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Clip Break by Nate Leipzig

Created by: Nate Leipzig

The Clip Break is a sophisticated card control technique used in close-up magic, particularly in ambitious card routines. It involves using a clip break setup to secretly move a selected card from the middle to the top of the deck under the guise of a simple card turnover. The move is enhanced by misdirection, such as asking the spectator a question, making it highly deceptive. This technique is ideal for magicians looking to add subtle, well-covered controls to their repertoire, especially when paired with visual reveals like a snap change.

Key features

  • Uses a clip break setup for smooth execution

  • Relies on misdirection for deception

  • Ideal for ambitious card routines

  • Pairs well with visual reveals like snap changes

  • Requires precise handling and timing

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and subtle

  • Satisfying to practice and perform

  • Works well in ambitious card routines

  • Built-in misdirection enhances the illusion

Cons

  • Requires precise handling and timing

  • The card must be known to the magician and spectator

Effect

The Clip Break is a deceptive card control that allows a magician to secretly move a selected card from the middle of the deck to the top. To the audience, it appears as if the magician simply turns the selected card face down or performs a casual dribble. The move is often used in ambitious card routines, where a card repeatedly rises to the top despite being placed in the middle.

Full Details

The Clip Break involves clipping the upper right corner of the top card between the pinky and ring finger. This creates a hidden gap in the deck. When the magician pretends to turn the selected card face down, they instead insert it into the gap, positioning it second from the top. The top card acts as a screen, hiding the movement.

Key elements of the Clip Break include:

  • A larger-than-usual clip break for smoother execution.
  • Natural hand motions that mimic turning a card face down.
  • Built-in misdirection, such as asking the spectator a question.
  • Applications in ambitious card routines, often paired with visual reveals like a snap change.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Clip Break is ideal for magicians who:

  • Enjoy subtle, well-covered card controls.
  • Perform ambitious card routines.
  • Prefer moves with built-in misdirection.
  • Are comfortable with intermediate sleight-of-hand techniques.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Clip Break requires precise handling and timing. The magician must maintain a natural motion while executing the control. PigCake notes that while the move is not overly complex, it benefits from practice to ensure smoothness. The larger clip break makes insertion easier, but the misdirection aspect must also be well-timed.

What Magicians Say

PigCake describes the Clip Break as "extraordinarily satisfying to practice" and recommends it for its deceptive qualities. He highlights its usefulness in ambitious card routines, where it pairs well with visual reveals. The move relies on natural misdirection, similar to a top change, making it a strong addition to a magician’s toolkit.

The Clip Break is a subtle and effective control for magicians looking to refine their card handling. Its deceptive nature and practical applications make it a valuable technique for intermediate and advanced performers.

What people are saying about Clip Break

PigCake says...

The Leipzig Pass is extraordinarily satisfying to practice and recommends it for magicians who enjoy subtle, well-covered controls. While it requires precise handling and timing, the move offers a deceptive alternative to more common passes.

Tutorial videos