Sleightful logoSleightful

Slip Shuffle by Dai Vernon

Created by: Dai Vernon

The Slip Shuffle is a sophisticated card control technique that allows a magician to invisibly transfer a selected card from a spectator's hand back into the deck, making it appear lost while secretly maintaining control. This technique is inspired by old-time card hustlers and is adapted for legitimate magical performance. It's a close-up card magic trick that involves a combination of subtle techniques including the slip shuffle, side jog, and Vernon Transfer to achieve a deceptive and natural-looking control over the selected card.

Key features

  • Inspired by deceptive techniques used by old-time card hustlers

  • Involves invisibly transferring a selected card back into the deck

  • Relies on subtle techniques like the slip shuffle, side jog, and Vernon Transfer

  • Designed to appear messy and uncontrolled to mask the underlying control

  • Can be incorporated into various card magic routines

Pros

  • Highly effective and relatively easy-to-learn

  • Offers a deceptive and natural way to maintain card control

  • Can be adapted for real-world performance in less-than-ideal environments

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the subtle techniques involved

  • May not be suitable for beginners due to the need for precise card handling

Effect

The Slip Shuffle is a deceptive card control technique that makes a selected card appear lost in the deck while secretly keeping it in a controlled position. To the audience, it looks like the magician is casually shuffling or spreading the cards, with no indication that the chosen card is being retained. The natural, messy handling reinforces the illusion that the card is truly lost.

Full Details

The Slip Shuffle is based on an overhand shuffle where the bottom card is secretly held in place while the rest of the deck is shuffled. This allows the magician to maintain control of the selected card without detection. Key elements include:

  • Side Jog: A slight misalignment of the deck before the shuffle makes the move appear more natural.
  • Vernon Transfer: A deceptive action where the magician appears to spread the cards while secretly keeping the selected card in position.
  • Chaotic Handling: The routine is designed to look uncontrolled, masking the underlying technique.

The method is inspired by old card hustling techniques, adapted for magic by Dai Vernon. It blends seamlessly into standard shuffling actions, making it difficult for spectators to detect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Slip Shuffle is ideal for magicians who:

  • Perform card magic regularly and want a reliable control method.
  • Prefer techniques that look natural and unforced.
  • Enjoy routines where the handling appears messy but is secretly precise.
  • Want a versatile move that can be adapted for different effects.

Difficulty

The Slip Shuffle is considered relatively easy to learn. As reviewer SeanDevine notes, it is "very easy, almost self-working." The mechanics are straightforward, but practice is needed to make the shuffle look natural and unhurried. The Vernon Transfer portion requires more precision but remains accessible to intermediate performers.

What Magicians Say

  • SeanDevine describes it as a "sloppy, Leonard Green-style control," praising its deceptive appearance. He emphasizes that the technique should look "messy and uncontrolled" to enhance the illusion.
  • The move is compared to the style of Danny Ortiz, known for natural, deceptive card handling.
  • Reviewers highlight the importance of avoiding technical jargon when performing for lay audiences, instead using simple language like "drop the cards" instead of "dribble."

The Slip Shuffle is recommended as an underrated but highly effective control, particularly for magicians who value natural-looking techniques.

What people are saying about Slip Shuffle

SeanDevine says...

The Vernon Transfer is an underrated and underused control that offers a deceptive and natural way to maintain card control. [...] The whole feel of it is a natural thing and using natural actions to achieve a secret action.

Tutorial videos