Sleightful logoSleightful

Key Card by Carl Fes

Created by: Carl Fes

Key Card is a classic close-up card magic trick where a spectator freely shuffles a deck, and the magician uses a secretly identified 'key' card to locate a chosen card or perform predictions. In variations like 'Spellow', the magician writes a prediction (e.g., 'This must be it') on a separate card, and after the spectator shuffles and cuts the deck, the prediction and chosen card are revealed together. This self-working method relies on principles such as the key card position, false cuts, and strategic placement, requiring no advanced sleight of hand, making it suitable for beginners and experienced magicians in impromptu, walk-around, or social settings. Buyers should note that mastering a false cut and effective presentation are crucial for a convincing performance.

Key features

  • Self-working method with no sleight of hand required

  • Uses a key card principle for card location and prediction

  • Suitable for beginners and adaptable for experienced performers

  • Involves spectator shuffling and cutting for a fair appearance

  • Can be performed impromptu with minimal setup

  • Emphasizes presentation and misdirection for impact

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform with practice

  • Highly engaging for spectators due to direct involvement

  • Versatile for various performance environments

  • Clean and deceptive when executed properly

Cons

  • Requires mastery of a false cut to maintain illusion

  • Not recommended for repeat performances with the same audience

  • Relies on precise card handling to avoid exposure

Effect

The Key Card trick creates a moment where a spectator's freely chosen card appears at a randomly named position in the deck. The spectator shuffles the deck and selects a card. After the card is lost in the deck, the spectator names any number. The magician counts down to that number, and the chosen card is found exactly there. This happens without the magician touching the deck during the final count.

Full details

The Key Card trick uses a simple principle to locate a chosen card. A specific card, known as the key card, is used as a reference point. The magician secretly notes the position of this card. When a spectator selects a card and returns it to the deck, the magician uses the key card to control its location. No complex sleight of hand is needed. The trick requires a one-time setup that takes seconds. After setup, the trick can be performed anytime with a normal deck. The method ensures the spectator's choices feel completely free.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians at any skill level. Beginners will find it easy to learn and perform. Experienced magicians can use it as a quick, reliable routine. It works well in social settings and walk-around magic. If you need a strong effect with minimal preparation, this trick is a good choice. It is also ideal for performers who want to focus on presentation rather than difficult moves.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Key Card trick is not difficult to perform. It requires no advanced sleight of hand. The main skill is remembering the key card's position. CardMechanic suggests memorizing the card in chunks of three or four cards instead of counting individually. A false cut can enhance the effect but is not mandatory. SeanDevine notes that the key card method allows for cleaner control without holding breaks. With basic practice, most magicians can perform this trick confidently.

What magicians say

CardMechanic says, "It's a self-working card trick suitable for beginners and experienced magicians." He emphasizes that "a false cut is essential for performing the trick effectively" and recommends memorizing the key card in chunks.

SeanDevine describes using a key card for "cleaner control," allowing visual tracking of the card's position. He states these controls are "practical and adaptable for real-world performance."

AMillionCardTricks calls it "a powerful variation on a classic card plot" that is "suitable for walk-around or social settings." He advises having the spectator name the number after the card is lost to enhance fairness.

All reviewers agree the Key Card trick is straightforward, impactful, and valuable for any magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Key Card

AMillionCardTricks says...

The method is a clever application of a key card principle, requiring no sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The only setup needed is a simple, one-time arrangement of a single card, which can be done in seconds and remains intact for multiple performances.

CardMechanic says...

Spellow is a great self-working trick, ranking it as mid-to-high beginner level due to the need to understand and execute a false cut. He praises Carl Fes's creativity in adapting the key card principle and appreciates the clean transitions and overall presentation of the effect.

SeanDevine says...

Sean provides a 'bonus' technique for a cleaner control, utilizing a key card marked with a pencil dot on the corners and edges. This allows for visual tracking of the card's position without needing to hold a break.

Tutorial videos