Sharpie Through Card by Bob Romley and Peter Nardi

Created by: Bob Romley, Peter Nardi

Sharpie Through Card is a visually stunning close-up magic trick where a Sharpie marker appears to penetrate completely through a signed playing card, leaving no hole or damage. Spectators witness the impossible as the pen pushes into the card and emerges on the other side, with the card remaining intact and examinable. This effect relies on a clever optical illusion and a high-quality custom gimmick, making it ideal for impromptu performances in social settings like pubs, street magic, or professional close-up sets. Buyers should note that the trick is angle-sensitive, requiring careful audience management, but it features an instant reset and comes with a downloadable tutorial covering handling and presentation tips.

Where to buy

Monster Magic

Quantum (Sharpie Through Card) by Calen Morelli

£46.99

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Key features

Uses a high-quality custom gimmick for reliable performance
Includes a downloadable tutorial with handling and presentation tips
Features an instant reset for quick reuse
Angle-sensitive, requiring careful crowd management
Discreet and portable, fitting in a deck's cellophane
Works with a signed card for added impact and authenticity
No damage to the card or Sharpie, allowing examination

Pros

Highly visual and baffling effect that fools spectators easily
Quick to perform and reset, ideal for short-form content or live shows
Uses organic props (Sharpie and cards) for natural integration into routines
Durable and practical for frequent professional use
Can be used as a standalone effect or integrated into card routines

Cons

Angle-sensitive, limiting performance angles without careful handling
Method may be predictable for experienced magicians
Relies on misdirection for clean gimmick handling post-effect

Effect

The Sharpie Through Card trick creates a strong visual illusion. A spectator sees a Sharpie marker appear to penetrate through the center of a playing card. The card is often signed by the spectator for added impact. After the penetration, the card is shown to be completely undamaged, with no hole or tear. The Sharpie also remains fully functional. This creates a moment of surprise and impossibility for the audience.

Full details

The Sharpie Through Card trick, often abbreviated as STC, is a modern magic effect. It is based on a clever optical illusion. The method uses a specific gimmick designed by Bob Romley. This gimmick is high quality and fits discreetly inside a deck's cellophane wrapper. The trick allows for an instant reset, meaning you can perform it again quickly. A signed card can be used, and it remains intact for the spectator to keep as a souvenir. The props are not damaged, so the deck and Sharpie can be used for other tricks immediately after.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for magicians who perform close-up or street magic. It works well in social settings like pubs or casual gatherings. It is ideal for performers who want a quick, visual effect for short-form content or social media. Magicians looking for a standalone trick that uses organic, everyday objects will find it practical. It is also good for those who want a powerful opener for a card routine.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Sharpie Through Card trick is not difficult to learn. The included tutorial by Peter Nardi covers handling and performance tips. The method is straightforward and does not require complex sleight of hand. However, the trick is angle sensitive. This means you must manage your audience's viewing angles carefully. Misdirection is also important for a clean performance, especially when handling the gimmick after the effect. With some practice, most magicians can perform it effectively.

What magicians say

Reviewers praise the Sharpie Through Card for its strong visual impact. ChampionMagic calls it a "visual masterpiece" and says spectators are "too baffled by the penetration to scrutinize the method." AlakazamMagicUK notes its practicality, labeling it "A proper WORKER" suitable for professional use. They also mention that the trick is "SO VISUAL" and creates a clean, impossible-looking moment. Lloyd Barnes mentions that Sharpie Through Card is one of his most viral YouTube videos, indicating strong audience reactions. Magic-tv highlights that the trick is "quick, engaging, and perfect for a short-form video format." Multiple reviewers agree that while the method might be spotted by experienced magicians, the effect is strong enough to fool most people.

What people are saying about Sharpie Through Card

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The Sharpie pen appears to penetrate the card in a striking visual moment, yet the card remains completely undamaged. The trick is fast, visually impressive, and ideal for social media due to its instant wow factor.

ChampionMagic says...

The reviewer, clearly impressed, calls it a 'visual masterpiece' and demonstrates its power with a live performance clip where a signed card seemingly absorbs a Sharpie—leaving spectators stunned.

Craig Petty says...

The trick is quick, visually impressive, and uses a signed card for added effect. The performance is interactive, with Craig engaging the audience and encouraging comments.

lloydb says...

Lloyd highlights two of his most successful creations—Acme Hole and Sharpie Through Card (his most viral YouTube video).

magic-tv says...

The trick is quick, engaging, and perfect for a short-form video format. The performance is light-hearted and fun, with Ryland's playful energy adding to the appeal.

Peter Nardi says...

He believes it's a simple yet powerful illusion that anyone can learn quickly. The video serves as a compelling demonstration of the trick's visual appeal and ease of use.