Plates of any description and size, from the delicate tea-plate to the burly wash-basin are eligible for the dance ([Fig. 10]).
The following is the easiest way to start twirling a plate. Take a dinner-plate and stand it upon its edge on the table with the bottom of its upper edge resting against the extended forefinger, as in [Fig. 11]. Describe a small circle with this finger rather quickly, and the plate will follow its motion. Continue passing the finger round and round, accelerating the motion with each revolution. The plate will then begin to revolve very quickly. Take your finger away when it has acquired sufficient impetus, and leave the plate to dance by itself.
Begin learning with one plate. You will find that as it loses its impetus it begins to go slower and slower, tending to settle bottom upwards upon the table. But this is where your skill must be proved in preventing the fall from lack of momentum.
Whilst the plate is revolving and before the first signs of falling are apparent, touch the bottom of the plate fairly near the center with the tip of your finger, moving this latter round in the direction followed by the plate. This will have the effect of preventing the fall, and will send the plate dancing on with renewed vigor.
Considerable experience will be required to perform this successfully, as the exact spot to be touched with the finger can only be ascertained after much practice.
Large and heavy plates make the best dancers, and it will be necessary sometimes to use two fingers when preventing the fall, for the pressure must in all cases be firm and steady. An ordinary plate is better than a soup-plate, for not only is it more elegant, but its even poise renders the revolutions steadier.
Practice the use of both hands, remembering, however, that the plates will revolve in different directions according to which hand you use. The right hand will send a plate twirling from left to right, whilst the left hand causes an opposite motion.
The plates will keep admirable time to regular waltz music, and produce a pleasing effect. Keep your eye upon all of them, being ready to render assistance to any of your dancers that show signs of subsiding upon the table.