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A Cross by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

A Cross is a Cards Across routine performed with a shuffled deck, requiring no gimmicks or setup. The spectator's thought-of card magically jumps under test conditions, with the only move covered by misdirection. This trick is perfect for close-up magic, offering a clean and impossible reveal that baffles audiences.

Key features

  • No gimmicks or setup required

  • Uses a shuffled deck for maximum fairness

  • Spectator's thought-of card jumps under test conditions

  • Only one move, covered by misdirection

  • Ideal for close-up magic performances

Pros

  • Highly practical for real-world performance

  • Clean and impossible reveal

  • Engages the audience with direct interaction

  • Easy to reset for multiple performances

Cons

  • Requires mastery of misdirection for the single move

  • May not be suitable for very large audiences due to its close-up nature

Effect

The trick A Cross is a Cards Across routine where a spectator's thought-of card visually jumps from one part of a shuffled deck to another under seemingly impossible conditions. The deck is completely ordinary, with no gimmicks or setup, making the effect appear fair and direct.

Full Details

A Cross is designed for real-world performance, using a borrowed and shuffled deck. The spectator freely selects a card, which then visually moves from one packet to another. The method relies on one subtle move, covered by natural misdirection, ensuring the trick remains deceptive even under close scrutiny.

Craig Petty emphasizes that the routine is structured to maximize audience interaction. The spectator handles the deck multiple times, reinforcing the fairness of the effect. The climax is direct and visual, making it ideal for close-up or walkaround settings.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is best suited for magicians who:

  • Perform close-up or walkaround magic.
  • Prefer impromptu tricks with no setup.
  • Want a strong, interactive card routine that plays well with spectators.
  • Appreciate methods that rely on misdirection rather than complex sleight of hand.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level of A Cross is moderate. While it does not require advanced sleight of hand, it does rely on precise timing and misdirection. The key move is well-covered, but performers must be comfortable with audience management to ensure the effect remains deceptive.

What Magicians Say

Craig Petty describes A Cross as his go-to Cards Across routine, praising its practicality and strong audience reactions. He highlights that the trick works under test conditions, with the spectator handling the deck freely.

The routine is part of his book Absolute Madness, which has been well-received for its creative and worker-friendly material. Magicians appreciate that the trick is impromptu and gimmick-free, making it a reliable choice for real-world performances.

Craig’s performance tip for A Cross is to let the spectator handle the cards as much as possible, reinforcing the fairness of the effect. This approach enhances the impossibility of the card’s movement.

If you enjoy interactive card magic with a strong visual payoff, A Cross is a solid addition to your repertoire.

What people are saying about A Cross

magic-tv says...

Craig’s go-to Cards Across routine, using a shuffled deck with no gimmicks or setup. The spectator’s thought-of card jumps under test conditions, with only one move covered by misdirection.

Tutorial videos