How to Make a Magic Wallet

This magic wallet puzzle toy uses the same concept as a Jacob's ladder toy. But, I think it's a lot more fun!!

Supplies and Equipment to Make a Magic Wallet

• Four 3" x 3¼" x 1/16" wood blanks (These measurements are for U. S. currency, so adjust them for other currencies.)
• 21" length of 3/8" to 1/2" wide ribbon, cut in three 7" lengths
• Proxxon Table Saw FET
• Proxxon Delta Sander
• Liquid wood adhesive
• Clamps

Instructions to Make a Magic Wallet

1. Use the table saw to cut four blanks a bit larger than a folded bill.
   
    
2. For U.S. currency I cut the blanks 3"W x 3¼"L. Adjust these measurements based on your currency.
   
3. Sand the blanks with the Delta sander.
   
4. The finished wallet has two blanks on each side. Decide which sides of your blanks will be the wrong (inside), and mark them.
   
5. Glue the first set of ribbon straps on the wrong (inside) side of blank 1.
   
6. Fold the straps to the right (outside) side of blank 1.
   
7. Place blank 2 on top of blank 1, wrong (inside) side up. Glue the straps to blank 2.
   
8. This is what your magic wallet should look like at this point.
   
9. Thread the center strap in place.
   
10. Glue both ends in place as shown.
    
11. Spread wood glue over the surface of both blanks.
    
12. Glue blanks 3 and 4 in place. Clamp until the glue is dry.
    

How the Magic Wallet Works

1. Lay a folded bill on one half of the wallet.
   
2. Fold the other half of the wallet over to close the wallet.
   
3. Open the wallet, and the bill will be captured under a strap/s.
   
   
4. Close the wallet again.
   
5. Open from the opposite side, and the bill will now be under the opposite strap/s. 
   

After a bit of practice opening and closing the wallet, challenge a friend. If you can get their folded bill under the straps without touching it, you get to keep it. Have them place the folded bill in the wallet, then amaze them when you close, then open the wallet!!

Carole