Build Your Own Card Fountain For Under $20

With card fountains priced anywhere between $60 for a basic model and $130-$500 for an upper-end, radio controlled version, you can save some bucks by making your own device.

And if you're so inclined and have the time and tools, this DVD shows you how. David Allen and Scott Francis call themselves "MacGyver Magic," and the title is so appropriate.

While the price for raw materials may be low, the process is fairly involved. The authors don't provide an estimate of the time, but I would say that this is at least a day project. That is, if everything goes right.

By the way, this is a basic card fountain with no fancy radio controls. You simply press a button on the device and the cards go flying.

There's some shopping involved, but most of the parts should be found in hardware and radio parts stores. The authors purchased many of the electrical parts at their local Radio Shack. However, I've found lately that my local Radio Shack is no longer carrying the traditional electronic parts that they’ve offered in the past. But I'm sure these parts can be easily purchased via the internet.

The instruction is thorough. Perhaps this project would have been better explained as a book with formal plans, but it's just fine on DVD. Just be prepared to pause the DVD and continually go back to the section where you’re working. You’ll also need basic tools such as a drill and various bits, a hot glue gun, saw, soldering iron, screwdrivers and pliers.

The authors have done an amazing job of adapting parts and common household items - some of their creative work is downright ingenious. Allen and Francis also have created a light hearted video that is fun to watch.

If you're handy and have the tools, you may opt to build your own card fountain and save some bucks in the process. But if materials cost $20 and you pay another $25 for this DVD, you may not be all that far ahead of purchasing one off the shelf.

-Wayne N. Kawamoto

MSRP: (US) $25

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Dealers can purchase from Murphy's Magic Supplies, Inc.