Furniture´s Card Magic Corner

Last post?: We are moving...

2010-10-14T12:19:00.002+01:00

to Tumblr:

http://magicianscorner.tumblr.com/

Tips on the Jog Shuffle - Erdnase

2010-08-06T11:14:00.001+01:00

Think of a card - The real stuff

2010-07-16T12:17:00.002+01:00

A friend sent me an article about a research that explores the idea that there is a ‘random number generator' in our brain, and that is possible to know the number measuring a person's vertical and horizontal eye position.

Maybe this can be applied to magic. Imagine that you ask an spectator to think of a card: first of all he needs to think of a number from 1 to 13 and stick to it, and then think of a suit.

If here are patterns in the position of our eyes when we think of numbers and suits it would be possible to predict the exact card!

Check the article on: http://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltex/S0960-9822%2810%2900018-7?large_figure=true

Ricky Jay and his 52 assistants

2010-06-01T00:26:00.001+01:00

Two of my favorite videos. Comments to come soon...

Close-up week magic on ‘The Late Show with David Letterman’ - May 2010

2010-05-25T16:39:00.008+01:00

Last week (17th to 21st May) was the "Close-Up Magic Week" on The Late Show with David Letterman.

The show featured some of the world's best sleight-of-hand magicians: magician Jason Randal, John Carney, Johnny "Ace" Palmer, Steve Cohen and Michael Ammar.

Ammar’ performance was interesting and he included several items from his current lecture. Jason Randal, on the other hand, seemed to be quite nervous, more than a professional should be. The fact that Letterman was continuously interrupting him didn’t help at all his performance. I wonder why he didn’t made use of the opportunity of doing a color change when he was challenged by Letterman to repeat the effect ‘without the plastic folder’.

My favourite performance was John Carney’. Only after watching his performance I read on Genii that he also encountered some problems when performing at the show. In his own words <> Genii Magazine

As you can see the line-up is top notch, however the material chosen for the performance was not up to my expectations. Probably everybody opted to play it safe because they know that Letterman is a pain in the b*tt as an audience 

See below the videos in case you missed the show!

Monday 17th May 2010: Jason Randal

Tuesday 18th of May 2010: John Carney

Wednesday 19th of May 2010: Johnny Ace Palmer

Thursday 20th May 2010: Steve Cohen

Friday 21st May 2010: Michael Ammar

Hofzinser Aces

2010-05-20T11:39:00.003+01:00

The effect
The 4 aces are placed on the table and a card is selected and lost in the deck. The aces are shown one at a time and asked if they match the suit of the card chosen. The ace that matches matches the suit changes into the chosen card.

Comments
The plot was popularised by Hofzinser almost 200 years ago. Since then magicians have worked on it and created hundreds of methods to achieve this effect.

I have been thinking about this effect for a while. In my opinion, to obtain the greatest impact with this plot the following is required:

a) The spectator must be left with the feeling that any card could have been selected.
b) The aces must be kept away from the deck prior to the moment the card is chosen.
c) The aces are shown in the fairest way possible, and the one that matched the selection' suit changes into the selection.

Darwin Ortiz has taken the most direct approach to the effect and meets the main points that make this effect “magical”' with the exception of the selection process of the card. In my view this is the problem with Darwin' version of the effect. I don’t think that the riffle force is the most adequate to satisfy the first requisite.

On Benjamin Earl's version the card is selected freely but the aces are not put aside: only when the card is chosen and lost in to the deck the aces are produced. This means that the second requisite is not met.

For this reasons I conclude that the best version of the effect is, in my view, Michael Skinners Telltale Aces since it meets all the requisites, however I still have a soft spot for Benjamin Earl' version.

My favorite solution
Benjamin Earl: can be found in Past Midnight Vol. 1

Resources
Also worth checking:
- Darwin Ortiz version in Cardshark (known as the original in german: Kartenkunste)
- Hofzy Hofsbourne by the Twins
- Roberto Giobbi' Card College, for an elegant and simple solution
- Mike Skinner's Telltale Aces. The beauty of this version is that the ace changes into the selection and back into an ace, and that the spectator can examine the aces

For more resources you can check Denis Behr Archive

I found also a thread in the Magic Cafe with some other versions of the effect:
[1] Aldrich, St.: Aldrich Hofzinser Ace Trick in The Linking Ring, vol.71, no.6, 1991,
p.75
[2] Avis, J.: The "Lost Ace" Trick in Fulves,K.: Epilogue #11, March 1971, p.1
[3] Bengel,R.: One-Shot Hofzinser; Apocalypse, vol.12, no.9, 1989, p.1687
[4] Britland,D.: Tell Tale Aces in Magigram, vol.9, no.1, 1976 "Ganson's Teach In"
[5] Busby, J.: Cased Prediction, 1978
[6] Chesbro/West: Flipper in Tricks You Can Count On, 1970, p.25
[7] Christensen, J.L.: Pyramide Aces in Pabular vo.3, no.12, 1977, p.447
[8] Cyprian Fr.: New Hofzinser Four Aces in Father Cyprian's Lecture Notes #11, 1989,
p.29
[9] Cyprian,Fr. Hofzinser-70 in Epilogue #17, 1973, p.7
[10] Cyprian,Fr.: Fr.Cyprian on the Hofzinser Card Problem, Fulves 1978
[11] Cyprian,Fr.: Hats Off To Hofzinser in Father Cyprian's Lecture Notes #11, 1989, p.28
[12] Cyprian,Fr.: Hofzinser's Departure in Garcia,F.: The Elegant Card Magic of Father
Cyprian, 1980, p.54
[13] Duffie, P.: Hofzinser's Alternative in Sadewitz/Duffie: Inspirations, 1987, p.98
[14] Duffie,P.: Hofzinser In My Pocket in Duffie/Sadowitz: Alternative Card Magic, 1982,
p.22 verwandelt! Stets verwandelt sich das As der gew„hlten Farbfamilie in die gew„hlte Karte.®

[15] Edwards, D.: Half-Shot Hofzinser; Apocalypse, vol.12, no.10, 1989, p.1703
[16] Elmsley, A.: Bare-Aced Hofzinser in Minch,St.: The Collected Works of Alex Elmsley,
Vol.I, 1991, p.253
[17] Elmsley, A.: Hoftwister in Minch,St.: The Collected Works of Alex Elmsley, Vol.I,
1991, p.49
[18] Fare, J.: Criss Cross Triumph in fare,J.: Card Tricks French Stile, 1977, p.32
[19] Fulves,K.: Dollar Hofzinser in Fulves,K.: And A Pack Of Cards, 1989, p.24
[20] Fulves,K.: In Re Hofzinser; Fulves,K.acket Switches (Part Five), 1977, p.294
[21] Fulves,K.: The Red Backed Hofzinser in Fulves,K.: Packet Switches, Part One, 1971
p.8
[22] Fulves,K.: Two Unsolved Problems in Pallbearers Review, 3rd Folio, Winter 1969, p.299
and 302
[23] Giobbi, R.: Hofzinser's Aces in MAGIE (MZvD) vol.67, 1987, p.108
[24] Goldstein, Ph.: Twisted Hofzinser, in Linking Ring, vol.68, no.9, 1988, p.104
[25] Hartman,J.: Hof Zingers (Optionzer - Ringer - About Face - One Stop Swapping -
Elastic Ace - Over and Over and Out) in Hartman,J.: Card Craft, 1991, pp.253-271
[26] Hartmann,J.: Hof Zingers (=Hotfinger - Face Lift - Ringer - Final Solution) in
Hartmann Packet Magic, 1972, pp.31-37
[27] Higham, J.: Hofzinser Triumphs In One Shuffle; Higham,J.: Technomagic, 1990, p.67
[28] Jennings, L.: Hofzinser Ace Problem in Patton/Vergillo. A Visit With Larry Jennings,
1982, p.3
[29] Jennings,L.: A Problem with Hofzinser in Maxwell,M.: The Classic Magic of Larry
Jennings, 1986, p.17
[30] Jennings,L.: Tell-Tale Aces in Ganson,L.ai Vernon's Ultimate Secrets of Card Magic,
1967, p.49
[31] Kaufman,R.: The Hofzinser Ace Tunnel, Kaufman,R.:The New York Magic Symposium
Close-Up Collection One, 1982, p.71
[32] Lees, W.:Hofzinser/Jennings in Lees,W.: More Professional Card Tricks, 1981, p.21
[33] Marlo,E.: Choice Transposition in The New Tops, vol.5 no.11, 1965, p.37
[34] Marlo,E.: Marlo's Third Solution To Hofzinser's Card Problem in Racherbaumer,J.:
Cardfixes, 1990, p.55
[35] McCarthy, D.: No Shuffle Hofzinser Aces; McCarthy, D.: The Underground Hits The
Bottom, 1984, p.45
[35] McCarthy, D.: One Shuffle Hofzinser Aces; McCarthy,D.: The Underground Hits The
Bottom, 1984, p.43
[36] McCarthy,D.: Another Hofzinser Aces, in McCarty,D.: Sly Glances, 1991, p.29
[37] Nelson,B.: Jennings Improved in Mandoza,F.J.: The Book Of John, 1978, p.119
[38] Racherbaumer,J.: A Case For Hofzinser in Racherbaumer,J.: Cardfixes, 1990, p.50
[39] Racherbaumer,J.: About the so-called Hofzinser Problem in Racherbaumer,J.: Arch
Triumphs, 1978, p.8
[40] Racherbaumer,J.: Decking Hofzinser in MUM vol.67, no.4, 1977, p.16
[41] Racherbaumer,J.: Decking Hofzinser Delux in Apocalypse, vol.1, no.3, 1978, p.27
[42] Racherbaumer,J.: Hofzinser Triumphs in Racherbaumer,J.: Arch Triumphs, 1978, p.6
[43] Sanvert,J.J.: Another Hofzinser Twist, Apocalypse vol.5, no.10, p.687
[44] Simon, F.: Hot Zinger in Simon,F.: Versatile Card Magic 1983, p.134
[45] Solomon, D.: Triumphant Aces in Racherbaumer,J.: Arch Triumphs, 1978, p.10
[46] Swinford,P.: Three Different Ways in Fulves,K.:Epilogue #9, July 1970, p.3
[47] Tropeano, D.: Hofzinser Triumphs!; Apocalypse, vol.7, no.6, 1984, p.928
[48] Walton, R.: Grown Up Hofzinser in Walton,R.: That Certain Something, 1979, p.2
[49] Warlock/Haxton/Ryland/Kort: Platform Hofzinser in The New Pentagram vol.2, no.10,
1970, p.81; vol.3, no.2, 1971, p.13;, vol4, no.4, p.30
[50] Yedid, M.: Sandwichange For Hofzinser, Apocalypse, vol.15, no.5, 1992, p.2071

The Zarrow Shuffle

2010-01-18T22:49:00.003Z

Zarrow shuffle was invented in the 1940's by magician Herb Zarrow. Is a sleight of hand technique that gives the appearance of being a normal riffle shuffle, but in fact leaves the cards in exactly the same order.

As David Britland states in Phantoms of the Card table "[Zarrow] created a false riffle shuffle of such beauty that it is quite possibly the only move to have been originated by a magician and that has found its way into world of card cheating."

The shuffle is easy to learn but difficult to master

RESOURCES

One of the best resources out there is the DVD by Mr Zarrow himself. On this DVD Mr. Zarrow teaches how to execute the shuffle in great detail and with many variations. Although the DVD centers around applications for magic most of the information can also be used for false shuffles, culls and controls during play.Find it here.

You can also find a description in Giobbi's Card College Volume 3.

For more references, please check Denis Behr Archive Resources on the Zarrow Shuffle:

There are many variations of the Zarrow shuffle, one of the most popular ones is describen in a manuscrit by Gary Plants: Gary Plants on the Zarrow Shuffle is now quite relevant.

False Shuffles: Wessmiller' False Faro with Cascade Turorial

2010-01-15T10:54:00.008Z

Jeff Wessmiller has published in his blog an excellent tutorial on an original false faro shuffle. It does look very similar to a real faro shuffle, so if you are a faro worker you will find it very useful. It's perfect for memorized deck work, maintaining a stack, story routines, or whatever.

The false shuffle is similar to the Heistein shuffle but applied to the faro shuffle and not to the riffle shuffle. As the Heistein shuffle, it can be done in-the-hands, up-close, and has good angles.

I don't want to finish this post without mentioning another very good false shuffle that can be performed also standing up: Guy Hollingworth's false shuffle, as described in Drawing Room Deceptions. Hollingworth's is a in the hands strip out Shuffle with waterfall, and is one of my favorites.

For table work false shuffles there are three main possibilities: the strip out, the push through and the Zarrow Shuffle. Not many people know the difference between the first two so I will provide more information:

* Strip Out shuffle: the deck is halved and the halves table riffled together. The cards are ostensibly squared, but actually are *almost* squared - the resulting measure of jogged cards constituting the "brief." One packet is then stripped out of the other in the opposite direction from which it was squared, hopefully simulating a cut.
* Push Through (or, Pull Through) shuffle, after the brief has been established (or, for quick shufflers, as the brief is established), the halves are angled very slightly and pushed (or pulled) through one another prior to the strip-that-should-simulate-a-cut.

Paul Cummings.

You can check the video at Jeff' blog by clicking here.

RESOURCES AND OTHER FALSE SHUFFLES
About the Zarrow Shuffle nothing better than check Mr Zarrow' DVD on HIS shuffle.
Gary Plants has an a book on the Zarrow. Check out Wesley James's work on Zarrow's work in Enchantments.

- Aronson Strip Out by Simon Aronson in his book Simply Simon.
- Artanis False Shuffle in Frank Garcia's The Close Up Magic of Frank Garcia volume one.
- Riffle Diffle and Super Riffle Diffle by Harry Lorayne. Can be found at the Classic Collection.
- Hank Miller shuffle
- Optical shuffle explained in Royal Road to Card Magic.
- World's Greatest Overhand False Shuffle" in GENII Magazine: December 2004: page 22
- G W Hunter's shuffle: great overhand shuffle.
- In-the Hands-Shuffle" full deck false open riffle shuffle. It requires a table or knee to "tap" the interlaced cards against, before a strip-out from Card College 3, P. 651.
- Tamariz's false overhand shuffle from Mnemonica

David Copperfield performing Harris' Immaculate Connection

2009-12-21T13:28:00.002Z

A beautiful performance of the linking cards effect by the great David Copperfield.

The effect: Centers openly torn from three playing cards, resulting rings are linked, unlinked, finally rings are torn to unlink, but tear is magically restored and all three cards may be examined.

The routine is based on Paul Harris' Immaculate Connection.

RESOURCES
The routine can be learned from:
- Immaculate Connection. Stars of Magic 1983.
- Art of Astonishment Vol 2 (1996)
- Stars of Magic Video #5

Tamariz Memorized Stack (Mnemonica) Trainer

2009-12-16T14:58:00.011Z

THIS BLOG HAS MOVED... TO TUMBLR

Hi everyone!

Several magicians have studied and proposed memorized stacks, for instance Martin Joyal' "Six Hour Memorized Deck", the Si Stebbins Stack, Richard Osterlind’s Breakthrough Card System, etc. Beyond all doubt, the two greatest magicians that devoted their life to the memorized deck magic are Simon Aronson and Juan Tamariz, both created incredible effects, methods, and developed their own special 'full deck stack'.

A quick clarification, the term "memorized stack" means that you can convert a card to its position in the deck and a position in the deck to the card that is found there. For this reason the Si Stebbins or the Osterlind' stacks don't really are memorized stacks because they are designed for an entirely different purpose: know the next card on the stack. The Si Stebbins in particular is what we know in the trade as a sequential or cyclic stack. The Joyal stack, on the other hand, is designed as a memorized stack that is very easy to memorize. Check An Introduction to Full-Deck Stacks for more detail.

If you are as big fan of the Tamariz' memorized stack as I am you will find this post interesting. The Tamariz memorized stack, also knows as Mnemonica Stack, when properly and imaginatively used, becomes a very valuable weapon in your magic arsenal. But, how can you check that you know the stack like the back of your hand? Tamariz proposes several methods in his book Mnemonica

I have prepared a training file on excel that I wanted to share with you. You may find useful if you are into the Tamariz Stack. And… there is a bonus: I have also prepared a training spreadsheet for ACAAN (Any Card At Any Number). The spreadsheet has three worksheets that are, hopefully, self explanatory: Tamariz Mnemonic Order, Check your knowledge, and A Card At Any Number (ACAAN) Trainer.

So go to googledocs, download it as excel (xls) and give it a go! Tamariz Mnemonica & ACAAN trainer

RESOURCES ON MEMORIZED DECK
- Grey Matters: Memorized Deck Online Toolbox. For starting Points and learning how to memorize a deck.
- Michael Close: Workers 5.
- Darwin Ortiz: Scams and Fantasies DVD BOOK
- Simon Aronson (check the 'magicians only' section in his website for a free downloadable Introduction to the memorized deck magic)
Bound to Please
Try the impossible
Simply Simon
The Aronson Approach (check Simon Eyes)
- Juan Tamariz: Mnemonica.

Oil and Water effect: Jennings, Lavand and Ascanio

2009-12-14T19:11:00.006Z

The oil and water effect is a must for all card magicians to know. The effect involves several red and black cards. The red cards traditionally represent the water and the black cards the oil. The idea behind the effect is that the colours are alternated but they refuse to mix. They continually separate even after a very visual fusion.

I differentiate two approaches to the O&W effect: the first one makes use of extra cards and can be very direct. The second one does not requires extra cards.

Today I will post three videos. Two of them them follow the 'non extra card approach' and one of them makes use of extra cards. You will need to decide what approach do you prefer. In my opinion both approaches, if they are well routined, don't necessarily jeopardize the clarity of the effect.

First two choices are the versions by Larry Jennings (February 17, 1933 – October 17, 1997) and Rene Lavand (b. September 24, 1928 in Buenos Aires). Last but not least is the Arturo de Ascanio version, known as Sleightless Oil and Water.

The Larry Jennnings' version is inspired by Ray Kosby's Cooking with Oil and Water. Certainly this version is not for magicians but I think it plays very well on a laymen audience, and that is what real magic is meant to do :). On the other hand Rene Lavand' is one of the most elegant and poetic versions. He tragically lost his right hand at the age of 9 in a car crash, just two years after having begun to practice magic as a young boy. Lavand endured a gradual entry into the magic world, self-taught because, in his own words, all books and techniques are for two-handed magicians. Watch and enjoy, because it cant be done any slower. Arturo de Ascanio (1929-1997) has an version call Sleightless Oil and Water. It can be found on the outstanding Magic Of Ascanio Vol.2 - Studies Of Card Magic by Arturo Ascanio that I fully recommend.

LARRY JENNINGS

RENE LAVAND

ASCANIO

What is your favourite O&W?

RESOURCES AND OTHER VERSIONS

Rene Lavand' version can be found on his Closeup-artistry Vol 1.

Larry Jennigs. The Complete Collection, Volumes 1 & 2" It's on the dvd: "Thoughts on Cards"

Arturo de Ascanio - La Magia de Ascanio vol 2. The first volume contains his theoretical work with essays on presentation, creativity, timing, misdirection, the psychology of palming, etc. The second and third volumes are dedicated to his effects and techniques incluiding his "culebreo" (spread) and four versions of his effect "La Dama Inquieta" (The restless lady)and his routine winner of the 1970 FISM gold medal.

Richard Vollmer effect - check Apocalypse, Vol. 1-5, page 673: three phases, impossible-looking separations, and a kicker ending

Guy Hollingworth version is on The London Collection DVD and Drawing Room Deception.

Michael Skinner "Oil and Water Ride Again" is described in Classic Sampler.

Harry Lorayne. Apocalypse, Sept. 1987 (Vol. 10, No.9).

Probably every magician has a version of oil and water. Other names worth mentioning are Anthony Owen, Sean Bogunia, Denis Behr, Helder Guimaraes, John Bannon (Shake well before use, a full deck version explained in Smoke and Mirrors), David Salomon (technicolor oil and water), David Regal (perfectly oiled), Derren Brown (check his Devil's Picturebook), Marlo, Roy Walton (Oil and Queens) (v.g the one that can be found in Marlo Without Tears), Paul Cummings (Oiled & Watered), Darwin Ortiz (Ultimate Oil and Water that can be found in Scams and Fantasies), Simon Lovell (Oily Snobs, on Disc 3 of his "The Methods Behind the Madness"), Chad Long, Alex Elmsey (from the Collected Works of Alex Elmsley #1), Jim Pace (Pennzoil and Water)

Armando Lucero on Japan TV - Empanada

2009-12-10T23:41:00.004Z

Armando performing one of the best effects in the last ten years: empanada. Armando's routine *The Empanada* is only available via his exclusive seminar.

I provide the description of the effect as it will be difficult to understand unless you speak japanese!

EFFECT: The performer sets aside the two Jokers and asks a spectator to think of any one of the remaining fifty-two cards. Placing the Jokers face up at the top and bottom of the deck, the performer causes them to magically melt through the deck so that they slowly come together. They continue to do so until they trap a single card: the thought-of selection. Amazingly, the Jokers locate the selection before the spectator reveals his thought-of card. All of this transpires with such economy of motion that no chicanery is suspected.

Armando Lucero - Official Website

Chalie Miller - Tabled Spin Pass

2009-11-23T22:04:00.002Z

RESOURCES
Dai Vernon - Ultimate Secrets of Card Magic. Pg 122.
For other table passes check Denis Behr Archive

Deck, Lies and Videotape

Juan Tamariz - FISM 2009 - Mnemonicosis

2009-09-30T13:37:00.002+01:00

tamariz juan -fism 2009
by fondouble

juan tamariz-fism 2009
by fondouble

Hieronymus Bosch - The Magician

2009-08-05T19:34:00.003+01:00

The magician by Hieronymus Bosch (1453–1516)

Principles of Sleight of Hand

2009-08-05T19:26:00.003+01:00

The Seven Principles are:

1. Palm - To hold an object in an apparently empty hand.
2. Ditch - To secretly dispose of an unneeded object.
3. Steal - To secretly obtain a needed object.
4. Load - To secretly move an object to where it is needed.
5. Simulation - To give the impression that something that has not happened, has.
6. Misdirection - To lead attention away from a secret move.
7. Switch - To secretly exchange one object for another.

And the effects:
1. Production
2. Vanish
3. Change in position, material, form, color, size, temperature, weight
4. Magnetism
5. Levitation
6. Penetration
7. Restoration 8 Remote control
9. Sympathy
10. Divination
11. Prediction

Sources: secret!

David Berglas - A card effect

2009-08-02T20:55:00.002+01:00

I have no words... well, just one: Genius!

BTW I have just found out that David Berglas is the father of Marvin Berglas of Marvin's Magic, the world's leading supplier of professional magic sets.

RESOURCESOfficial Website: http://www.davidberglas.com/
Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Berglas
Genii Magazine discussion on the Berglass effect: http://www.geniimagazine.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Forum=2&topic=000178&Number=0&site_id=1#import

Torn & Restored Transpo - David Williamson

2009-05-29T12:47:00.003+01:00

Some magicians have a signature effect. The 'one' trick they would perform if they have to perform just one!. David Williamson signature effect is Torn & Restored Transposition. An very intelligent effect that blends perfectly well misdirection, a transposition, a restoration and a 'reparation'.

I attended David' lecture last week, at Internation Magic in London: What a great lecture! He performed and went into detail of his Torn and restored transposition. The effect is really great an is also on his Sleight of Dave DVD.

David kindly replied to my post at The Magic Cafe regarding regarding how to reset the effect if you are table hopping:

Hi
Thanks for attending the lecture. What a fun night.

At the end of the T&R routine you are left with one torn, one folded (Flattened out w/creases) and one normal dupe. The creased card can be palmed off or dropped in the pocket. The pieces are ditched in a pocket during the routine. That leaves you with the 3rd dupe perfectly flat in a full deck- good to go.

Only 2 of the 3 dupes are destroyed, so you are left with 52. I used to add 2 more dupes to the deck on my way to the next table... when I was hopping.

RESOURCES
David Williamson at Wikipedia: click here!
Williamson Wonders by Richard Kaufman
Sleight of Dave DVD
FISM 2000 video - Hillarious

Matching the cards - Dai Vernon

2009-05-10T11:22:00.007+01:00

Matching the cards has became a favorite for many magicians. Leipzig asked Vernon to teach him this effect. The effect was later published by Lewis Ganson on 'Dai Vernons Inner Secrets of Card Magic' were Vernon states that this is one of his favorite close-up effects.

The effect is that a card, selected by a spectator, is placed face down on the table without its face being shown, then the performer endeavours to cut to the three other cards which match. He shows each card as it is found—three Eights—and places them face down on the table. When the spectator's card is turned it is found to be a King, so obviously a mistake has been made. However, when the three other cards are turned face up once more, they prove to be all Kings.

Lewis Ganson - Inner Secrets

If you like this effect I recommend you to check Rene Lavand' work on this one. He managed to combine both 'cutting the aces' and 'matching the cards' with a vernonesque style pattern about gambling and... just with one hand. His effect is knows as 'Historia de un Jugador' and can be found at his classic book Lentidigitacion vol II.

Below you can find a video of Michael Vincent' performance. As usual beautifully presented and impeccable handling.

RESOURCES
- Michael Vincent Official Website
- Michael' new DVD: The Classic Magic of Michael Vincent - Official Website Alakazam
- Roberto Giobbi suggested a wonderful handling of setting up the trick from a shuffled deck. It can be found at Genii Magazine, September 2005

New Magic of Japan - Five Times Japan - Richard Kaufman

2009-03-28T08:07:00.002Z

Hi there,

Today's post is about two fantastic books full of magic and innovative techniques: New Magic of Japan and Five Times Five!

New Magic of Japan is a compilation of magic from various magicians, so there is a variety of material for both stage and close-up.

Five Times Five follows the same scheme, and the effects are "quite unique and disarming". The contributors are Masao Atsukawa; Tomo Maeda; Ken Kuroki; Kuniyasu Fujiwara and Hiro Sakai.

The effects in both books include the use of coins, cards, silks, bills, ribbon, rubber bands and card boxes. I especially like some very original coin effects using a new sleight call "the bullet" (similar concept to the muscle pass).

There are many gems within the covers of these superb books, and great card magic!

Have a look at the videos below to get an idea of how the effects look like

Watch Magic of Japan in Entertainment Videos | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

RESOURCES
You can buy the book at the Genii Magazine Store: New Magic of Japan - Five Times Five Japan

Faro Shuffle Demo

2009-02-11T12:16:00.001Z

A faro shuffle is type of shuffle where the cards are placed end to end and caused to weave together. In a perfect faro, like the one shown on the video below, the deck is cut exactly in half and the two halves are perfectly interwoven, alternating every card from each packet.

The mechanics of this particular shuffle and the mathematical implications where initially put together by the card experts, Rusdick and Alex Elmsley. And later developed by Ed Marlo

The video below shows an out perfect faro shuffle. The amazing part is not just the skill required to obtain a perfect weave all the time but that after eight out faro shuffles the pack is back to its original order!!

WHERE TO LEARN IT?- Ed Marlo, Revolutionary Card Technique
- Harry Lorayne, Close-up Card Magic
- Roberto Giobbi, Card College Volumen 3
- Scott F. Guinn, The Magic of Scott F. Guinn, Vol. 1.

Table Faro

2009-02-07T17:22:00.002Z

Recently my efforts have given some results and I managed to 'master' the perfect table faro.

Comments welcome!

The Expert at The Card Table. by S.W. Erdnase

2009-01-22T16:11:00.003Z

Have a look at this. Our beloved book for free on the web:

http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=1FkUmSKUgnkC&pg=PR1&dq=erdnase&ei=_ph4ScyzGpHQMuuNoa0E#PPR1,M1

ps. I certanly do not agree with this!

Lennart Green - Close-up Show

2008-12-29T23:31:00.003Z

Hi everyone. Lennart Green, the Swedish card master and world champion of close up appeared at TED in February 2005. Luckily enough for all his admirers and followers (and I am one of these) the video is now at TED website and can be watched embed below.

His performance includes the most part of the material he used to win the 2001 FISM competition and is definitely worth watching.

- The best resource to learn Lennart magic is probably have a look at this Video/Dvd Collection. Follow the next link and have a look at Lennart Green Videos on Ebay. All of them are worth it so what are you waiting. He also have a booklet explaining his most characteristic technique, the snap deal.

Arturo de Ascanio - Slow Motion Aces and Restless Lady

2008-11-11T13:19:00.003Z

Today's post is about one of the most important card magicians of all times. He is known for inventing the Ascanio Spread. Ascanio called his move "El Culebreo" ("the Wriggle"). It was Fred Kaps who called it Ascanio Spread. Ascanio's original handling opened (spread) the cards all at once with a wriggling movement, like a flower opening, unlike many cardmen you see who will pull the cards into view one at a time.

Don Arturo de Ascanio y Navas (1929 - April 6, 1997) of Madrid Spain wrote about theories and concepts important to magic as technique, like "In-Transit Actions" and "The Law of Primary Motion". By profession, Ascanio was a lawyer and devoted his retirement to magic. He won the first place Close-up Cards at 1970 FISM in Amsterdam.
He is also famous for his Color Changing Knife routines. His book Navajas y Daltonismo (1958) translated in English by Jose de la Torre as Ascanio's World of Knives (1975)

His magic has recently been edited in 4 volumes. “The Magic of Ascanio”. This work offers you, the complete work of the Maestro who changed the direction of magic in Spain and influenced many successful performers.

His signature piece, “restless lady” (la dama inquieta) can be watched below:

And another video showing his routine Aces With Love, Ascanio take on Vernon's Slow Motion Aces

Links
- Buy Ascanio Books on Ebay

Color Change Combo

2008-08-27T08:38:00.001+01:00

A color change combo I like to perform in the offbeats

Coin & Silk routine

2008-08-27T08:37:00.002+01:00

My coin and silk routine, good for table hoppers.

Comments welcome

English Pennies for sale!

2008-08-17T21:55:00.003+01:00

Here guys!

I have a big bunch of 1967 English pennies available in case you are interested. They are perfect if you use a silver/copper coin

So follow the link below, bid and enjoy!
Click here for eBay!

Ultimate Topsy Turby Aces

2008-08-08T10:35:00.003+01:00

Can be found in Andrew Wimhurst Card Artistry - DVD. Based on Ed Marlo’s effect, Andrew’s variation provides more conviction than most other versions (with a brilliant and very bold clean up while revealing the third card!!). As a result the revelations of the aces and the climax are more staggering.

Sorry guys, I was not ready for a tabled faro ;)

F

Longitudinal Swivel Steal Again

2008-08-04T21:09:00.004+01:00

Hey,

After 1 month of hard practice my LSS has started looking much better. Of course this need to be done within a routine with the proper misdirection and chat.

See my video below. Your comments are appreciated!

Fred Kaps

2008-08-04T20:54:00.002+01:00

Here goes a video of the Fred Kaps, performing a beautiful effect to Brother John Hamman. The quality is not great but is really worth it o pay attention and learn from a magician that is among the best magicians in the world. He is famous for being the only magician to become FISM Grand Prix world champion three times.

The effect is basically a signed card to box routine but is wonderfully executed. The control is absolutely awesome (yes, is a bluff pass), and the misdirection is very well handled.

Enjoy!

Resources:
Fism World Champions
Fred Kaps'Official Website

TPC vs Longitudinal Swivel Steal

2008-07-08T23:15:00.003+01:00

Hi all,

I have been recently wondering whether is better Tamariz' TPC or the Longitudinal Swivel Steal (Ernest Earick). For this reason I have created the video below. Comments welcome!!

Ascanio' Masterpiece

2008-06-19T09:47:00.008+01:00

Hi guys, how are you?

I have a lovely surprise for you today, a video from the great Ascanio. As you will see this is from a TV program presented by Tamariz in Spain. The highlight is a matrix with two cards and four coins that is now part of my "repertoire".
Is a extremely beautiful masterpiece. The original can be found in Stars of Magic and was created by Ross Bertram. I really like the vanishes playing with the spectator. Enjoy!

And another surprise! I went the other day to Portobello Market and, you know what? I found the same african coin that Curtis Kam uuses in his Spellbound routine. So I have decided to honor Mr Kam and do my own version of his effect, here goes:

Dai Vernon Transpo - Time Machine (Freeman)

2008-05-22T23:37:00.004+01:00

Hi guys,

After a long silence I decided to try my new Mac cam and post a video of myself doing a quick effect. If this experience goes well more videos will come ;)

Just a direct effect from Vernon. Inspired in Steve Freeman (Revelations, vol 14) and Roberto Giobbi (Tamariz' Carta Blanca).

I have seen Giobbi performing this effect and I was surprised of the beauty of the plot. This is a direct transposition of two cards completely impromptu and if you add a nice presentation can become a miracle that will amaze your audience.

Let me know your thoughts!

More on "The Berglas effect"

2008-03-20T03:15:00.004Z

Yesterday I was reading "The Aronson Approach". No doubts that this is an incredible book and a must have for any lover of mnemonic/stack magic.

An excellent take to "any card at any number" can be found there. Simon's method is subtle and smart. The best is that can be done twice!

Other versions:
- A remarcable version has been tackled by Ken Krenzel in Close-up Impact
- T.A. Waters in Cardiadict
- David Regal' in Star Quality

Resources:
- Simon Aronson' Homepage
- David Regal on Ebay
- Juan Tamariz' Mnemonica

The Berglas Effect

2008-02-12T22:33:00.002Z

This is perhaps the most "legendary" card effect in the history of card magic performed by the world´s leading mentalist, David Berglas. This is something more than a simple any card at any number

No doubts that this is not the typical "pick a card effect". The structure and presentation of the trick take it to a higher level that any other traditional card trick, the magician handles the deck and never touches it again until the effect is finished... Are you able to find out the secret? If you do please let me know

According to David Britland in "The Mind and Magic of David Berglas"

it is so finely tailored to his own way of working that it is doubtful wheter he could ever describe the method so completely that some other performer could make it work from them

Resources:
- Check out David Berglas on Ebay
- David Berglas Fan site
- David Britland Blog has some related information regarding this effect. He wrote "Mind and Magic of David Berglas": http://cardopolis.blogspot.com/

The Cuso´s Blog I Photography Competion

2008-02-10T11:46:00.000Z

Hi guys,

Just a quick post regarding an interesting initative from our good friend The Cuso.

Have look at the I Photography Competition

The Prizes are as follows:
1st place: 12 Decks of Wynn Playing cards (6 red / 6 Blue)
2nd place: 8 Decks of Wynn Playing cards (4 red / 4 Blue)
3rd place: 4 Decks of Wynn Playing cards (2 red / 2 Blue)

Hurry up! You only have until 29th of February!!

Guy Hollingworth on false shuffling

2008-01-19T16:18:00.000Z

Watch the best false shuffles on the hands of a real artist: Guy Hollingworth

Guy Hollingworth-tricheries aux cartes
Uploaded by fondouble

Resources:

* - Drawing room deceptions: This acclaimed book contains beautiful and well contructed pieces of magic, includes also "The reformation" as shown in the video below.

* - Quartet is a booklet that includes and the gaffed card that will allow you to perform "Twisting the aces". A simple version with no gimmicks can be found at Drawing room deceptions or in Guy's DVD The London Collection.

* Guy Hollingworth's official website: http://www.guy-hollingworth.com/

* Guy Hollingworth on ebay

Arm twist - David Blaine

2008-01-08T23:07:00.000Z

Hi guys,

First of all happy new year to everyone!

To celebrate the new year I have a great effect for you. Luckily for you is not card magic but can be performed at the card table. You probably have already seen it: the spectator tries to rotate his arm, the magician shows that amazingly we can twist his arm 360 degrees.

The Twisting Arm Illusion was Performed by David Copperfield on the "Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, Harry Anderson on the "Tonight Show" with Johnny Carson, by Meir Yedid to win the 1988 S.A.M. Close-Up Magic Competition. However was popularized by David Blaine on "Street Magic"

Please don't disregard this effect for its simplicity, is an amazing trick that can go beyond normal magic for the eyes of your audience.

Personally is the only effect I teach when after some magic people insist in me teaching them something they can perform. I explain that magic is more psicology and misdirection than sleigh of hand and that the only thing necessary to do this is just a second to do the move. If you do the move at the proper moment it will be incredible and if not you will look stupid. Excellent lection on misdirection.

Resources
* You can learn the effect free at http://www.beginningmagic.net/david-blaines-arm-twist.html
* Meir Yedid released a DVD that can be bought here
* Have a peek at David Blaine´s Official Website

Double Card Handling - resources

2007-12-19T12:36:00.000Z

My christmas present for you! Copy the information from the links below because is gold for the card expert.

Do you want some resources on handling a double card?Please follow the links below:

Laydowns on table
Double card handlings
Tabled double lift

London International Magic Convention 2007 - Part 1

2007-11-28T22:30:00.000Z

Hi guys,

Some news: last weekend I was at the International Magic Convention hold in London.

I have to confess that I was impressed with the quality of the performers and pleased to assist to all the events and lectures, including among others:

* Al Schneider, the world famous creator of Matrix.

* Darwin Ortiz, presented a very interesting lecture. The good news is that Cardshark is again on print, you can get a copy here

* Francis Menotti was also there performing and lecturing. His approach to magic was very interesting and original. His website is worth looking at and have also a magician´s section. Have a look at http://www.francismenotti.com/home.html

* Just Alan lecture can be found at his website, http://www.justalan.com/TranscendingTechnique.htm)

And many more... a full review of the event to come

Welcome to a New Magic Webring member!

2007-11-17T23:48:00.000Z

Hi my lovelies,

Just a quick post to let you know that we have a new member of the Card Magic Webring!

Ye Olde Magick Blogge

Welcome Erland!

Please feel free to contact me if you have a site and you want to join this magic blog community!

The Unholy Three - Peter Kane / Darwin Ortiz

2007-11-10T11:25:00.000Z

Hi guys,

I am posting now a sensational trick by Peter Kane, inspired in Hofzinser and performed by Michael Vincent.

The effect can be found in Darwin's Cardshark. Darwin Ortiz is unquestionably of the top cardmen in the world today. In this book he offers you the chance to learn the routines that have earned him his living and his reputation, including all of the psychological insights, presentational angles and performing tips which could only have been gained from years of professional performance. The book has been out of print for a long time but seems that now has been reprinted. Anyway have a look at my last post an you may be able to get a copy.

The phantom has very nice tips on performing this effect, you can find them at The phantom notebook

Resources
Michael Vincent official website can be found here. You may be interested in having a look at his blog here

Steve Forte and the four kings

2007-11-01T13:08:00.000Z

Hi guys, our guest this week is Steve Forte. He is a gaming expert and is considered to be the most skilled sleight-of-hand artist in the world. He has worked in, managed and consulted with casinos worldwide about how to spot cheaters and scam artists

Check out his smooth work on shuffling and dealing below!

Resources
* Steve Forte's Gambling protection series on DVD (use my links below!)
* Casino Game Protection, A Comprehensive Guide
* Poker Protection -- Cheating... and the World of Poker
* Steve Forte' Poker Protection

Helder Guimaraes - FISM 2006 winning close-up act

2007-10-22T21:52:00.000+01:00

See the World's Close-Up champion in action.

http://www.helderguimaraes.com/

Expert at the Card Table DVD Set by Wesley James

2007-10-08T19:12:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

The phantom has posted an 'excellent' review of this DVD set called "the man who raped erdnase". Have a look:

The man who raped Erdanse 1
The man who raped Erdnase 2

We will have to wait for Allan Ackerman set to see if this gets better ;)

The SWE shift (Erdnase)

2007-10-02T22:43:00.000+01:00

A pass in magic, also known as shift, is essentially a quick, almost invisible, cut which brings a selected card to the top of the deck when it has apparently been lost in the center.

Today we will discuss the SWE shiftA as Erdnase said:

"Still, we must confess to some satisfaction in having originated what we believe to be the most rapid, and, for certain purposes, the most perfect shift ever invented"

S. W. Erdnase is the author of The Expert at the Card Table, a book detailing sleight of hand and cheating techniques using playing cards and in continual publication since 1902. This is one of the most influential books in the history of magic and, believe it or not, Erdnase's true identity is stil a mystery.

QUESTIONS

* Who is Erdnase... Is this Erdnase?

* While the move is in the "Legerdemain" section when is more suited to be in the "at the card table"? Jason England and Wesley James consider this move not appropriate for the card table, but is this really true?

* Best way to hold the break? Erdnase (pinky) or Dai Vernon(outjog card when cutting)?

RESOURCES
* Buy Expert at the card table now! Expert at the card table (if UK) Expert at the card table (if US)
* Check out this other video from youtube here
* Chris Kenner's S.W.E. Elavator makes a good use of this shift. He has some thoughts about this pass in his book Out of Control.
* Wesley James 7 DVD set about Erdnase masterwork. Buy it here!
* Buy now the anotated erdnase!
* Steve Freeman performs it in Dai Vernon Revelations vol 12
* Erdnase tribute by the Phantom
* Jeff Wessmiller notes on the SWE shift

"Shade" Opening titles

2007-09-29T09:45:00.000+01:00

Have you heard about Shade?

The movie is set in the world of poker hustlers working the clubs and martini bars of Los Angeles. The tale unfolds as a group of hustlers encounter "The Dean" and pull off a successful sting that results in their pursuit by a vengeful gangster. The cast is great and includes Stuart Townsend, Thandie Newton, Gabriel Byrne, Jamie Foxx, Sylvester Stallone and Melanie Griffith

The video below contains all the gambling moves performed in the opening titles. The highlights are the fan color change and the mcmillan switch, performed by Jason England.

EFFECTS

* Bottom dealing demostration
* Rub a dub change and vanish
* Fan Card Color Change Fan-2-C. This is Paul's version of the classic Zapped, created by Bob Koche (can also be found in Acrobatic Cards by Ed Marlo). The cards are examinable ater the effect.
* On the table switches of cards.The 5 for 5 switch can be found in THE UNREAL WORK DVD by Paul Wilson and Jason England
* MacMillan Change (performed by Jason England)also included in THE UNREAL WORK DVD
* Ed Marlo Snap Change
* Pull Through shuffle
*...

Flush Brush by Doug Conn

2007-09-27T18:55:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

The effect for today is call Flush Brush and is a Variant of Chris Kenner's "Paint By Numbers". Chris mentions Derek Dingle's "roll-over aces" as his inspiration.

This effect is included in Tricks of My Trade-The Magic Of Doug Conn, written by Paul Cummins. Now is sold in a CD-ROM edition. This books is highly recommened for any serious card lover.

"Tricks of my Trade has been critically acclaimed by professionals and hobbyists of all levels. You'll discover a variety of magic, designed for a variety of situations. If the phrase "something for everyone" ever applied... it's to this tome."

RESOURCES
- Check out Doug Conn Website for his books and more videos!

Shoot Ogawa

2007-09-25T08:01:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

For today I have an interesting video from Shoot Ogawa. A magician from Japan that became worldwide famous for his Ninja Rings.

As you can see in the videon linking rings is not his only skill ;)

RESOURCES
- Check out more details and the biography visiing Shoot Ogawa Official Website
- Still want more? Why not have a look at his Ninja Rings routine

Roll-over Aces by Derek Dingle

2007-09-22T12:52:00.000+01:00

<<(…) one of the tricks that started the kicker ending craze, is also one of the most effective(…). Derek Dingle taught me this effect some twenty years ago, not long after he devised it. I have been using it ever since, so I can testify from very extensive experience that few card effects will impress an audience more when skillfully performed>> from Darwin Ortiz Strong Magic

RESOURCES
- Original handling can be found in "The Complete Works of Derek Dingle" and in Michael Ammar' DVD "Classic Renditions #4" (See below for Michael' race against the clock)

- Sal Piacente has a simplified version in his "Expert Card Magic vol II" DVD.

- "Flush Brush" published in "Tricks of My Trade" by Doug Conn contributes with a different handling for Dingle' original.

USEFUL LINKS
- If you are interesting in buying Derek Dingle or Doug Conn book I recommend Aaron's Smiths Magic Depot
- For the DVDs you can check any of our sponsonrs :)
- I have just found an amazing blog The Phantom Notebooks. Nice videos and reviews (a little bit cranky sometimes).

The card magic WebRing is here!

2007-09-22T11:09:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

Just FYI I have created webring for card magic related sites.

Don't hesitate to contact me if you want to join me in this exciting project!

Furnit

Invisible Palm - Jennnings and Twins versions

2007-09-20T23:15:00.002+01:00

Hello fellow magicians and magic lovers!

Todays trick is among the top list of "best card tricks" in the history of magic. I am talking about invisible palm.

Below you can see the original version by Larry Jennings... Watch!

RESOURCES

The original Larry Jennings version can be found in Kaufman’s “Jennings '67” and "The Classic magic of Larry Jennings".

The effect has been revisited by hundreds and hundreds of magicians. Apart from Larry Jennings original it’s worth mentioning:
• Paul Harris' can be found in “The art of astonishment” book three or in the “The Stars of Magic" vol 5 video.
• Bill Malone’s version in his DVD series “On the loose”. The main difference is how he deals with the last ace. A bit angly, but very very good.
• Martin Nash can be found in his video “The Charming cheat, vol 2” and in the the booklet "Kings Incognito". Can be downloaded from www.lybrary.com
• Chris Kenner has a very nice variation in Totally Out of Control.
• David Regal has a variation in Close-up and Personal (it is also performed on his first set of DVDs).
• And many more…

BONUS TRACK – TWINS “INVISIBLE PALM”

Arnaud Chevrier (Twins) it’s a non professional French magician. His approach on “invisible aces” version has been circulating for while on the net. Without any doubt this is one of the best performances, watch out the last ace! Bravo Arnaud!

OTHER INTERESTING LINKS

• Larry Jennings official website: http://www.larryjennings.com/
• Other Arnaud (Twins) videos can be found at http://www.lsp-fr.com/ or www.magicvideodepot.com
• Another version by Michael Vincent can be found here

OTHER RESOURCES (STOLEN FROM AN EXCELLENT POST BY LAWRENCE O, FROM THE MAGIC CAFE)

Here is a first basic list. Naturally like every list it's incomplete.
What reference is missing?

Bilis Bernard: Nouvelles notes de confÃ©rence : an excellent version with the spectators in mind rather than the performerâ€™s ego. Technically very good.

Chretien, Yannick: DVD Download http://www.close-up-magic.com/shop/ ***

Finley, Arthur (USA: fl.1920s-40s) Had invented the Tent Vanish sleight by 1941. Commercial artist in New York City, Finley, an amateur cardman by the mid 1920s, was one of the 5 original members of the New York "Inner Circle" by 1932.

Harris, Paul: Las Vegas Close Up 1978 p. 26 to 41. The P.H. Invisible Palm. Very good but inferior to the improvements by Steve Spilman & Art Of Astonishment Volume 3 book. The P.H. Invisible Palm

Houchin, Wayne: Invisible palm: His technique is classic but his patter is nice: first he explains the suspicion (Juan Tamariz Magic way) that the card goes up the sleeve across the chess and then down the other arm to join the first one (first effect) The replacement of the â€˜palmed cardâ€™ is perfect no side movement; His packet switch is correct on the timing. Then he show that when a card is palmed it always sticks out somewhere unless you can do it invisibly (second effect) by squeezing the card (â€œand it looks like itâ€™s gone, you can be natural with this). The replacement of the â€˜palmed cardâ€™ is perfect no side movement. There are small mistakes in the handling of the double (one adjustment movement before tabling and timing fault in the In Transit which is otherwise well thought out).

Hamman, Brother John: Kern

Jay, Joshua:

Jennings Larry: Expert Card Mysteries 1969 by Alton Sharpe. Ed. Alan Keith. p. 41 to 44. Jenningâ€™s Open Travellers. Presented as a completely new method to effect an ace assembly For the first time, the method requires palming & The Classic Magic of Larry Jennings. 1986 Ed. L & L Publishing p. 144 to 149 Open Travellers is presented as the cleanest method for each and every ace effect. Larryâ€™s original performance can be seen at http://furniturecorner.blogspot.com/2007/09/hello-fellow-magicians-and-magic-lovers.html

Kaufman, Richard. Le Magicien 1994 NÂ° 137 p. 4724 to 4726. Lâ€™empalmage Invisible. This no palm version derives from Bruce Cervonâ€™s method. It was assembled by Gene Maze and Richard Kaufman.

Kenner Chris: Totally Out Of Control, 1992 by Richard Kaufman and Alan Greenberg p. 40 to 45: Travlrs 1. Thanks to a Clear double stik tape, the effect gains directedness in the handling of the extra card.

Luka, John: Reel Magic Quarterly - Episode 3 Off the Shelf John Luka prÃ©sente son nouveau livre, Uncovered, puis prÃ©sente et explique son fantastique effet â€œThe Invisible Palmâ€�

Lyle, Christopher : Youtube no explanation for the last card. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiKTKh5gPbw Same good patter as Wayne Houchin but the last card is beyond understanding.

Marlo, Edward. The New Phoenix 1962 nÂ° 375, dÃ©cembre 1962, page 329. The Open Travelers.

Miesel, William M. The New Phoenix 1961 nÂ° 362, p. 277 et 278. Invincible. Itâ€™s the same effect than the classic four ace trick except that, this time, the aces are no longer covered by three other cards. First version of the invisible palm.

Malone, Bill: On the Loose

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HGXbswQDsU several good points in this one: the handling of the double card on the table and in the hand at the same time; the Tenkai palm add on as the other cards are turned over avoids the packet switch: the last card isnâ€™t as good.

Owen, Anthony: The Dungeon DVD Caravan Travellers â€“ Anthony Owenâ€™s super-clean handling of Larry Jenningâ€™s classic Open Travellers.

Rusli, Kent: Invisible palm: steal of the first card with the gamblerâ€™s cop but without real In Transit action. Like every other routine using the Ascanio spread, the spread is not a fan and this is bad. The laying down of the card is poor compared to other performers. The space management for the switch is fine

Sanvert, Jean-Jacques: Le Magicien 1993 p. 4477 to 4479 Sous les bandelettes de lâ€™homme invisible [Under the invisible manâ€™s bandages]. At the end the four aces change into a royal flush. & Best of Jean Jacques Sanvert - World Champion Magic DVD 2008 by L&L Publishing Vol 2 Invisible Flush Palm offers a startlingly new climax At the end the four aces change into a royal flush.

Spilman, Steve. Expert Card Chicanery 1976 compiled by Alton Sharpe. Ed. Alan Keith. S. S. Pages 57 to 59. Addition to Open Travellers brings two new veryy smart moves to the effect.

Stone, David: Real Secrets of Magic DVD Vol 1 2006 by Jean-Luc Bertrand. Traveler. & Les vrais Secrets du Close Up. Vol. 1. A nice version adding a surprising finale where the Kings become aces. David credits Larry Jennings (Open Travellers), Yannick ChrÃ©tien (Ultimate Traveler) and J. J. Sanvert (Invisible Flush Palm).

Nathan Kranzo - Haunted Card

2007-09-17T22:36:00.000+01:00

Hello again,

Check out what I have found, such a sensational trick!

Resources:

Nathan Kranzo Official Website
This trick is explained in Nathan's DVD Visual Voodoo. Please note this is for advanced magicians only ;)
Buy other Nahan DVDs and books at Magicshop.co.uk

Guy Hollingworth - The reformation + Twisting the aces

2007-09-17T19:27:00.000+01:00

Hi guys,

Today´s dinner comes with a surprise, two tricks in a row from one of the best card magicians in the world: Guy Hollingworth.

Guy Hollingworth is an English magician well known for his extremelly skillful card magic and his elegant performing style.

Have a look at the video! He is really amazing!

Resources:

- Drawing room deceptions: This acclaimed book contains beautiful and well contructed pieces of magic, includes also "The reformation" as shown in the video below.

- Quartet is a booklet that includes and the gaffed card that will allow you to perform "Twisting the aces". A simple version with no gimmicks can be found at Drawing room deceptions or in Guy's DVD The London Collection.

Guy Hollingworth's official website: http://www.guy-hollingworth.com/

Pit Hartling - Finger Flicker (Con un solo dedo)

2007-09-16T12:23:00.002+01:00

Here goes one of my favourite effects, Finger Flicker by Pit Hartling.

The effect looks absolutely impossible. Pit presented it not as a magic trick but as a skill developed after years of practice.

The effect (if you don't understand Spanish):

1) The cards are shuffled and squared onto the table. One spectator names a number between 10 to 20, "seventeen". Just with one finger, Pit manages to flick exactly 17 cards!!

2) Pit challenges himself by trying it again with a higher number. The deck is shuffled again and another number is named, "twenty five". A spectator covers the performer's eyes with her hands. Even being blindfolded in this manner, the performer flicks off again a pile containing 25 cards.

3) For the final demostration a card is selected: the King of Hearts. The card is returned to the pack and the deck is shuffled by an spectator. Pit challenges his memory this time "king of hearts? ahh, is the one under the four of diamonds". Remembering the position of the card the deck is flicked again onto the selected card.

If you want to learn this effect I highly recommend Pit´s book (http://www.card-fictions.com/. You can also downloadthe essay Inducing challenges for free.