Stiff Rope - White (TM)

The magician displays a piece of rope coiled over his hand. He stretches the rope between his hands and pretends to hypnotize the rope. One hand is now released and the rope stands rigid like a stick. The magician merely blows on the rope and it falls down limp once again. Present it as a bit of serious magic or a comedy item...as you fancy.

A classic that's so easy to do!