Blank Stupidity by Craig Petty

Effect

Blank Stupidity is a visually engaging card trick that uses only four blank cards. The magician appears to print the backs and faces of the cards, creating the illusion of four Jacks. The trick ends with a surprising reveal that the entire effect was an illusion, as the cards remain blank throughout. This creates a strong visual impact and leaves the audience questioning how it was done.

Full details

The trick relies on optical illusions and clever handling to create the appearance of printed cards. It starts with the magician rubbing the blank cards to "print" the backs, followed by the faces, specifically four Jacks. The routine is simple to set up, requiring only four blank cards. The final reveal that the cards were blank all along adds a fun and unexpected twist to the performance.

Who should consider the trick

Blank Stupidity is ideal for magicians who enjoy close-up magic and want a quick, visually striking trick. It works well for both casual performances and more formal settings. The trick is particularly effective for engaging kids, as its visual nature and surprise ending capture their attention. It’s also a great choice for performers looking for a minimalistic trick that requires little preparation.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Blank Stupidity is relatively easy to perform, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The trick involves basic card handling and relies more on the optical illusion than complex sleight of hand. However, performers should practice the timing and presentation to ensure the illusion is convincing, especially in close-up settings where spectators may scrutinize the cards more closely.

What magicians say

Craig Petty, the creator of Blank Stupidity, describes it as a simple yet effective trick that uses only four blank cards. He highlights its strong visual effect and minimal setup as key advantages. In his live performances, Craig emphasizes the importance of audience engagement and improvisation, which enhances the trick’s impact. Other magicians have praised Blank Stupidity for its fun reveal and suitability as an opener, particularly for kids. However, some note that the illusion might not fool close-up spectators who are familiar with the method. Overall, it’s a well-regarded trick for its simplicity and visual appeal.