The Claw – Mark Hayward

Mark Hayward has invented several spin top tricks, but this is the one he’s most well-known for in the spin top community. Yes, that’s a real thing.

Pro tips:

1) You can only do this trick with a top that has a totally smooth low-friction surface (no tape), and doesn’t have anything dangerous like the Duncan string groove, or crown tabs that can catch your fingers.
2) It’s WAY easier with long nails. Depending on your finger shape and skin stickiness, it may not be possible to do this trick without nails.

markhayward.net

Diner Cup Launch – Mark Hayward

We’ve been after this trick for the whole year up to this point! We’re so glad to finally have it. This trick used to be a lot easier when there were more Pizza Huts around.

Pro Tips: 1) You need glasses that have internal ribs at the bottom that keep them from jamming together, and provide a little space between the walls of the nested glasses. 2) These glasses are too big. This trick is WAY easier with smaller glasses. If this is all you can find, remember that you have to take a REALLY big breath. 3) Some people prefer to spin the upper glass before blowing. The spin will stabilize the glass when it is in the air and make it less likely to tip over.

markandjonathan.com