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Four Card Change by Prachur Adhikari

Created by: Prachur Adhikari

The 'Four Card Change' is a visually striking card magic trick where four identical cards (e.g., the five of clubs) appear to transform one by one into four different cards (e.g., the six of diamonds). This trick utilizes a double-faced card and the Elmsley count to achieve the illusion, making it a perfect addition for intermediate card magicians looking to expand their repertoire with a mix of sleight-of-hand and clever gimmickry.

Key features

  • Requires a double-faced card (e.g., five of clubs/six of diamonds)

  • Setup involves two regular five of clubs, two regular six of diamonds, and the double-faced card arranged in a specific stack

  • Techniques include the Elmsley Count, Pinky Break & Placement, and Biddle Grip

  • Performance tips emphasize practice, misdirection, and theatrical flourishes

  • Suitable for intermediate card magicians

Pros

  • High visual impact

  • Moderate difficulty suitable for intermediate magicians

  • Uses a mix of sleight-of-hand and clever gimmickry

Cons

  • Requires precision in handling to avoid flashing the hidden cards

  • Needs a double-faced card, which might not be readily available to everyone

Effect

The Four Card Change is a visually striking card trick where four identical cards appear to transform into four different cards. The effect can be presented in multiple ways, such as four sevens changing into four kings in the spectator's hand or a sequence of cards transforming one by one. The illusion is clean and direct, making it a strong piece for close-up or parlor magic.

Full Details

The trick relies on a combination of deck setup and sleight of hand. One version uses a pre-arranged deck with four sevens on top and four kings underneath. A pinky break and ambitious card break are used to control the cards while maintaining the illusion that the spectator holds only sevens. Another version uses a double-faced card and the Elmsley count to create the appearance of multiple transformations.

Key techniques include:

  • The Elmsley count to conceal the double-faced card.
  • A pinky break for card control.
  • The Biddle grip for smooth handling.
  • Misdirection and psychological suggestion to enhance the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for intermediate card magicians who are comfortable with false counts and card control. It requires practice to perform smoothly but offers a high-impact visual transformation. Those who enjoy interactive magic, where the spectator holds the cards, will find this particularly engaging.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level is moderate. The Elmsley count and pinky break require precision to avoid flashing hidden cards. Misdirection and timing are also crucial for selling the illusion. Beginners may find the handling challenging, but with practice, the moves become fluid.

What Magicians Say

Prachur Adhikari emphasizes the strong reactions this trick generates, calling it a "high-impact" effect. He highlights the importance of misdirection and psychological suggestion to enhance the illusion.

BestMagic describes the trick as having "visual impact" and recommends it for intermediate performers. They stress the need for practice, especially with the Elmsley count, to ensure smooth execution.

Both reviewers agree that the Four Card Change is a powerful addition to a magician's repertoire, offering a clear and surprising transformation that audiences enjoy.

What people are saying about Four Card Change

BestMagic says...

The creator loves this trick for its visual impact and moderate difficulty, making it suitable for intermediate card magicians. While the handling requires precision, the payoff—a series of impossible transformations—makes it worth mastering.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The effect centers around a seemingly impossible transformation: four sevens held in a spectator's hand magically change into four kings. Adhikari emphasizes the 'K moments' and the potential for strong reactions this trick provides.

Tutorial videos