Scarlet Utility Vanish by Lloyd Barnes

Effect

The Scarlet Utility Vanish is a visually striking card trick where a freely named card vanishes cleanly between two red Aces, only to reappear moments later. The real surprise comes when the two Aces transform into the remaining three cards of the same value as the named card. The entire routine is impromptu, requiring no gimmicks or setup, and can be performed with any borrowed, shuffled deck.

Full Details

The trick begins with a spectator naming any card. The magician removes that card along with the two red Aces from the deck. The named card is placed between the Aces, and with a simple shake, it vanishes completely. The Aces can be examined, proving the card is truly gone. Then, with another wave, the card reappears between the Aces. Finally, the magician twists the packet, revealing that the Aces have transformed into the other three cards matching the named card (e.g., if the named card was the Five of Diamonds, the Aces become the remaining Fives).

The method relies on clever card control, a deceptive vanish technique, and a well-timed transformation. The vanish is particularly clean, with no palming or suspicious moves. The final reveal is designed to be unexpected, making the trick memorable for audiences.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

• Prefer impromptu magic with no gimmicks.
• Enjoy sandwich-style card tricks with a strong visual element.
• Want a routine that works with any borrowed deck.
• Appreciate a surprise ending that elevates the effect beyond a standard vanish.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Scarlet Utility Vanish has both an advanced and a beginner-friendly version.

• Advanced Version: Requires culling multiple cards to the top of the deck and executing precise moves like the Scarlet Utility Vanish and a four-for-four switch. This version is best for intermediate to advanced card handlers.
• Simplified Version: Eliminates the need for culling by pre-setting the necessary cards on top. This makes the trick more accessible to beginners while still maintaining a strong effect.

Lloyd Barnes, the creator, provides detailed teaching for both versions, ensuring magicians of different skill levels can perform the trick effectively.

What Magicians Say

Lloyd Barnes describes the trick as "super visual" and "genuinely fully impromptu," emphasizing its strong kicker ending that "nobody sees coming." He highlights the vanish as particularly deceptive, with no palming required, making it very clean for audiences.

The routine is praised for its flexibility, allowing performers to adjust the difficulty based on their skill level. Barnes also offers performance tips, such as checking for a full deck before starting and pacing the vanish slowly for maximum impact.

Magicians who enjoy impromptu, visual card magic with a memorable climax will find the Scarlet Utility Vanish a valuable addition to their repertoire.