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Semi-Vanishing Card Trick by lloydb

Created by: lloydb

The Semi-Vanishing Card Trick is a visually striking close-up magic trick where a nine of spades appears to vanish from a phone screen through an optical illusion created by video editing and a custom-made gimmick. The trick involves a specially prepared nine of spades with the pips cut out, precise timing, and phone placement to create the illusion. A Jin switch is used to secretly replace the gimmicked card with a regular one, allowing for examination. The trick is enhanced by wearing black attire to conceal the gimmick and using a video file that is available for Patreon and YouTube members.

Key features

  • Relies on a custom-made gimmick: a nine of spades with cut-out pips

  • Requires precise timing and phone placement for the illusion

  • Uses a Jin switch to replace the gimmicked card with a regular one

  • Black attire recommended to conceal the gimmick

  • Video file available for Patreon and YouTube members

Pros

  • Visually impressive and unique

  • Detailed tutorial provided

  • Includes performance tips and alternative presentation options

  • Modern twist on classic card magic principles

Cons

  • Requires video editing skills or access to the provided video file

  • Precise timing and practice needed for the illusion to work effectively

  • Custom gimmick creation may be challenging for some

Effect

The Semi-Vanishing Card Trick creates the illusion of a nine of spades visually disappearing from a phone screen. The magician shows the card, places it against the phone, and the pips (the suit markings) vanish in real time. The effect is immediate and striking, making it appear as though the card is being erased by the phone. After the vanish, the magician can hand out the card for examination, reinforcing the idea that no gimmicks were used.

Full Details

The trick relies on a custom gimmick—a nine of spades with the pips carefully cut out—and a pre-edited video file. The video displays black squares that align with the card's pips, creating the illusion of them vanishing. Timing is critical, as the magician must sync the card placement with the video's black squares appearing.

A Jin switch is used to secretly replace the gimmicked card with a regular one after the vanish, allowing the audience to inspect it. The magician must wear black clothing or use a black surface to conceal the gimmick. The phone must be locked in full-screen mode to prevent accidental exposure of the video.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who enjoy digital and visual illusions. It works well for performers comfortable with sleight of hand, particularly the Jin switch. Since it requires precise timing and setup, it may not be suitable for beginners unfamiliar with card gimmicks or video-based magic.

Difficulty

The trick is moderately difficult due to the timing and handling required. The Jin switch must be executed smoothly to avoid detection. Cutting the pips from the card cleanly is also a delicate task. However, with practice, the mechanics become manageable.

What Magicians Say

Lloyd describes the trick as "just an optical illusion" but emphasizes its visual impact. He notes that "the best part is though if you were here right now you could take this card and you could examine it until your heart was content," highlighting the clean finish. He also stresses the importance of timing, stating, "you have to get your timing correct—this is on you to practice."

The trick blends classic card magic with modern digital elements, making it a unique addition to a magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Semi-Vanishing Card Trick

lloydb says...

The trick's foundation lies in a short, edited video clip. [...] The key is to time the appearance of the black square with the placement of a prepared card against the phone screen.

Tutorial videos