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Prediction Envelope by Rich Relish

Created by: Rich Relish

Prediction Envelope is a mentalism trick that leverages the psychological power of color to create engaging and relatable routines. The performer presents a deck of color swatch cards, cleverly disguised as a tool for graphic designers. Spectators freely choose colors, and through a combination of marked stacks, alphabetical arrangements, and deceptive uniformity in the deck, the magician reveals their selections with uncanny accuracy. This trick is versatile, suitable for close-up, parlor, and even stage performances. Buyers should note that while some routines require memorization of 20 color-related words, crib cards and flashcard techniques are provided to ease the learning process.

Key features

  • Combines marked stacks and deceptive uniformity for powerful mentalism effects

  • Versatile for close-up, parlor, and stage performances

  • Includes crib cards and learning aids for memorization

  • Psychological presentation style enhances audience connection

  • Instant reset for walk-around routines

Pros

  • Highly versatile with multiple routines possible

  • Engaging psychological hook with color themes

  • Includes learning aids for memorization

  • Strong audience reactions due to relatable color associations

Cons

  • Requires some memorization for advanced routines

  • May need additional props like rings for certain presentations

Effect

The Prediction Envelope is a mentalism effect where the performer correctly predicts a spectator's chosen color. The magician presents an envelope with a written prediction inside. A spectator freely selects a color from a deck of color swatches, and the prediction matches their choice exactly. The effect is clean, direct, and leaves no room for suspicion.

Full Details

The Prediction Envelope is part of Rich Relish's EasyTones deck, a utility tool designed for mentalism performances. The deck consists of two halves:

  • Marked Stack – One half contains color swatches arranged alphabetically by their longest color name. Each card is subtly marked for easy identification.
  • Force Bank – The other half appears visually varied but contains identical color names and codes, allowing for deceptive forces.

    • The performer can use either half (or both) to create different effects. The Prediction Envelope routine often combines both halves—one spectator picks from the marked stack (revealed as mind reading), while another picks from the force bank (revealed via the prediction). The method ensures an instant reset, making it ideal for walk-around performances.

    Who Should Consider the Trick

    This trick is best suited for:

    • Mentalists who want a non-card-based effect that feels organic and psychological.
    • Close-up performers working weddings, corporate events, or table-hopping.
    • Magicians looking for a versatile utility tool—the EasyTones deck allows multiple routines beyond just the Prediction Envelope.

    Difficulty

    The Prediction Envelope is moderate in difficulty, primarily due to:

    • Memorization – Learning 20 color names (alphabetically arranged) is required for full functionality. However, crib cards and flashcard apps are provided to assist beginners.
    • Handling – The force bank requires smooth presentation to avoid suspicion.
    • Performance psychology – The routine benefits from strong scripting to enhance believability.

    Experienced performers will find the mechanics straightforward, while newcomers may need practice to deliver the effect convincingly.

    What Magicians Say

    • Rich Relish (creator) emphasizes the psychological power of color, stating: "People relate to colors—they have emotions, memories, and strong feelings attached to them. It works on a deeper level than revealing a playing card."
    • Craig Petty, who contributed to the project, expanded the deck's potential with multiple routines, proving its versatility.
    • Peter Nardi (host of The Deep Dive) praised the effect, calling it "a phenomenal tool for mentalists, not a one-trick pony."

    The Prediction Envelope, combined with the EasyTones deck, offers a fresh approach to mentalism, making it a valuable addition to any performer's repertoire.

    What people are saying about Prediction Envelope

    AlakazamMagicUK says...

    The deck is cleverly disguised as a graphic designer's tool, featuring a marked stack and a second half with unique names and codes, making it a versatile mentalism prop.

    Tutorial videos