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Color Changing Card Trick by Lloyd Barnes

Created by: Lloyd Barnes

The Color Changing Card Trick is a mesmerizing close-up magic effect where a deck of cards visually and slowly changes color from blue to red (or vice versa) right in front of the spectator's eyes without any cover. This trick utilizes a custom 3D-printed gimmick with thermochromic ink and clear playing cards to achieve a seamless and angle-free color transformation. It's perfect for magicians looking to add a visually stunning and interactive element to their performances.

Key features

  • Utilizes a custom 3D-printed gimmick with thermochromic ink for a visually striking effect

  • Clear playing cards with a printed Bicycle Rider back design allow for seamless transitions

  • Angle-free performance, making it practical for real-world conditions

  • The speed of the color change can be controlled by the performer

  • Includes a 3D file for the gimmick, available for free to Patreon members

  • Printed paper strips and gimmicks are available for purchase on the creator's website

Pros

  • Highly visual and interactive effect

  • Angle-free, making it versatile for various performance conditions

  • Customizable speed of the color change

  • Comes with resources for DIY enthusiasts (3D files, printed strips)

Cons

  • Requires initial setup with the 3D-printed gimmick and printed paper strips

  • May need practice to perform smoothly

  • Limited availability of pre-made gimmicks and strips

Effect

The Color Changing Card Trick creates the illusion of a deck of cards slowly transforming from one color to another in full view of the audience. The change happens gradually, without any cover or suspicious movements, making it appear as if the cards are shifting color on their own. The effect is visually striking and can be performed at any speed, allowing the magician to control the pacing for maximum impact.

Full Details

Lloyd Barnes spent 20 years refining this effect, experimenting with various methods before settling on a 3D-printed gimmick combined with thermochromic ink. The gimmick holds a printed paper strip with a gradient that, when manipulated, creates the illusion of a color change. Clear playing cards with a printed Bicycle Rider back design enhance the effect, ensuring a seamless transition.

The method allows for angle-free performance, meaning the trick can be shown from multiple perspectives without revealing the secret. The gimmick is reusable, and additional printed strips can be customized for different color transitions.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who want a visually impressive, angle-proof color change that can be performed in close-up or on camera. It suits performers who enjoy experimenting with gimmicks and appreciate well-engineered solutions. Since the method involves a physical gimmick, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer purely sleight-of-hand techniques.

Difficulty

The trick requires some setup, including assembling the gimmick and preparing the printed strips. The handling is straightforward once the gimmick is in place, making it accessible to intermediate magicians. No advanced sleight of hand is needed, but practice is required to ensure smooth execution.

What Magicians Say

Lloyd Barnes describes his 20-year journey to perfect this effect, stating, "I've literally tried and created every method you can think of... from thermochromic inks to lenticular cards." He emphasizes the practicality of his current method, noting that it overcomes the limitations of previous techniques like glare and angle sensitivity.

The 3D-printed gimmick is a key innovation, allowing performers to control the speed of the color change effortlessly. Barnes mentions that while a deck switch is involved, the method includes features that make it practical for real-world performances.

This trick represents a culmination of years of experimentation, offering a visually stunning and reliable way to perform a slow-motion color change.

What people are saying about Color Changing Card Trick

Lloyd Barnes says...

I've spent the past two decades of my life chasing down these sort of Impossible Dream effects... in the pursuit of creating the ultimate slow motion color change. [...] This is Barnes's current preferred method, which he considers the most practical and visually compelling.

Tutorial videos