PLAITED MOEBIUS BANDS, by Geoffrey Budworth, self-published in 1990
[Strictly, the correct spelling for the German topologist Augustus Ferdinand’s surname is Möbius]
This is a homemade, illustrated A4 booklet of 24 pages, typed on a manual typewriter and stapled into a soft card cover. Its author, inspired by evenings in the Magic Circle’s central London HQ, has created a self-working effect that replicates the usual paper- or ribbon-cutting trick, often referred to as ‘Afghan Bands’, with soft cotton ropes. Using False Braids (A#2585½), and subtly joining the four ends of those braids, one or other of three different Möbius Bands can be made. Then, by knowingly inserting fingers, the bands can be peeled apart, zip-like … to create, firstly two separate loops, then two interlinked loops and finally one large loop containing a simple overhand or thumb knot (see A#2591). Suggested patter for the performer is included. How to reassemble the bands for re-use is also explained. Frankly, I prefer to use paper or ribbon for this party trick, but Geoffrey’s contrivance is an ingenious alternative.
John Shaw