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Haunted Deck by Jamie Daws

Created by: Jamie Daws

Haunted Deck is a captivating close-up card trick where a spectator's selected card appears to visibly and impossibly penetrate from the center of a borrowed, shuffled deck, creating a strong visual illusion of animation or haunting. This impromptu routine requires no setup or gimmicks, relying solely on standard sleight-of-hand techniques like false shuffles and cuts, making it ideal for spontaneous performances in casual settings. Buyers should be prepared to practice the sequence thoroughly to ensure smooth execution and enhance the deceptive impact.

Key features

  • Completely impromptu and can be performed with any borrowed, shuffled deck

  • Uses false shuffle and cut sequences to maintain control of a key card

  • Incorporates a push-through flourish for visual card penetration illusion

  • Designed for strong visual impact with minimal requirements

  • Part of a free tutorial series for easy learning

Pros

  • No setup or gimmicks needed, making it highly versatile

  • Strong visual and baffling effect that engages spectators

  • Self-working routine with clear performance tips for confidence

Cons

  • Requires practice to master sleight-of-hand moves smoothly

  • May not suit beginners without prior card handling experience

Effect

The Haunted Deck trick shows a selected card visibly penetrating through the center of the deck. A spectator chooses a card and returns it to the middle. The magician then cleanly displays the deck. Suddenly, the chosen card appears to push its way out from the middle, creating a strong visual moment of impossible movement.

Full details

This version of the Haunted Deck is an impromptu routine. It works with any borrowed and shuffled deck. No special cards or setup are required. The method uses a sequence of standard card sleights. These moves create the illusion of a card moving through the deck. The trick is designed for real world conditions where a magician may not have prepared props.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who perform with borrowed decks should consider this trick. It suits performers who need strong visual magic with ordinary cards. It is ideal for walk around or social settings. This trick fits magicians who value practicality and impromptu opportunities.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is moderate. It requires proficiency in fundamental card sleights. The routine uses a false shuffle and a false cut. It also includes a push through flourish. These moves need smooth execution to maintain deception. Practice is necessary to perform the sequence naturally and without hesitation. Jamie Daws states that practicing until the actions are second nature is crucial.

What magicians say

Jamie Daws designed the trick for impromptu performance. He says it allows for a strong magical moment with minimal requirements. He loved the impromptu nature of the trick. The trick is part of his Saturday Sorcery series. Matthew Wright also mentions the Haunted Deck as an influential trick in his career, citing Eugene Burger's version. He highlights how such tricks blend storytelling and emotional depth into a performance.

What people are saying about Haunted Deck

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Matthew Wright highlights the profound influence of Eugene Burger's 'Haunted Deck,' revealing how comedy and emotion blend into his performances.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Jamie Daws loved the impromptu nature of the trick, as it allows for a strong magical moment with minimal requirements.

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