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Grab by Mark Calabrese

Created by: Mark Calabrese

Grab is a card sleight created by Mark Calabrese, featured in a tutorial video by SeanDevine as part of a tribute to Caleb Simpson's 'ABCs of Sleight of Hand' concept. The trick is one of 26 sleights demonstrated, each corresponding to a letter of the alphabet. This is a close-up card magic technique, ideal for magicians looking to expand their repertoire with diverse and influential moves. The video serves as a homage to Simpson's original work, offering a quick-fire overview of each sleight without deep instructional detail.

Where to buy

Grab from Ellusionist
EllusionistGrab$7.46
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Key features

  • Part of a tribute to Caleb Simpson's 'ABCs of Sleight of Hand'

  • Quick demonstration without in-depth instruction

  • Ideal for magicians looking to explore diverse card sleights

Pros

  • Showcases a wide range of influential card techniques

  • Great for expanding a magician's repertoire

  • Pays tribute to innovative magic concepts

Cons

  • Lacks detailed step-by-step instruction

  • May not be suitable for beginners without prior knowledge

Effect

The Grab is a card sleight that allows a magician to secretly control or switch a card in a seemingly casual manner. The move is designed to look natural, often disguised as a simple adjustment or handling of the deck. To the audience, it appears as if the magician is just touching or moving the cards, but in reality, they are executing a hidden maneuver.

Full Details

The Grab is attributed to Mark Calabrese, a respected figure in card magic. It is a utility move, meaning it can be used in various routines rather than being a standalone trick. The sleight is known for its deceptive simplicity, making it a useful tool for magicians who want to maintain a natural flow in their performances.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This sleight is best suited for intermediate to advanced card magicians who already have a solid foundation in card handling. It is particularly useful for those who want to refine their control techniques or add subtlety to their routines. Beginners may find it challenging due to the required finger dexterity and timing.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Grab requires precise finger placement and smooth execution to avoid detection. While not the most difficult sleight, it does demand practice to make it look effortless. Magicians familiar with other card controls, such as the Pass or Double Lift, will find it easier to integrate into their repertoire.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine, in his tribute video to Caleb Simpson’s ABCs of Sleight of Hand, includes the Grab as one of the 26 sleights demonstrated. He highlights the diversity of techniques from influential magicians, emphasizing the Grab as a useful addition to a magician’s toolkit. While the video does not go into deep detail, it serves as an introduction to the move and encourages further exploration.

The Grab is a practical sleight for magicians looking to enhance their card magic with deceptive yet natural-looking moves.

What people are saying about Grab

SeanDevine says...

When Caleb Simpson told me about his 'ABCs of Sleight of Hand' idea, I was like, 'Man, that is such a good idea—why didn't I think of this?' [...] He's just an incredible sleight-of-hand artist with cards, and I love him.

Tutorial videos