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Snowstorm Blank Deck by Tom Dobrowolski

Created by: Tom Dobrowolski

Snowstorm in Chicago by Tom Dobrowolski is a captivating close-up card trick that combines the classic Chicago Opener with the Snowstorm blank deck effect. The magician presents a shuffled deck, has a spectator draw three cards, and then reveals three prediction cards from their pocket that initially match the spectator's selections before revealing all cards, including the deck, to be blank. This trick relies on sleight of hand, specifically double lifts and top changes, and comes with a Bicycle-branded blank-faced deck and three red prediction cards. Suitable for intermediate magicians, it requires minimal pocket space and offers a visually engaging routine.

Key features

  • Combines Chicago Opener with Snowstorm blank deck effect

  • Relies on sleight of hand (double lifts and top changes)

  • Includes Bicycle-branded blank-faced deck and three red prediction cards

  • Suitable for intermediate magicians

  • Short routine with minimal pocket space requirement

Pros

  • Well-made and enjoyable effect

  • Relies on skill rather than gimmicks

  • Includes quality deck of cards

  • No memory work required

  • Everything can be examined

Cons

  • Teaching portion is brief (12 minutes)

  • May require speeding up the routine to maintain audience engagement

Effect

The Snowstorm Blank Deck trick combines the Chicago Opener plot with a blank deck surprise. A spectator freely selects three cards from a shuffled deck. The magician then reveals three prediction cards from their pocket, seemingly matching the spectator's choices. However, each prediction card changes to match the spectator's selection—first all three of Spades, then all three Queens of Hearts, and finally all three Eights of Diamonds. The climax reveals that the spectator's cards and the entire deck are blank, creating a moment of confusion and astonishment.

Full Details

The trick includes a Bicycle-branded blank-faced deck and three red prediction cards. It relies on sleight of hand, specifically double lifts and top changes, to create the illusion of pulling cards from different positions in the deck. The routine is short and requires minimal pocket space, making it practical for performance. No memory work is needed, as the magician does not need to remember the spectator's selections.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for intermediate magicians comfortable with sleight of hand. Those who enjoy the Chicago Opener or blank deck effects will find this combination engaging. It is ideal for performers who prefer skill-based magic over gimmicks.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick requires proficiency in double lifts and top changes. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes that while the moves are manageable for intermediate performers, accuracy is crucial to maintain the illusion. The teaching portion is brief (12 minutes), so familiarity with basic card handling is recommended.

What Magicians Say

David describes the trick as "a lot of fun" and praises Tom Dobrowolski's handling, stating that "Tom's way each card really does look like you're pulling it from the place you say." He appreciates that the effect relies on skill rather than gimmicks and highlights the practicality of the included deck and prediction cards. While he notes the short teaching segment, he considers the effect strong enough to justify the purchase.

For those interested in the Chicago Opener or blank deck magic, the Snowstorm Blank Deck offers a deceptive and visually engaging routine.

What people are saying about Snowstorm Blank Deck

magicorthodoxy says...

It's a fun trick especially if you like the Chicago opener plot or the snowstorm plot it's neat to see these two together.

Review videos