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Snappy

Snappy is a two-card transposition magic trick performed with a z-fold wallet, similar to a routine popularized by David Blaine in his *Street Magic* special. The trick involves the magician showing two cards to the spectator, and then, through a series of moves, the cards seemingly switch places. This is a close-up magic trick that requires a z-fold wallet for performance.

Key features

  • Requires a z-fold wallet for performance

  • Similar to a routine popularized by David Blaine

  • Involves a two-card transposition

  • Close-up magic trick

  • Low difficulty level for magicians familiar with wallet orientation

Pros

  • Engaging and visual effect

  • Low difficulty level for experienced magicians

  • Can be performed with a relatively inexpensive z-fold wallet

Cons

  • Requires a z-fold wallet, which may not be as secure as a Himber wallet

  • Performance requires careful angle management to avoid exposure

  • Not inspectable by the audience

Effect

The trick called Snappy is a two-card transposition effect. It resembles a routine popularized by David Blaine in his Street Magic special. The magician shows two cards, and they appear to switch places in an impossible way. The spectator holds one card, only to discover it has transformed into a different one.

Full details

Snappy is performed using a z-fold wallet, specifically the Elite Z Fold Wallet by Alakazam. The wallet has multiple pockets, including a clear pocket for visual cues and individual card slots. Unlike a Himber wallet, the z-fold design lacks a locking mechanism, meaning performers must control angles to prevent accidental exposure.

The trick is taught as part of the wallet's instructional material, alongside other routines like a two-card transpo, a kicker effect, an ESP prediction, and a torn-and-restored card routine.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who enjoy impromptu card magic and wallet-based effects will find Snappy useful. It suits performers comfortable with angle management and who prefer a z-fold wallet's flexibility over a locking mechanism. Those familiar with David Blaine’s style may appreciate the similarity in presentation.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is low for magicians who understand z-fold wallet mechanics. The main challenge is maintaining proper angles to prevent the wallet from swinging open. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes that "a z-fold wallet is super easy to use" as long as the performer keeps track of orientation.

What magicians say

David from Magic Orthodoxy reviewed the Elite Z Fold Wallet and its included tricks, including Snappy. He highlights that the wallet is well-made but cautions about its lack of a locking mechanism. He says, "I kind of always prefer Himbers over z-folds just because of the fact that there's no way to lock it," but acknowledges that some performers prefer the z-fold's flexibility.

He also mentions that the trick resembles David Blaine’s routine, making it a recognizable and engaging effect for audiences. The wallet’s design, including extra pockets, helps with organization during performances.

For magicians considering Snappy, the key takeaway is that it’s an accessible trick with strong visual impact, but proper handling of the wallet is necessary to maintain the illusion.

What people are saying about Snappy

magicorthodoxy says...

The second trick is called Snappy, uh this is also a two-card transpo very similar to the one that David Blaine did in his street magic special where the two cards change place [...] a zold wallet is super easy to use doesn't require any skill as long as you understand your orientation.

Review videos