Scratch by Kaan Akdogan and Gerard Kearney

Created by: Kaan Akdogan, Gerard Kearney

Scratch is a visually stunning close-up card trick that combines magic with a lottery theme. A spectator selects a card, which is lost in the deck. The magician then reveals a scratch-off lottery card, places it on the deck, and instantly transforms it into the chosen card. This transformation is made possible by a custom magnetic gimmick, ensuring smooth handling and allowing the card to be tossed in the air for added flair. The trick is easy to perform, requiring minimal sleight of hand, and is perfect for adding a fun, interactive element to card magic routines. However, it relies on a gimmick, making it less suitable for impromptu performances.

Key features

  • Uses a custom magnetic gimmick for seamless execution

  • Visual and quick card transformation effect

  • Easy to perform with minimal sleight of hand

  • Great for adding a fun lottery theme to card magic

  • Not ideal for impromptu performances due to reliance on a gimmick

Pros

  • Visually striking and fast to perform

  • Minimal sleight of hand required

  • Well-crafted gimmick enhances the illusion

  • Adds a fun, interactive lottery theme to card magic

Cons

  • Relies on a gimmick, not ideal for impromptu performances

  • Success depends on the quality of the gimmick

  • Size and storage of the gimmick can be challenging

Effect

The 'Scratch' trick creates a visually striking moment where a scratch-off lottery card transforms into the spectator's chosen card. The magician starts by having a card selected and lost in the deck. They then reveal a lottery card, place it on the deck, and instantly change it into the chosen card. The transformation is quick and seamless, often enhanced by tossing the card in the air for added flair.

Full details

The 'Scratch' trick uses a custom magnetic gimmick to achieve its effect. This gimmick ensures smooth handling and allows for a clean transformation. The trick is designed to be easy to perform, requiring minimal sleight of hand. It incorporates a lottery theme, adding a fun and relatable element to the performance. However, the trick relies on the gimmick, making it less suitable for impromptu situations. The size and storage of the gimmick can also be a consideration for performers.

Who should consider the trick

The 'Scratch' trick is ideal for magicians who want a visually impactful card revelation with minimal effort. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy incorporating themes like lotteries into their routines. Performers who value strong visual effects and quick, easy-to-learn tricks will find this appealing. However, those who prefer impromptu or gimmick-free magic may want to look elsewhere.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The 'Scratch' trick is designed to be easy to perform. It requires minimal sleight of hand, making it accessible to magicians of all skill levels. The custom magnetic gimmick simplifies the execution, allowing for a smooth and reliable transformation. Beginners can quickly learn and perform the trick, while experienced magicians can focus on presentation and audience interaction.

What magicians say

AlakazamMagicUK highlights the trick’s visual impact and ease of use, stating, "The effect is visually striking, fast to perform, and requires minimal sleight of hand." They also note the well-crafted gimmick but mention its limitations for impromptu performances. Magic-tv praises 'Scratch' as one of the best tricks of the year, giving it a perfect score of 110/100. They describe it as a strong prediction effect but point out the challenges of storing the gimmick. Overall, reviewers agree that 'Scratch' delivers a powerful and engaging performance with minimal effort.

What people are saying about Scratch

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The custom magnetic gimmick ensures seamless execution, even allowing the card to be tossed in the air for added flair.

magic-tv says...

Scratch offers a visual card revelation but has storage challenges. [...] Scratch is one of the best tricks of the year, with a perfect 110/100.

Review videos

Promotional videos

  • Thumbnail for SCRATCH Trailer

    SCRATCH Trailer

    AlakazamMagicUK mentioned this magic trick in this video.