Spelling Procedure by Harry Lorayne and Ed Marlo

Created by: Harry Lorayne, Ed Marlo

Spelling Procedure is a classic card magic routine where the magician performs a stunning four-ace revelation using a borrowed, shuffled deck. In this close-up card trick, the spectator names any one of the four aces. The magician then proceeds to spell to that chosen ace from the shuffled deck, with the other three aces being revealed as part of the spelling process. The effect creates the illusion that the magician has complete control over the deck's order despite apparent randomization, making it perfect for interactive performances where the audience participates in the spelling. Buyers should know this teaches two distinct methods from legendary magicians Harry Lorayne and Ed Marlo, each with different presentation styles and technical requirements.

Key features

  • Two complete four-ace routines from legendary magicians Harry Lorayne and Ed Marlo

  • Designed for real-world performance with a borrowed, shuffled deck

  • Lorayne's method uses an interactive spelling procedure that involves audience participation

  • Marlo's method involves genuinely cutting to three aces with a deceptive fourth ace revelation

  • Includes performance tips on presentation styles and necessary controls

  • Suitable for magicians looking to add classic ace plots to their repertoire

  • Teaches advanced false shuffles, cuts, and controls for the Marlo routine

Pros

  • Two distinct methods from masters of card magic

  • Audience-tested routines suitable for real-world performance

  • Interactive presentation that engages spectators

  • Technically impressive methods that create strong magical moments

  • Complete teaching with performance tips and presentation advice

Cons

  • Marlo's routine requires advanced false shuffles and controls

  • May require significant practice to master the technical aspects

  • Some magicians might prefer one method over the other

Effect

The Spelling Procedure trick makes four aces appear from a shuffled deck. A spectator names any ace. The magician then spells the name of that ace, dealing one card for each letter. The named ace appears at the end of the spelling. The other three aces are found in surprising ways during the process.

Full details

This trick is a four-ace routine. It uses a spelling procedure as its main method. The deck can be borrowed and shuffled. The trick requires a specific setup before performance. The handling makes the spelling sequence look fair. The routine ends with all four aces revealed.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is for magicians who want a classic ace routine. It is good for performers who use borrowed decks. It suits those who like interactive magic where the audience participates. It is a strong choice for real-world performance conditions.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty is moderate. It requires learning a specific setup and a memorable handling. The spelling procedure must be performed smoothly. The method does not need advanced sleight of hand. Practice is needed to make the spelling appear natural and fair.

What magicians say

The video creator, profrt, teaches this Harry Lorayne routine. Profrt says the effect is "audience-tested." He describes it as a "direct, audience-tested piece of magic." He notes the routine is "great for a more interactive, puzzle-like presentation." Profrt compares it to an Ed Marlo routine, stating Lorayne's method is for a "more interactive" style.

What people are saying about Spelling Procedure

profrt says...

The Lorayne effect is presented as a direct, audience-tested piece of magic, while the Marlo routine is framed as a more deceptive and technically impressive feat. Both methods are designed to be performed with a borrowed, shuffled deck.

Tutorial videos