Gasp by Erik Tait

Created by: Erik Tait

Gasp by Erik Tait is a visually stunning and deceptive close-up card trick where a freely selected card seemingly magnetizes to the performer’s hand using nothing but their breath. The effect plays on the classic 'magnetized card' premise but with a fresh, organic twist that leaves audiences baffled. After the card is lost in the deck, the spectator takes a small packet and spreads it face-up. The magician shows empty hands, places one palm down on the cards, takes a deep breath—and when they lift their hand, all but one card cling to it. The remaining card is the spectator’s selection. The moment the magician exhales, the cards drop instantly, reinforcing the illusion of breath-controlled magnetism. The trick is highly visual, interactive, and adaptable to various performance settings.

Where to buy

Monster Magic

Gasp by Erik Tait

£24.99

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Key features

Self-contained gimmick that hides seamlessly in the deck
Includes two routines: a close-up version and a parlor-sized performance
Strong audience interaction with a fair selection process
Easy to reset and adaptable to various performance settings
Delivers jaw-dropping reactions with an unexpected method

Pros

Visually striking and engaging
Easy to follow and perform
Highly deceptive and baffling to audiences
Versatile for both close-up and stage performances
No need for strings, sticky substances, or external devices

Cons

Requires practice to perfect the timing and presentation
The gimmick, while clever, is a single-use item per performance

Effect

The trick Gasp by Erik Tait creates the illusion of a freely selected card magnetizing to the performer's hand. The magician places their hand over a spread of cards, takes a deep breath, and lifts their hand—all the cards except the spectator's selection cling to the palm. When the magician exhales, the cards drop instantly, reinforcing the idea that breath controls the magnetism. The effect is visual, interactive, and leaves audiences baffled.

Full details

Gasp uses a single gaffed card that blends seamlessly into a standard deck. The gimmick is angle-proof and can be inspected once ditched. The trick includes two routines: a close-up version for intimate settings and a parlor-sized performance for larger audiences. The spectator shuffles the deck and removes a packet, making the selection process feel fair. The method avoids sticky substances, wrist attachments, or external devices, relying instead on a cleverly disguised gimmick.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who want a visually deceptive and interactive card effect. It works well for close-up performers, stage magicians, and those who enjoy organic presentations. If you like self-working gimmicks with strong audience reactions, Gasp is a solid choice.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires practice to perfect the timing and presentation. Activating the gimmick in front of spectators needs rehearsal, but the method is not overly complex. The reset is instant, making it practical for repeated performances.

What magicians say

Magic Orthodoxy calls it a "fresh take on the classic static electricity or magnetic hands illusion," praising its practicality and ingenuity.
Monster Magic Shop describes it as a "modern take on the magnetized cards plot," highlighting its versatility and fun presentation options.
Penguin Magic notes that Gasp delivers "jaw-dropping reactions" due to its unexpected method.
Magic TV states it is "visually striking and engaging" but emphasizes the need for practice to perfect the execution.

The consensus is that Gasp is a strong, worker-friendly trick with broad appeal.

What people are saying about Gasp

magicorthodoxy says...

David loved **Gasp** for its creative spin on a classic effect, praising its practicality and ingenuity.

magic-tv says...

'Gasp' is highly praised for its versatility and ease of use.

monstermagicshop says...

Kirk loves this modern take on the classic **magnetized cards plot**, where cards seemingly stick to the performer’s hand.

penguinmagicshop says...

Erik highlights that **Gasp** consistently delivers **jaw-dropping reactions** because the method is so unexpected.

penguinmagictricks5930 says...

Erik Tait’s **Gasp** is a visually stunning and deceptive routine where a freely selected card seemingly magnetizes to the performer’s hand—using nothing but their breath.