Flip a Pencil

So you've met a pencil flipper. You wish you were him, don't you? How come he was blessed with such an amazing talent and you weren't? He wasn't. He started the same way you have: he saw someone do it, and he couldn't wait to learn how. It's not as hard as it looks. It's like learning to ride a bike, but without the pain.

Steps

  1. Find the right pencil. Everyone has a preference, but there are a few guidelines, especially for beginners. First off, beginners should always start with the basic wooden pencil; no pens or mechanical pencils. Keep these factors in mind:
    • Length - Use a new unsharpened pencil.
    • Width - Stick with the common pencil width if possible.
    • Weight - Varies with each brand, but don't worry about that for now.
    • Texture - Doesn't affect the technique, but the wrong texture can leave residue on your hands. A clean, smooth, and shiny surface is best.

      You can break these rules later.
  2. Hold the pencil correctly. You will only be using your index finger, middle finger, and thumb. Let your ring and pinky fingers move freely as long as they don't interfere. Place the pencil between your middle finger and thumb with your thumb on top. Your thumb must be fairly stiff and let your middle finger relax and curl naturally so that it faces your palm and the pencil falls across its face, and so your thumb is closer to the eraser than your middle finger. Press lightly against the eraser with your index finger and slide the pencil until your thumb is approximately a centimeter away from your index finger. Remember to keep your thumb straight, your middle finger relaxed, and your index finger pressing lightly.
  3. Flip the pencil. Just like a slingshot or bow and arrow, there is no flick movement; your hand must be still at all times; and your middle finger will do all the work, not your thumb or index finger. Now, you're going to press your middle finger inward towards your palm, and the eraser should slide against your index finger. Once it leaves your index finger, lift your index finger away so that it doesn't interfere as the pencil spins around your "stiff" thumb. Try it few times, and don't worry about catching it yet.
  4. Catch the pencil. As it completes its spin, close your index finger around it so that it is caught between your index finger, your thumb, and your middle finger.



Tips

  • Before flipping, relax your middle finger.
  • Keep your hand perfectly still.
  • Keep your thumb perfectly still.
  • Only press lightly on the eraser.

Warnings

  • Some people tend to move their hand with the pencil, thinking that the pencil won't spin otherwise. This is a myth. This will only throw it off.
  • Some people also tend to press hard with their index fingers, thinking there isn't enough pressure to give it sufficient spin. This is also a myth. In fact, with a little more practice, you'll be able to flip it without touching the eraser at all.

Things You'll Need

  • A pencil and some patience

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