Clipping by Andrew Frost

Clipping: A Detailed Analysis for Magicians

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the “Clipping” magic trick, designed to help you determine if it’s a worthwhile addition to your repertoire.

Effect:

The “Clipping” trick creates the illusion that a spectator’s chosen card vanishes from a spread of cards, only to reappear in a completely different location – often the top of the deck. The core of the effect relies on a subtle, deceptive hand movement (the “clip”) that secretly moves the chosen card to a predetermined position. The presentation is clean and relies on misdirection, making it appear as though the card has simply vanished and reappeared through magical means. It’s a classic, elegant effect that’s particularly effective in close-up settings.

Full Details

This trick, as presented by Andrew Frost in his “Card Magic Mastery” course, utilizes a variation of the Crosscut force. However, Frost’s version is designed to disguise the force, making it appear as a simple clipping motion. The method involves a precise, almost imperceptible hand movement – the “clip” – that lifts the chosen card and places it on top of the deck. The spectator is led to believe they are simply touching the card, while the magician subtly repositions it.

Key elements of the technique include:

• The Clip: The core of the trick. It’s a quick, fluid movement that lifts the chosen card and places it on top of the deck. The speed and smoothness of this clip are crucial for deception.
• Misdirection: The magician uses verbal cues and eye contact to draw the spectator’s attention away from the hand movement.
• Spread Preparation: The initial spread is carefully arranged to facilitate the clip and conceal the movement.
• Instant Reset: The trick can be reset quickly and easily, allowing for multiple performances without revealing the method.
• Inspectability: While the method is not immediately obvious, the deck is a standard deck of cards, allowing for a reasonable level of inspection.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for magicians with an intermediate level of card handling skills. While the method itself is relatively simple, executing it smoothly and convincingly requires practice and a good understanding of hand movements. It’s particularly well-suited for:

• Close-up Magicians: The effect is most effective in a close-up setting where the spectator can clearly see the cards.
• Performers who enjoy elegant, deceptive routines: The “Clipping” trick is a beautiful and subtle effect that can add a touch of sophistication to a performance.
• Magicians looking to expand their repertoire of forces: This trick offers a fresh take on the classic force method.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level is generally considered to be intermediate. Here’s a breakdown:

• Initial Learning Curve (30-60 minutes): Mastering the clip itself takes time and practice. It requires precise hand movements and a good sense of timing. Sebastian Toaca notes in his review that “this is not a beginner’s course, but rather an intermediate-level masterclass.”
• Routine Development (1-2 hours): Integrating the clip into a complete routine requires careful planning and misdirection.
• Performance Polish (Ongoing): Consistent performance and refinement of the hand movements are essential for maintaining the illusion.
• Inspectability: While the method isn’t immediately obvious, a sharp spectator might notice subtle inconsistencies.

What Magicians Say

• Sebastian Toaca: Sebastian Toaca, in his review, highlights the quality of the material and the impressive nature of the Crosscut force variation. He states, “The Crosscut force variation, in particular, receives high praise.” He also notes a slight concern about the price point, suggesting $50 would have been more appropriate.
• Reviewer (Implied): The reviewer emphasizes the importance of instant resets and the generally inspectable nature of the deck, stating, “The routines require instant resets and are generally inspectable with a normal deck.”

Do not attempt to purchase this trick.