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Anything To Matchbox by Alex Vernard

Created by: Alex Vernard

Anything To Matchbox is a versatile close-up magic trick that allows magicians to perform a variety of routines including vanishes, transformations, and predictions using an ordinary-looking matchbox. The trick involves a gimmicked matchbox that can make objects appear, disappear, or change, offering a wide range of magical possibilities. It's particularly noted for its ability to perform a folded card to impossible location, where a signed card visually appears inside the matchbox, which can then be shown empty. The trick is suitable for close-up performances and is praised for its creativity and the deceptive simplicity of its method.

Where to buy

Anything To Matchbox by Axel Vergnaud x Magic Dream from Monster Magic
Monster MagicAnything To Matchbox by Axel Vergnaud x Magic Dream£33.99
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ANYTHING TO MATCHBOX (ATM) by Axel Vergnaud from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicANYTHING TO MATCHBOX (ATM) by Axel Vergnaud£34.90
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Key features

  • Versatile utility gimmick disguised as an ordinary matchbox

  • Allows for a wide range of routines including vanishes, transformations, and predictions

  • Includes a gimmicked matchbox and a regular matchbox for added versatility

  • Customizable matchbox design to suit the performer's character

  • Well-taught with multiple routines and performance tips included

Pros

  • Highly versatile with multiple routines possible

  • Customizable design to fit the performer's style

  • Well-taught with clear instructions and performance tips

  • Strong visual impact with the folded card to impossible location

  • Portable and easy to carry for close-up performances

Cons

  • Lacks a 'killer routine' that stands out above the rest

  • Concerns about the durability of the gimmicked matchbox over time

  • Price may be considered high for what is essentially a simple gimmick

Effect

The Anything To Matchbox trick allows a magician to make small objects vanish, appear, or transform inside an ordinary matchbox. A spectator might see a signed playing card, a borrowed ring, or even a folded bill placed into the matchbox, only for it to disappear or change into something else. The matchbox can be shown empty before and after the effect, making the transformation or vanish seem impossible.

Full Details

The trick includes a gimmicked matchbox and a regular matchbox, allowing for multiple routines. The gimmicked matchbox functions similarly to a Himber wallet, enabling quick switches and transformations. The set also comes with different matchbox sleeve designs, letting performers customize the prop to fit their style.

Routines taught include:

  • A folded card appearing inside the matchbox.
  • A torn and restored card effect.
  • A ring or coin vanish.
  • A bill-to-real-note transformation.
  • A mentalism prediction using double writing.

The method is simple but relies on natural misdirection, making it deceptive in performance.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a versatile utility prop for close-up or walk-around magic. It works well for:

  • Performers who like impromptu-style effects.
  • Mentalists who want a subtle prediction device.
  • Those who enjoy creating their own routines, as the matchbox can be adapted for multiple effects.

Difficulty

The trick is easy to moderate in difficulty. Basic sleight-of-hand skills (like a classic palm) are helpful but not required for all routines. The gimmick does most of the work, but smooth handling and audience management are key to making the effects convincing.

What Magicians Say

  • Craig (Magic-TV) praises its versatility, saying, "It’s more than just a card-to-impossible location—you can do predictions, vanishes, and transformations." However, he notes durability concerns, as the matchbox is made of cardboard.
  • Alex Kirk (Monster Magic Shop) calls it a "jack of all trades" but feels it lacks a standout routine. He suggests developing original presentations to maximize its potential.

Overall, Anything To Matchbox is a practical, multi-purpose tool for magicians who enjoy adaptable, visual magic.

What people are saying about Anything To Matchbox

magic-tv says...

Anything To Matchbox provides versatile routines but may lack durability. [...] The main routine is a folded up card to impossible location so you take a matchbox, show it empty, put it down on the table, have someone pick a card they sign it and it appears inside the matchbox.

monstermagicshop says...

A utility gimmick disguised as an ordinary matchbox, allowing for vanishes, transformations, and predictions. [...] It's a really good jack of all trades it's just not a master of any of them.

Review videos