Card To Pocket by Ed Marlo

Effect

A spectator selects a card from a standard deck. The magician shows the card is lost in the deck. With a simple gesture, the magician proves their hand is empty. They then reach into their pocket and produce the spectator's chosen card. The card has impossibly traveled from the deck to the magician's pocket.

Full details

Card To Pocket is a classic magic plot where a selected card vanishes from the deck and appears in the magician's pocket. Many versions exist. Some methods use sleight of hand controls and palms. Other methods use gimmicks or specific loading techniques. The trick can be performed impromptu with any deck. It can also be structured as a multi-phase routine. Some performances include having the spectator sign their card for added impossibility. The effect is direct and visual. It often ends with a clean reveal that surprises audiences.

Who should consider the trick

Card To Pocket suits magicians who perform walk around or street magic. It works well for social media content because it is fast and visual. Lloyd states his version is "designed for social media use" and provides a "clean visual impact." It is also good for performers who like interactive magic. Craig Petty's performance includes "audience interaction" which "enhances the experience." The trick is practical for magicians who want a strong effect with minimal props. AMillionCardTricks notes the routine is "impromptu, requiring no gimmicks or setup." This makes it ideal for spontaneous situations.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty of Card To Pocket depends on the method chosen. Sleight of hand versions require practice. Lloyd explains that his method uses a "Premier Control" and a "one-handed top palm." He says a "pinky break is crucial" and that "tossing the deck" is a key technique. These moves need coordination and rehearsal. Other methods may be simpler. The video summary for AMillionCardTricks says the routine is "accessible for magicians of varying skill levels." Body loading methods, as discussed by ellusionist, require confidence and timing. They emphasize that "confidence is key" and that performers must "seize opportunities." Overall, beginners can find easier handlings, while advanced performers can explore more complex sleights.

What magicians say

ReidFerry demonstrated Card To Pocket in a live session and noted that while "some moves might challenge beginners, the tricks shine for their practicality and wow factor." Lloyd emphasizes the deceptive quality of his handling, stating it is designed to "fool even experienced magicians" using "pure sleight of hand." He attributes part of his technique to Ed Marlo. MurphysMagicSupplies highlights that Marlo's work includes "comprehensive studies on Card-to-Pocket handlings," showing its importance in card magic history. Mike Sullivan, in the AlakazamMagicUK video, favors performing E.T. Paiva's "Card to Pocket" routine, praising its "misdirection and the way it consistently impresses audiences." Craig Petty's performance summary calls the trick "impromptu, requires no setup, and delivers strong visual impact." These reviews show that Card To Pocket is respected for its direct effect and versatility in performance.