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H2O by Juan Colas

Created by: Juan Colas

H2O is a modern gimmicked take on the classic Oil and Water plot in close-up card magic. Spectators witness a seemingly impossible separation of red and black cards through multiple phases that build in impossibility. The routine begins with the spectator examining the cards, establishing fairness from the start. The performer then mixes the cards both face down and face up, yet the colors persistently separate. The stunning finale involves the spectator mixing the cards in the performer's hand, after which they appear to unmix themselves without any visible action. This effect transforms a familiar plot into a routine that feels fresh, exceptionally fair, and visually impossible. Buyers should note that while the trick requires gimmicked cards, the purchase includes instructions to create these gimmicks using any standard deck with a basic tool, and a high-quality pre-made gimmick is also available.

Key features

  • Modern take on the classic Oil and Water plot

  • Allows for relaxed, care-free performance without rushing due to fear of exposure

  • Spectators examine cards from the start, enhancing fairness

  • Builds through phases with cards mixing face down and face up while colors separate

  • Finale features spectator mixing cards that unmix themselves in performer's hand

  • Includes multiple handlings and variations taught by Juan Colas

  • Instructions to make gimmicks using any deck you own

  • Comes with a high-quality gimmick-making tool useful for other magic projects

  • Flexible purchasing options: tutorial-only or bundle with gimmick

Pros

  • Revitalizes a familiar classic into something new and impossible

  • Practical and powerful routine for working magicians

  • Clean and easy to perform with minimal handling

  • Gimmick is versatile for use in other magic beyond H2O

  • Builds in impossibility, making the magic convincing

Cons

  • Requires gimmicked cards, which may not appeal to purists

  • Basic gimmick-making tool needed if creating gimmicks yourself

  • Gimmick-dependent method limits impromptu performance

Effect

The H2O trick shows a small group of playing cards. Some cards are red and some are black. The performer mixes the red and black cards together. The cards then separate by color on their own. This happens multiple times in different ways. The spectator can examine the cards at the start. In the end, the spectator mixes the cards in the performer's hand. The cards then unmix themselves without the performer doing anything.

Full details

H2O is a modern version of the classic Oil and Water card plot. It uses a gimmick. The routine has multiple phases. The magic builds from one phase to the next. The performer can handle the cards in a relaxed way. The method removes the need to rush. The purchase includes a video tutorial by Juan Colas. He teaches several handlings and variations. The tutorial also shows how to make the required gimmicks. You can make them from any deck of cards you own. A basic gimmick-making tool is needed. A high-quality version of this tool is included if you buy the bundle. This tool can also be used for other magic projects.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who know the classic Oil and Water plot should consider H2O. It is good for performers who want a routine that feels fair and impossible. It is suitable for working magicians who need practical material. It is also good for people who like to make their own gaff cards. The trick offers a tutorial-only option for these DIY makers.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The method for H2O is described as easy. Juan Colas states it is the cleanest and easiest Oil and Water effect available. The handling allows for a care-free performance. The required moves are not complex. The challenge is in the construction of the gimmick, not the sleight of hand. The tutorial provides clear instructions for both the performance and the gimmick creation.

What magicians say

The promotional reviews are very positive. Ellusionist states the routine creates a relaxed, fair, and impossible feeling. They note it moves away from rushed performances common with gimmicks. They highlight that the spectator can examine the cards from the start. EverythingMagicPro99 calls it a "Recommended Buy." They loved that it solves performance anxiety linked to gimmicks. They say it allows for a "care-free, light touch." Reviewers agree the finale is strong, where cards separate on their own after a spectator mixes them. Juan Colas is confident in the product, summarizing it as "Oil and Water done right."

What people are saying about H2O

ellusionist says...

H2O is a modern take on the classic Oil and Water plot that allows for a relaxed, care-free performance unlike rushed gimmick tricks. The routine builds through phases with cards mixing face down and face up while colors separate, and the finale features spectator mixing cards in performer's hand that unmix themselves.

EverythingMagicPro99 says...

H2O solves a common performance anxiety associated with gimmicks: the fear of exposure leading to rushed handling. With H2O, the method allows for a relaxed, 'care-free, light touch,' enabling the magic to happen slowly and convincingly right under the spectator's nose.

Promotional videos