Mantis Playing Cards by Sean Devine and Butterfly Playing Cards

Effect

The Mantis Playing Cards are a custom-designed deck created by magician Sean Devine in collaboration with Butterfly Playing Cards. The deck features a striking design inspired by the praying mantis, with intricate artwork that makes it visually appealing for both performances and cardistry. The deck is marked, allowing magicians to perform a variety of effects with built-in subtlety.

Full Details

The Mantis deck is Butterfly Playing Cards' first clear marking system deck, meaning the markings are designed to be easily readable by the performer while remaining undetectable to spectators. The design incorporates a praying mantis motif, blending aesthetics with functionality. The deck is not just for magic—it’s also suitable for cardistry and general card play.

Sean Devine developed the deck after years of working with Butterfly Playing Cards as an affiliate. The idea came from his love for the praying mantis, and he collaborated with a graphic designer to bring the concept to life. The result is a deck that stands out visually while maintaining practical utility for magicians.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Mantis Playing Cards are ideal for:

• Magicians who use marked decks in their performances.
• Cardists looking for a visually unique deck.
• Collectors who appreciate custom-designed playing cards.
• Performers who want a deck that combines aesthetics with functionality.

Since the deck is marked, it’s particularly useful for magicians who enjoy subtlety in their card work, allowing for effects like key card locations and other deceptive techniques.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Mantis deck is designed to be user-friendly, with markings that are easy to read for the performer. If you’re already familiar with marked decks, adapting to this one should be straightforward. For those new to marked cards, there may be a slight learning curve in recognizing and utilizing the markings effectively. However, the system is clear and intuitive, making it accessible even for intermediate magicians.

What Magicians Say

Sean Devine himself emphasizes the importance of creativity and personal expression in magic, and the Mantis deck reflects that philosophy. He mentions, "If you want to do something, then just do it. There's nobody telling you that you can't do it—you just got to believe in yourself." This mindset drove the creation of the deck, making it a passion project as much as a practical tool.

While no direct reviews from other magicians were provided in the transcripts, the deck’s collaboration with Butterfly Playing Cards—a respected name in custom decks—suggests a high standard of quality. The clear marking system is a notable feature, making it a strong choice for performers who rely on subtlety in their card magic.

For magicians who appreciate both artistry and functionality in their decks, the Mantis Playing Cards offer a unique and practical option.