – Examinable After Performance
Enter the Perfect Pen—a version that could be handed out immediately after the penetration effect. This model featured a mechanical "lock" that secured the gimmick in place, making it virtually undetectable to a casual examination.
It was a game-changer for magicians who wanted to maintain flow and audience trust without fumbling for switches. With proper handling, the gimmick was invisible, and the pen could be passed around freely.
Doug Edwards' Wonder Pen-A-Tration – Sleight of Hand Meets Simplicity
Around the same time, magician Doug Edwards offered a clever alternative: the Wonder Pen-A-Tration. This pen used a simple sleight that allowed the magician to hand the pen out for full examination—no switches or locking mechanisms required.
This version used a common ballpoint pen style, making it ideal for more casual settings. As a bonus, the pen could also be used for effects like the Electronic Rating Pen or Double X.
The trade-off? The penetration depth is slightly shallower than the mechanical or switchable versions—but for many, that’s a small price to pay for full examinability and clean handling.
One Minor Note on Realism…
A subtle but noteworthy observation: in most of these versions, the pen appears to pierce the bill and then remains stationary. If a real pen were forced through paper, one might expect to see it move back and forth slightly in the hole. Some alternative methods (often requiring folds or covers) do allow this kind of movement—but usually at the cost of natural handling.
Still, for most audiences, the visual of a pen cleanly penetrating and exiting a bill without leaving a trace is more than enough to earn gasps.
Styles at a Glance
While there are now dozens of variations on the market, most fall into three basic categories:
- Style 1 – Switch Required: Like the original Pen Through Anything, these versions use a gimmicked pen and a matching normal pen. Ideal for structured routines and versatile handling.
- Style 2 – Examinable Locking Gimmick: These pens, like Cornelius’ Perfect Pen, allow immediate examination thanks to clever locking mechanisms.
- Style 3 – Sleight-Based Single Pen: Versions like Wonder Pen-A-Tration rely on a simple move that allows the pen to be examined, with no switches or locks required.
Final Thoughts
The Pen Through Anything effect is a staple in modern close-up magic—whether you favor mechanical gimmicks, sleight-of-hand, or a combination of both. It’s visual, direct, and always packs a punch. Best of all, it’s the kind of miracle you can carry with you every day, ready to perform at a moment’s notice.
If you haven’t added one of these devious pens to your arsenal yet, consider it an investment in your ability to amaze—anywhere, anytime. Magic Methods stocks several versions of this now classic effect.
🎩 Ready to Perform Your Own Pen Through Anything?
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