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Slip and Slide Control by SeanDevine

Created by: SeanDevine

The Slip and Slide Control is a versatile card magic technique that allows a magician to control a spectator's selected card to any desired position in the deck, from the top to any specific location, using a deceptive spread and subtle manipulation. This close-up card trick is perfect for magicians looking to add a powerful and deceptive control to their repertoire. The method involves a natural-looking spread and a thumb maneuver to secretly position the card, with variations allowing for precise placement using a key card method.

Key features

  • Versatile card control technique

  • Can position a card anywhere in the deck

  • Uses a deceptive spread and subtle manipulation

  • Key card method for precise placement

  • No gimmicks or special decks required

  • Suitable for impromptu performances

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and natural-looking

  • Versatile with multiple variations

  • No special equipment needed

  • Easy to learn with practice

  • Effective for close-up magic

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the subtlety

  • May be challenging for beginners

Effect

The Slip and Slide Control allows a magician to secretly move a selected card to any desired position in the deck. The audience sees the card returned to the middle of the deck, seemingly lost. After a casual spread or shuffle, the magician reveals the card has been controlled to a specific location, such as the top, fourth from the top, or even deeper in the deck.

Full Details

The Slip and Slide Control involves a deceptive spread and a subtle thumb maneuver to secretly slide the selected card into position. The magician spreads the deck messily, masking the movement of the card. A key card can be used to ensure precise placement—for example, placing a key card 12th from the bottom means the selected card will end up 12th from the top.

The control works in multiple phases:

  • The spectator selects a card and returns it to the deck.
  • The magician performs a spread, secretly sliding the card under the thumb.
  • The card is positioned using either a single drop (for top control) or multiple drops (for deeper placement).

    • Who Should Consider the Trick

    This control is ideal for magicians who want a versatile method for positioning a card without complex sleights. It works well for:

    • Performers who like impromptu magic (no gimmicks needed).
    • Those who want a deceptive alternative to classic controls like the pass or double undercut.
    • Magicians who enjoy routining effects where card placement is crucial (e.g., prediction tricks, card revelations).

    Difficulty

    The Slip and Slide Control is moderately easy to learn but requires practice to make the spread look natural. Key points:

    • The wrist action must be smooth to hide the move.
    • The spread should appear casual, not overly neat.
    • Counting cards for deeper placements (e.g., fourth or twelfth from top) requires consistency.

    Sean Devine notes, "The move is the same, just with a little adjustment... nobody's ever going to notice because everything is in motion."

    What Magicians Say

    • Versatility: The control can place a card anywhere in the deck, making it useful for multiple routines.
    • Deceptive: The messy spread and wrist action disguise the sleight effectively.
    • Key Card Method: Reviewers highlight the key card technique as a reliable way to ensure accuracy.

    Sean Devine emphasizes its practicality: "You can control a card anywhere you want using my Slip and Slide Control."

    The Slip and Slide Control is a strong addition to any card magician’s toolkit, offering flexibility and deception in a straightforward method.

    What people are saying about Slip and Slide Control

    SeanDevine says...

    The 'key card method' is introduced for consistent and accurate placement. A natural and deceptive spread is crucial for masking the manipulation.

    Tutorial videos