I do this as a performance piece, in particular, performing it at this year's annual MathsJam gathering[0]. I do know people who have worked out how to do it from first principles. I became aware of it about 18 months ago, interesting to see it getting some publicity. I've been trying, but as yet have been unable to find the original source.

Tanya Khovanova[1] wrote about it some time ago, although I can't find the exact link, but doesn't remember where she got it from.

Nice puzzle.

[0] http://www.mathsjam.com

[1] http://blog.tanyakhovanova.com/