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Picking Pockets by Iain Moran

Created by: Iain Moran

Picking Pockets is a standout close-up magic trick featured in the *Zen Magic with Iain Moran* collection. It involves an **Interchange**-plot routine where four signed aces and four jacks impossibly switch places across different pockets. This trick is designed for real-world performance, offering maximum impact and reliability. It's part of a collection that includes eight card tricks and two coin routines, all refined for professional use.

Key features

  • Part of the *Zen Magic with Iain Moran* collection

  • Involves an impossible interchange of signed cards across pockets

  • Designed for real-world performance with maximum impact

  • Teaches essential sleights like Convincing Control and Gary Kurtz Slip-Cut Force

  • Includes 10 highly polished close-up magic routines

Pros

  • Highly polished and professional-grade material

  • Designed for reliability and maximum audience impact

  • Includes teaching of essential sleights

  • Blends strong methodology with audience-tested effects

Cons

  • May require advanced sleight of hand skills

  • Part of a larger collection, which may not be needed if only interested in this trick

Effect

The trick Picking Pockets is a high-impact close-up routine where four signed aces and four jacks impossibly switch places across different pockets. The audience sees the magician place the aces and jacks into separate pockets, only to find they have swapped locations without any visible handling. The effect is clean, visual, and leaves spectators baffled.

Full Details

Picking Pockets is part of the Zen Magic collection by Iain Moran. It follows an Interchange plot, where two sets of cards switch places in an impossible manner. The routine involves signed cards, adding an extra layer of impossibility. The method is designed for real-world performance, ensuring reliability under close scrutiny. The trick does not require gimmicks, making it practical for impromptu settings.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Close-up magicians who perform for small groups.
  • Professionals who need strong, repeatable material.
  • Card workers looking for a visual and interactive routine.
  • Performers who enjoy signed-card effects with a clean finish.

Difficulty

The trick requires intermediate-level card handling skills. It involves essential sleights such as the Convincing Control and Gary Kurtz Slip-Cut Force, which are taught in the Zen Magic collection. The routine is structured to minimize risk, making it reliable in performance. Practice is needed to ensure smooth execution, but the method is designed for practicality.

What Magicians Say

BigBlindMedia describes Picking Pockets as a standout routine in the Zen Magic collection. They highlight its "belt & braces" handling, meaning it prioritizes reliability. The trick is praised for its strong methodology and audience-tested impact. The inclusion of signed cards adds an extra layer of impossibility, making it a powerful piece for professional performers.

The Zen Magic collection as a whole is recommended for magicians seeking bulletproof, professional-grade material, and Picking Pockets is one of its strongest offerings.

What people are saying about Picking Pockets

BigBlindMedia says...

Picking Pockets: A standout **Interchange**-plot routine where four signed aces and four jacks impossibly switch places across different pockets.

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