Card-Through-Table by Ed Marlo

Effect

The Card-Through-Table trick makes a selected card visually penetrate the table. A spectator picks a card, which is placed back into the deck. The magician then causes the card to vanish from the deck and reappear beneath the table, as if it passed straight through the solid surface.

Full Details

The trick relies on Ed Marlo’s Convincing Control, a bottom control technique that secretly moves the selected card to the bottom of the deck. The magician uses streamlined handling to make the control appear natural, avoiding suspicious movements. Key elements include:

• Streamlined Alignment: The selected card and the card above it are positioned close but not perfectly aligned, reducing unnatural adjustments.
• The "Secret Call": A subtle finger movement conceals the switch, making the audience believe the selected card is still visible.
• The "Click": A slight sound or tactile feedback reinforces the illusion of the card being in place.
• Back Movement: The card is moved diagonally backward, facilitating a clean cop or palm.

Once the card is controlled to the bottom, the magician can execute a cop or bottom palm, setting up the card for the final penetration effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits intermediate to advanced card magicians familiar with controls, palms, and misdirection. It works well for close-up performances where spectators can inspect the deck and table. Those who enjoy versatile card magic with multiple applications (such as card-to-pocket or card-to-wallet) will find this technique valuable.

Difficulty

The trick requires practice to master the Convincing Control and the subsequent cop or palm. The subtleties—such as timing, natural handling, and misdirection—demand precision. Beginners may struggle initially, but dedicated performers can integrate it smoothly into their routines.

What Magicians Say

Sean Devine, who refined Marlo’s original technique, emphasizes the importance of natural handling: "You want to eliminate that sort of careful procedure and have a more natural handling... The key is to make the control appear effortless." He also highlights the versatility of the move, stating, "This leads to a bunch of possibilities—card to pocket, card through the table—the possibilities are endless."

The refined handling reduces unnecessary movements, making the trick more deceptive. Devine notes that the "secret call" and diagonal back movement are crucial for hiding the switch while maintaining a clean performance.