Cut to Card by Paul Carnazzo and Mental Voyage

Effect

The Cut to Card trick is part of the Self Starter set by Paul Carnazzo. To the audience, it appears as if the spectator is guiding the magic by reading instructions from a laminated cheat sheet. The magician cuts the deck, and the spectator's chosen card is revealed at the exact position they stopped. There is also a bonus moment where the identity of another card is named, adding an extra layer of surprise.

Full details

The Cut to Card trick is one of three routines included in the Self Starter set. The set consists of a laminated instruction card and a 24-minute video tutorial. The card is designed to look like a simple cheat sheet, but the magician must perform sleights to make the trick work. The routine involves a classic pass and palming. A subtle gimmick using a standard playing card is also part of the method, though the exact details are not disclosed.

The trick is angle-friendly and uses a normal deck, making it practical for real-world performances. The spectator reads the instructions aloud, creating the illusion that they are in control while the magician executes the necessary moves.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is best for magicians who already have experience with intermediate card sleights, such as the classic pass and palming. It is ideal for those who want a portable, everyday carry (EDC) routine that engages the spectator in an interactive way. If you enjoy tricks where the audience feels involved but still leaves them baffled, Cut to Card is a strong option.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Cut to Card trick is not self-working, despite the spectator-facing instructions suggesting otherwise. The magician must be comfortable with:

• A classic pass
• Palming
• Subtle gimmick handling

David from Magic Orthodoxy advises learning the routine without the instruction card first to ensure smooth execution. The trick requires practice to perform convincingly, especially since the magician must follow the instructions in a way that aligns with the sleights being done.

What magicians say

David from Magic Orthodoxy highlights that Cut to Card is part of a well-structured routine with a clear beginning, middle, and end. He says, "The card is for the spectator, not the magician. You still have to know how the trick works." He also notes that while the presentation seems simple, the method involves intermediate-level skill.

He recommends the Self Starter set for magicians who want a portable and engaging card routine but cautions that it is not for beginners. "You can't just follow the card and the trick happens. You have to know what you're doing."

Overall, Cut to Card is praised as a clever and practical addition to a magician's repertoire, especially for those who appreciate interactive, spectator-focused magic.