Classic Deal and Mix Procedure by Ray Gleason

Effect

The Classic Deal and Mix Procedure creates the illusion of a completely fair and random shuffle. A spectator handles the deck, deals cards into a pile, and mixes them in any way they choose. Despite this apparent randomness, the magician accurately predicts the card the spectator will cut to. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves no room for suspicion, as the spectator has full control over the shuffling process.

Full Details

The Classic Deal and Mix Procedure is a method used to control a card while making the deck appear thoroughly randomized. It is often combined with forces like the Crosscut Force, where the spectator cuts the deck, unknowingly selecting a predetermined card. The procedure involves:

• The spectator dealing cards face down into a pile.
• Encouraging them to mix cards from different parts of the deck (top, middle, bottom) to enhance the illusion of randomness.
• Having them square up the deck before performing the final cut.

When paired with a marked deck (such as the Speed Reader Deck), the magician can identify the force card discreetly while maintaining the appearance of a fair shuffle. The key is in the presentation—confidence, casual handling, and misdirection ensure the method remains undetected.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This method is ideal for magicians who:

• Perform close-up or mentalism routines where a convincing shuffle is necessary.
• Want a reliable force that appears completely fair to the spectator.
• Are comfortable using marked decks or subtlety in their performances.
• Enjoy interactive routines where the spectator handles the cards extensively.

Difficulty

The Classic Deal and Mix Procedure is not mechanically difficult, but it requires strong presentation skills. The most challenging aspects are:

• Maintaining a natural, relaxed demeanor while the spectator shuffles.
• Discreetly reading a marked deck without drawing suspicion.
• Executing the Crosscut Force smoothly, ensuring the spectator cuts at the correct angle.

Magicians with experience in card forces and marked decks will find this easier to integrate into their routines. Beginners may need practice to develop the necessary confidence and timing.

What Magicians Say

Sean Devine describes the Crosscut Force (used alongside the Classic Deal and Mix Procedure) as "the best card force of all time." He emphasizes the importance of confidence and casual handling, stating:

"The key isn't just the marked deck, but the presentation. You have to appear casual and confident, avoiding any actions that might draw attention to the force."

He also highlights the effectiveness of the convincer, where the magician shows multiple cards the spectator could have cut to, reinforcing the illusion of free choice.

The combination of the Classic Deal and Mix Procedure with the Crosscut Force creates a highly deceptive effect, especially when performed with a marked deck. As Devine notes, "They'll be so convinced that it was a true and genuine thing that they won't question the discrepancy of the force at all."

This method is a powerful tool for magicians looking to enhance their card forces with a clean, spectator-handled approach.