Card Fold by Tommy Wonder and D'Veran

Effect

The Card Fold trick creates the illusion that a signed playing card magically rises to the top of the deck multiple times, defying logic. The routine builds suspense with moments of apparent failure before climaxing with the card impossibly appearing inside a small box that was in plain sight the entire time. The audience sees the card repeatedly return to the top, vanish, and finally materialize in an unexpected location, often resulting in strong reactions.

Full Details

The trick is based on Tommy Wonder's adaptation of a D'Veran routine from Stars of Magic. It combines sleight of hand, psychological misdirection, and precise timing. Key techniques include:

• Turnover Pass: A deceptive move that makes the card appear to rise to the top while concealing the method.
• Card Fold: A specialized folding technique that reduces the card to a small, concealable size.
• Box Illusion: The folded card is secretly loaded into a hinged box, which remains in view throughout the routine.

The routine relies on audience engagement, with moments of humor and apparent mistakes to enhance the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for intermediate to advanced magicians who enjoy card magic with strong audience interaction. It suits performers who appreciate psychological subtleties and are willing to invest time in mastering the technique. Those who enjoy ambitious card routines will find this a powerful addition to their repertoire.

Difficulty

The trick requires significant practice, particularly the card fold and turnover pass. Tommy Wonder recommended practicing with at least 200 decks of cards to perfect the fold. The psychological timing and misdirection also demand experience in performance. While not for beginners, dedicated magicians can achieve impressive results with consistent rehearsal.

What Magicians Say

Tommy Wonder emphasized the importance of timing and audience control, stating:

"The key to its success lies in understanding how to play with the audience's expectations and perceptions."

He also highlighted the value of the card fold, noting:

"If the fold is smaller, it's more effective... it also seems like it must have taken much more work."

The routine has been praised for its strong finish, with Wonder explaining:

"The magic takes place after rather than before the technical move."

Magicians who perform this trick often report strong audience reactions, including spontaneous applause. The combination of sleight of hand and psychological misdirection makes it a standout piece in card magic.