Card Warp by Roy Walton, Quentin Reynolds, and Mario Lopez

Created by: Roy Walton, Quentin Reynolds, Mario Lopez

Card Warp is a classic close-up card magic trick where a signed playing card appears to visually turn inside out and back again, defying logic and physics. In variations like 'Warped In Space' or 'The Perro Verde', the effect expands to include bending, twisting, color changes, and orientation shifts, creating a multi-phase routine that can end with a souvenir or a surprising reveal. This trick is highly visual and interactive, suitable for close-up or parlor settings, and often requires minimal sleight of hand, making it accessible to beginners while remaining impactful for professionals. Buyers should note that some versions may require purchasing gimmicks and are currently exclusive to magic conventions.

Key features

Visually stunning illusion of a card turning inside out or warping
Suitable for close-up and parlor magic performances
Minimal sleight of hand required in many versions
Can include multi-phase routines with color or orientation changes
Often ends cleanly with a souvenir or surprise reveal
Emphasizes presentation and storytelling over complex moves

Pros

Highly visual and engaging for audiences
Beginner-friendly with practice
Ends cleanly with memorable elements
Can be performed with a signed card for added impact
Teaches important performance skills like timing and focus management

Cons

Some versions require purchasing gimmicks
Currently only available at conventions for certain variants
Relies heavily on performer's presentation skills
Final reveals could confuse spectators if not clearly executed
Requires practice to master timing and smooth execution

Effect

Card Warp shows a playing card performing impossible actions. A signed card visibly turns inside out and back again. The card appears to flip, twist, and warp in ways that defy physics. Some versions include color changes or multiple transformations. The effect creates a strong visual illusion that leaves audiences amazed.

Full details

Card Warp is a classic card trick with several variations. The basic routine involves folding two cards together. One card appears to pass through the other. The signed card turns inside out during this process. Some versions like Warped In Space expand the routine into two distinct illusions. The trick ends cleanly with the spectator keeping the signed card as a souvenir. Performers can present Card Warp in close-up or parlor settings. The method relies on specific folds and rotations rather than complex sleight of hand.

Who should consider the trick

Card Warp suits magicians at various skill levels. Beginners will find some versions accessible with practice. Michael Ammar's teaching makes it suitable for those new to card magic. Professionals use Card Warp as a cornerstone piece in their acts. The trick works well for performers who enjoy interactive magic. It appeals to magicians who prefer visual effects over complex moves. Those looking for a reputation-making trick should consider Card Warp.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Card Warp requires practice but is not overly difficult. Steve Faulkner notes that Warped In Space is easier to perform than the original Card Warp. Michael Ammar presents it as a self-working effect once understood. The key techniques involve specific folds and rotations. Smooth, deliberate actions matter more than speed. Craig Petty mentions that some versions require strong presentation skills. The trick demands good timing and audience management. Most magicians can learn Card Warp with proper instruction and repetition.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner says Warped In Space "expands the Card Warp routine naturally" and "finishes cleanly with a memorable souvenir." He finds it "easier to perform than Card Warp but requires practice."

Michael Ammar teaches Roy Walton's Card Warp as "a classic and highly regarded trick." He emphasizes that "smooth, deliberate actions over speed enhance the magical impact."

Craig Petty performs The Perro Verde, noting it's "a creative twist on the classic card warp trick." He says the routine is "visually engaging but requires strong presentation skills."

Tony Antoniou includes Card Warp in his selections, highlighting his "appreciation for visual, interactive magic."

Multiple reviewers mention that some versions require purchasing gimmicks. Warped In Space is currently only available at magic conventions through Card Shark.

What people are saying about Card Warp

Craig Petty says...

The trick involves a red card visually changing colors and orientations as it passes through a blue card. [...] The routine ends with a surprising green card reveal, playing with the spectator's imagination.

Michael Ammar says...

The effect itself is a modern classic where a signed playing card appears to visibly turn inside out and back again, defying all logic and physics. [...] The tutorial emphasizes the importance of smooth, deliberate actions over speed, as the magic happens in the spectator's mind when the moves are executed cleanly.

Steve Faulkner says...

The effect involves a playing card visually bending and warping in ways that defy logic, creating a stunning two-part routine. [...] He finds it more beginner-friendly than 'Card Warp' but cautions against rushing the performance, as timing is key to keeping the audience engaged.

Tony Antoniou says...

His top picks include Card Warp, highlighting his appreciation for visual, interactive magic.