Month: October 2007

Another RNT2 Winner!

I have owned a copy of “The Amazing Miracles of Shigeo Takagi”, published by Richard Kaufman for years and one effect in that book that intrigued me was “The Solid Cup”. It was not just the routine that attracted my attention, but the interesting cup that was needed. Having owned many cups and balls set, it was very unusual. I did see a simple Walnut one go on ebay recently and now RNT2 has made a very few sets turned from very exotic woods.

Jake made this one from Asian Rosewood Burl and it is absolutely gorgeous! As I have said in another RNT2 review, the company is the leader in handcrafted wooden apparatus made with a vast choice of rare exotic woods. The images may give you an idea of both the beauty of the wood and the skill of the turner. The fit between the two sections is tight, maybe too tight, but don’t mind it at all, so there is no danger it separating during the routine before the final revelation.

The set came with a wand (not shown as not to steal the stage from the star) and a set of crocheted balls. No routine was included, but get a copy of the Takagi book, a great book for your magic library. Thanks Jake and company for another most welcomed piece to my collection.

Click here for more information.

A beautiful addition to my vase collection

As many viewers to this wonderful site may know, I have posted in the past some images and reviews on several gorgeous vases from Colin Rose (Five of Heart) and an incredible pillbox by Angelo Iafrate (Majic). This latest addition comes from RNT2 and it’s worthy of my vase collection. The wood is Red Heart and African black Ebony. I have always been a fan of beautiful exotic woods. Mel Babcock used them in his line, but RNT2 has definitely taken it beyond everyone else with a large assortment and choices (click on "Exotic Woods in Stock" at the RNT2 site).

There is definitely very high quality craftsmanship here. A few almost invisible cosmetic issues I do find, but easily correctable with some buffing and everything then looks flawless; I tend to be a "perfectionist". However, Jake and company offers great personal service and quickly responsive to correcting any major issues till one is fully satisfied. Jake quickly replaced my first vase when I noticed a crack in the shell. I had mentioned to him that I wasn’t too happy with a teak olive vase I bought some time ago (after he first asked me about that purchase) and he immediately offered to replace it without having to return the other one. This is great customer service! I definitely visit the RNT2 site regularly now to see what’s new.

Click here for more information.