Review: Presto Pad

For table hoppers, the Presto Pad, by Hampels Magic Center, offers an attractive and useful portable close-up pad that not only provides a plush and soft surface to work on, but offers convenient pockets so you can carry cards, coins, pens and more.

On the Table

The pad is 11 3/4" x 8" (29.84cm x 20.32cm). You're constrained a bit when spreading a deck of cards or performing a coin matrix, but it provides a great working surface.

The fabric is a lush velvet that's stretched over a wood frame so it's rigid. The pad resides on the edge of the table and a piece of fabric, which contains pockets, dangles off the edge of the table (see picture).

The pockets provide a convenient place to carry some close-up props. When you're ready to move to another table, you can lift the pad up and the pockets fold against the pad. Props are fairly secure as long as you remember which way to orient the pad when carrying it.

Table It

When you arrive at a new table, you can simply lay the pad on the table and the fabric pockets will drop down into place. You have to hold the pockets as you remove items so wouldn’t want to use pockets as places to secretly hold and steal props during a performance.

The Presto Pad is a high quality item that lends a professional look and it's practical as well. The pad comes in black, burgundy, blue and green. MSRP: (US) $35

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