Perform the Floating Bill Trick
Learn to make a bill appear to float using clear thread, tape, and simple balance techniques while exploring static electricity and clever illusions.
Step-by-step guide to perform the floating bill trick
Step 1
Clear a flat workspace and place all materials within reach.
Step 2
Cut a piece of clear thread about 15 centimeters long.
Step 3
Tie the two ends of the thread together with a small knot to make a loop.
Step 4
Lay the bill flat on the table and place the thread loop across the center of the bill lengthwise.
Step 5
Press a small piece of clear tape over the loop onto the center of the bill to secure the thread.
Step 6
Slide the loop so it rests on top of a straw or pencil held horizontally so the bill hangs down.
Step 7
Hold the straw at eye level and move it slowly to practice making the bill drift and sway like it is floating.
Step 8
Rub the balloon on your hair or a sweater for about 10 seconds to build up static electricity.
Step 9
Slowly bring the charged balloon near the hanging bill without touching to make the bill lift or flutter from static.
Step 10
Share a photo or video of your floating bill trick on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
Can I substitute the clear thread or tape if I don't have them?
If you don't have clear thread use thin fishing line or transparent nylon sewing thread cut to about 15 centimeters and if you lack clear tape use a small piece of regular tape pressed firmly over the loop at the bill's center as in step 4.
What should I do if the bill keeps slipping off the loop or won't stay level?
If the bill slips or won't hang level, press a slightly larger piece of clear tape firmly over the loop at the center of the bill (step 4) and tighten the knot so the loop sits snugly on the straw or pencil (step 5).
How can I adapt this activity for younger or older children?
For younger kids use a paper replica of a bill and have an adult pre-cut the 15 cm thread and apply the tape (steps 1–4), while older kids can try longer loops and different straw heights to create bigger drifting effects (steps 5–6).
How can we make the Floating Bill Trick more impressive or unique?
To enhance the trick, record a video to share on DIY.org (step 9) while experimenting with rubbing the balloon longer (step 8) or suspending multiple bills by adding extra thread loops to the straw for a coordinated floating display.
Watch videos on how to perform the floating bill trick
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How to Float or Levitate a Bill
"Young Child Learns to Float Safely | Early Swimming Confidence 💧"
Facts about magic tricks for kids
⚡ Static electricity can build up to thousands of volts from simple rubbing and can make very light objects lift or stick.
🧵 Invisible thread is often thinner than a human hair but can still support lightweight items like a bill when set up carefully.
🪄 Magicians use invisible thread and tiny loops to make bills look like they float—most of the trick is angle and timing!
💸 Most paper money is actually made from cotton and linen, which makes bills flexible and ideal for folding and balancing tricks.
🤫 The best illusion secrets are simple: misdirection, steady balance, and practicing your angles so the audience never sees the support.
How do you perform the Floating Bill Trick?
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What safety tips or variations should I consider?
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