Erdnase Color Change by Jay Sankey

Created by: Jay Sankey

The Erdnase Color Change is a visually stunning close-up card trick that transforms a blank playing card into the spectator's chosen card. The magician begins by having a card freely selected and controlled to the top of the deck. Using a combination of sleight of hand techniques, including a double lift and the Erdnase color change, the magician makes the blank card visually print the chosen card on both sides. This effect is perfect for close-up performances, as it creates a strong moment of magic that leaves spectators in awe. The trick requires intermediate sleight of hand skills, making it ideal for magicians looking to expand their repertoire with a powerful and visually impactful effect.

Key features

  • Uses blank playing cards for a clean and mysterious presentation

  • Combines multiple sleight of hand techniques for a seamless effect

  • Creates a strong visual transformation that is perfect for close-up magic

  • Requires intermediate sleight of hand skills, making it suitable for experienced magicians

  • Can be performed with a borrowed deck, adding to the mystery

Pros

  • Highly visual and impactful effect

  • Uses common props (blank playing cards) that are easy to obtain

  • Can be performed in close-up or stand-up settings

  • Clear and detailed teaching by Jay Sankey

  • Strong audience reaction and engagement

Cons

  • Requires intermediate sleight of hand skills, which may be challenging for beginners

  • Some techniques, like the buckle and flick, may take extra practice to master

  • Not suitable for large stage performances due to the close-up nature of the effect

Effect

The Erdnase Color Change is a visually stunning magic trick where a blank playing card appears to transform into a fully printed card right before the audience's eyes. The magician shows a blank card, shakes or rubs it, and suddenly the face and back of the card display the spectator's chosen card. The transformation is seamless and happens in real-time, creating a moment of pure astonishment. This trick is particularly effective because it combines the mystery of a blank card with the visual impact of a sudden, impossible change.

Full details

The Erdnase Color Change involves a series of sleight-of-hand techniques that allow the magician to secretly switch a blank card with a printed one. The trick begins with the magician showing a blank card, which can be examined by the audience. The spectator is asked to think of a card, and through a combination of card controls and subtle moves, the magician ensures that the chosen card is in the right position. The transformation is then executed using a shake or rub motion, making it appear as though the blank card has magically printed itself with the chosen card. The effect can be repeated on both sides of the card, adding to the impossibility of the trick.

Who should consider the trick

The Erdnase Color Change is ideal for magicians who enjoy close-up magic and want to add a visually impactful trick to their repertoire. It’s particularly suited for those who perform in settings where the audience can closely observe the details of the card, such as in bars, at parties, or during one-on-one performances. This trick is also a great choice for magicians who want to explore the use of blank cards in their routines, as it leverages the inherent mystery of a blank card to create a powerful effect.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Erdnase Color Change is considered an intermediate to advanced trick, primarily due to the sleight-of-hand techniques involved. Magicians will need to be comfortable with card controls, such as the double undercut, and have a solid grasp of moves like the double lift. The trick also requires precise timing and smooth execution to ensure the transformation looks natural and magical. While the basic mechanics can be learned relatively quickly, mastering the subtleties of the performance will take practice. Beginners may find some of the moves challenging, but with dedication, they can achieve a convincing and impressive result.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey, a well-known magician and creator, describes the Erdnase Color Change as "real magical" and "obsessively good." He emphasizes the visual appeal of the trick, noting that it works well in both close-up and stand-up settings. Sankey also highlights the importance of practice, particularly for the more advanced moves like the buckle and flick technique, which he describes as "next level." He suggests that while the trick can be performed in front of small groups, it’s especially effective in a bar setting where everyone is looking down at the magician’s hands. Overall, Sankey praises the Erdnase Color Change for its ability to create a moment of pure astonishment and its versatility in different performance contexts.

What people are saying about Erdnase Color Change

SankeyMagic says...

The Erdnase Color Change is a visually stunning effect that transforms a blank card into the spectator's chosen card, creating a strong moment of magic that leaves spectators in awe.

Tutorial videos