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Double Pushover by SeanDevine

Created by: SeanDevine

Double Pushover is a close-up card magic trick that allows a magician to perform an impromptu Card Across routine without the need for gimmicks or special decks. The trick involves a spectator selecting a card, which is then controlled to a specific position in the deck. Through the use of the double pushover technique, the magician creates the illusion that the selected card has magically traveled to a different location in the deck, culminating in a surprising and impossible reveal. This trick is suitable for performers of all levels and can be done anytime, anywhere with any deck of cards.

Key features

  • No gimmicks or special decks required

  • Uses the double pushover technique for misdirection

  • Suitable for impromptu performances

  • Can be performed with basic card handling skills

  • Neck-tying the deck is recommended for added protection

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Highly fooling and entertaining

  • Relies on natural movements and misdirection

  • Creates a strong magical moment with the final reveal

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the double pushover technique

  • May need additional practice to integrate patter smoothly

Effect

The Double Pushover creates the illusion that a spectator's selected card mysteriously travels from one part of the deck to another. The magician counts out a small packet of cards, seemingly proving the spectator's card is not among them. Yet, when recounted, an extra card appears—the spectator's chosen card—resulting in a surprising and impossible moment.

Full Details

The trick relies on a double pushover, a subtle move where two cards are pushed off as one during a count. This misdirection keeps the spectator's card hidden while maintaining the appearance of a fair count. No gimmicks or special decks are needed, making it fully impromptu.

Key steps include:

  • Controlling the spectator's card to a specific position (often third from the top).
  • Counting out cards while secretly executing the double pushover to conceal the selection.
  • Using patter and natural handling to reinforce the illusion.
  • Revealing the extra card in the final count for a strong magical moment.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine suits magicians who:

  • Prefer impromptu magic with a borrowed deck.
  • Want a strong, self-working effect with minimal sleight of hand.
  • Enjoy psychological misdirection over complex moves.
  • Perform in casual settings where quick, impactful tricks are valuable.

Difficulty

The Double Pushover is easy to learn but benefits from smooth execution. The double pushover move is simple but requires practice to perform confidently. As SeanDevine notes, "Nobody's ever going to catch it if done fast and naturally." The trick also relies on patter and timing, making it more about presentation than technical difficulty.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine highlights the trick's strengths:

  • "This is totally impromptu... you can use any deck any time anywhere."
  • "The double pushover is very well hidden, very well disguised."
  • "A true freakout moment" when the extra card appears.

He emphasizes that the move is easy to execute with practice and recommends neck-tying the deck for added concealment. The routine’s simplicity and strong impact make it a valuable addition to a magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Double Pushover

SeanDevine says...

The double pushover is the key to the illusion. [...] Patter and misdirection are crucial for a convincing performance.

Tutorial videos