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4 a Routine by Paul Carnazzo and Mental Voyage

Created by: Paul Carnazzo, Mental Voyage

Self Starter by Paul Carnazzo is an innovative EDC (Everyday Carry) magic product that allows magicians to perform three card tricks using a single laminated card. The spectator reads the instructions aloud, creating the illusion they are performing the magic, while the magician executes the necessary sleights. The set includes a 24-minute video tutorial and requires intermediate-level skills such as a classic pass and palming. The tricks are designed to form a mini-routine with a beginning, middle, and end, making it a versatile addition to any magician's repertoire.

Key features

  • Portable and easy to carry, fitting in a wallet or deck of cards

  • Includes three card tricks: Deal Two Card, Cut to Card, and 4 a Routine

  • 24-minute video tutorial provided

  • Requires intermediate-level sleight of hand skills

  • Spectator involvement enhances the illusion

  • No angle limitations, uses a standard deck of cards

Pros

  • Highly portable and convenient for EDC

  • Engages the spectator in a unique way

  • Versatile, allowing for a mini-routine

  • No angle limitations, making it performable in various settings

Cons

  • Not truly self-working; requires intermediate sleight of hand skills

  • Magician must understand the underlying mechanics beyond the card's instructions

Effect

The "4 a Routine" is a card trick that appears as a variation of the classic Bank Robbers routine. The magician places four cards into different parts of the deck. With a wave and a snap, the four aces suddenly appear at the top of the deck. The trick creates a strong visual moment where the cards seem to defy logic, making it a compelling performance piece.

Full Details

The "4 a Routine" is part of the "Self Starter" set by Paul Carnazzo from Mental Voyage. The set includes a laminated card with instructions for three tricks, including this one. The spectator reads the instructions aloud, making it seem like they are guiding the trick while the magician secretly controls the outcome. The routine requires intermediate-level sleight of hand, including a classic pass and palming. A subtle gimmick involving a standard playing card is also used, though the exact method is not disclosed.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is best suited for magicians who already have experience with card sleights like the classic pass and palming. It is ideal for performers who want a portable, engaging routine that can be done with minimal setup. Since the spectator interacts with the instructions, it works well for close-up or impromptu settings.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The "4 a Routine" is not self-working and requires intermediate skill. The magician must be comfortable with palming and the classic pass. David from Magic Orthodoxy advises learning the routine without the instruction card first to ensure smooth execution. The angles are not restrictive, as it uses a standard deck.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy highlights that while the trick appears simple, it requires practice. He says, "You can't just follow the card and the trick happens... you have to know how the trick works." He praises the routine for being a fun, portable option but cautions that performers must be comfortable with intermediate sleights. He also recommends checking out other EDC products from Mental Voyage for similar effects.

The "4 a Routine" is a strong addition to a magician’s repertoire, offering a visually striking effect with spectator interaction. However, it demands practice to perform convincingly.

What people are saying about 4 a Routine

magicorthodoxy says...

The reason why it's called self starter is because it's made to look like some little cheat sheet magicians easy easy to do trick [...] you still have to do a lot right you still have to be in control even though it looks like the spectator's in control you're in control.

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