Chip tricks, like juggling, requires a type of muscle memory. This means it takes a lot of practice and many repetitions before you can perform them consistently (there’s no other way around it). At first, these tricks will seem impossible, but with time and practice, they will become second nature.

To me, chip tricks are a way to relax and stay focused while sitting for hours on end at the poker table. I’m a fidgety person. I need to do something with my hands. Since juggling is usually frowned upon by the casino staff, chip tricks fill that void nicely.

Here's some general chip trick pointers:

• Use a gentle touch. Don’t grab the chips too tight, or force them into place.
• Get some good, casino-quality chips to practice with. (It is nearly impossible to perform some of these tricks with cheap, light-weight plastic chips.)
• Some tricks are easier to perform if the chips are old, and have worn-down, rounded edges.
• It always feels better when you do your shuffling on a good, cushioned playing surface. Check out the link below for an interesting way to practice your chip tricks at home.