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Custom Card Routine by David Jonathan and Kevin Aust

Created by: David Jonathan, Kevin Aust

The Custom Card Routine is a modern, tech-enhanced close-up magic trick that leverages QR codes to create a mind-blowing prediction effect. A spectator freely names any playing card (e.g., the Seven of Spades), and a QR code, cleverly disguised on a custom-printed card, is scanned to reveal the exact card they chose. This trick seamlessly blends traditional card magic with digital interactivity, making it perfect for contemporary audiences. The routine is part of the Deqode system, which allows real-time manipulation of QR codes and barcodes, ensuring versatility and adaptability in performances. Buyers should note that this requires a smartphone and the Deqode app for execution.

Key features

  • Works with any QR code or barcode, offering endless customization.

  • Compatible with both iOS and Android devices.

  • Includes custom-designed props for seamless integration.

  • Quick setup and easy to learn, suitable for magicians of all levels.

  • Versatile for mentalism, comedy, or serious magic performances.

Pros

  • Highly interactive and engaging for modern audiences.

  • No force or pre-show work required—the spectator's choice is genuinely free.

  • Can be adapted to predict other items (e.g., celebrities, movies) beyond cards.

  • Respects magical secrecy with a method that's hard to reverse-engineer.

Cons

  • Requires a smartphone and the Deqode app, limiting performances to tech-enabled settings.

  • May not appeal to purists who prefer traditional, non-digital magic.

  • Initial setup might take some time to familiarize with the app and props.

Effect

The Custom Card Routine is a magic trick that uses QR codes to create a surprising and impossible effect. A spectator names any playing card, such as the Seven of Spades. The magician shows a card with a QR code on it. When scanned, the QR code leads directly to an image or confirmation of the exact card the spectator just named. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves the audience amazed.

Full Details

The Custom Card Routine is part of the Deqode system by David Jonathan and Kevin Aust. It allows magicians to manipulate QR codes in real time, making them scan to any chosen destination. In this routine, a playing card is shown with a QR code subtly integrated into its design. The spectator freely names any card, and when the QR code is scanned, it reveals their exact selection.

The system works on both iOS and Android devices, making it widely accessible. It includes custom-designed props and is designed for quick setup and easy performance. The method remains hidden, ensuring the effect stays strong.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is ideal for magicians who want a modern, tech-based effect that plays big. It works well for close-up, stage, or virtual performances. Since it relies on QR codes, it fits well in settings where audiences use smartphones. Magicians who enjoy prediction effects or interactive routines will find this particularly engaging.

Difficulty Level

The Custom Card Routine is designed to be easy to learn and perform. The setup is straightforward, and the method requires no advanced sleight of hand. The real challenge lies in presentation—making the effect feel organic and impossible. The system handles the technical aspects, allowing the performer to focus on engaging the audience.

What Magicians Say

MurphysMagicSupplies highlights the versatility of the Deqode system, calling it "the perfect everyday carry" with "tons of routines that you're going to love performing." They emphasize how clean the effect is, noting that the spectator can "literally think of anything" and the QR code will still lead to their exact choice.

David Jonathan demonstrates the routine in the video, showing how a freely named card (the Seven of Spades) appears when the QR code is scanned. The reaction from the audience—"That's sick, how?"—proves the strong impact of the effect.

The creators stress that Deqode is not just for serious mentalism but also works for comedy and interactive performances. The Custom Card Routine is just one of many possibilities, making it a flexible addition to any magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Custom Card Routine

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Deqode allows you to 'hack' ANY QR code or barcode in real time, opening up a vast range of possibilities for magical effects, from seemingly impossible predictions to humorous gags.

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