10 of Clubs by SeanDevine

Effect

The 10 of Clubs trick presents a compelling prediction effect. A spectator shuffles the deck and freely selects a card face down without looking. The magician then spreads the cards face down, allowing the spectator to call "stop" at any point. The magician reveals that if the spectator's chosen card is the 10 of Clubs, the card they stopped on must be the 10 of Spades. The effect appears fair and impossible, as the spectator controls both the selection and the stopping point.

Full Details

The trick relies on a combination of techniques to create a convincing illusion of free choice:

• Marked Deck (Optional): The original demonstration uses the Garrett Thomas GT Speed Reader marked deck to identify the spectator's chosen card. However, the trick can be adapted to work without a marked deck, though the method changes slightly.
• Self-Working Control: The magician subtly positions the mate (matching color and value) of the spectator's card second from the bottom of the deck through casual handling.
• Running Crosscut Force: Inspired by Ed Marlo’s Drop Slight, this force allows the magician to control the stopping point naturally. The magician spreads cards, secures a break, and uses hand cover to drop the desired card into place.

Performance tips include maintaining a relaxed demeanor, justifying actions with patter, and spreading cards in groups to smoothly locate key cards.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who:

• Enjoy prediction-based effects.
• Prefer routines that can be performed impromptu (with or without a marked deck).
• Are comfortable with card controls and forces.
• Appreciate methods that blend technique with psychological misdirection.

Difficulty

The 10 of Clubs trick is moderately difficult. It requires:

• Familiarity with card forces (like the Running Crosscut Force).
• Smooth handling when spreading and controlling cards.
• Confidence in justifying actions through natural patter.

Beginners may need practice to execute the force cleanly, but intermediate performers should find the mechanics manageable with rehearsal.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine, who developed the routine, emphasizes the importance of studying magic literature for inspiration. He states:

"The best advice I could give somebody who wants to create magic is to read every magic book you can get your hands on... even if you don’t necessarily like the trick, you might find a principle you can apply elsewhere."

He also highlights the value of adapting existing techniques:

"I wanted to show you how you can use things in a different way... with this Running Crosscut Force inspired by Marlo’s Drop Slight."

The trick is praised for its fairness and flexibility, allowing performers to tailor it to their preferred method (marked deck or alternative controls).