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Spread Force by Jay Sankey

Created by: Jay Sankey

Spread Force is a versatile and deceptive card force technique that allows a magician to make it appear as though a spectator has freely chosen a card, while in reality, the magician has controlled the selection. This method is particularly effective because the chosen card remains in the deck, making the selection seem even more fair and impossible to predict. It's a close-up magic trick that works well in casual settings, making it a great addition to any magician's repertoire. The trick involves spreading the cards and allowing the spectator to touch any card, but through clever handling, the magician ensures the force card is always selected. This technique is ideal for mentalism effects, card revelations, or any routine where a controlled card selection is needed.

Key features

  • Keeps the force card in the deck, enhancing the illusion of fairness

  • Works well for mentalism and card revelation routines

  • Simple to learn but requires practice to master

  • Versatile and can be adapted to various performance styles

  • Great for close-up magic in casual or professional settings

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and fair-looking

  • Easy to perform once mastered

  • Versatile for different types of card magic

  • Keeps the force card in the deck, adding to the mystery

  • Great for both beginners and experienced magicians

Cons

  • Requires practice to perform smoothly

  • May not be suitable for large audiences

  • Relies on precise handling to avoid detection

Effect

The Spread Force is a card force technique that makes it appear as though a spectator has freely chosen a card from a spread deck. The magician spreads the cards face down, and the spectator touches any card they like. Despite the apparent freedom of choice, the magician ensures that the spectator selects a predetermined card. The effect is clean and convincing, leaving the audience with the impression that the selection was entirely random.

Full details

The Spread Force involves a specific handling of the deck to control the selection process. The force card is positioned in a way that allows the magician to guide the spectator’s choice without them realizing it. The magician spreads the cards and invites the spectator to touch one. Through subtle techniques, the magician ensures that the spectator’s touch lands on the force card. The card remains in the deck during the process, making the reveal even more surprising. This method is particularly effective because it maintains the illusion of fairness and randomness.

Who should consider the trick

The Spread Force is ideal for magicians who want a reliable and versatile card force that works well in real-world performances. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced performers. Beginners will appreciate its straightforward handling, while experienced magicians can use it to enhance their routines. This trick is especially useful for those who perform close-up magic or mentalism, as it creates a strong impression of mind-reading or prediction.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Spread Force is relatively easy to learn, making it accessible for magicians of all skill levels. However, like any card technique, it requires practice to perform smoothly and convincingly. The key is to make the spread and selection process appear natural and unforced. With consistent practice, most magicians can master this technique and incorporate it into their performances effectively.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey, a well-known magician, describes the Spread Force as a "particularly commercial" technique that is "easy to do" and "looks damn good." He emphasizes its practicality in real-world performances, noting that it allows the magician to "get in and get out" quickly. Sankey also highlights the importance of presentation, suggesting that the Spread Force can be used to create a strong connection with the audience. He recommends it as a valuable addition to any magician’s toolkit, especially for those looking to enhance their card magic routines.

What people are saying about Spread Force

SankeyMagic says...

The Spread Force is particularly nice for pretending to read someone's mind because the card is not actually removed from the deck, which adds to the mystery.

Tutorial videos