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Step by Jason Ladanye

Created by: Jason Ladanye

Step is a close-up card magic trick that involves catching a selected card from the center of a dribbled deck in a visually striking manner. The trick has gained popularity through viral performances and is suitable for intermediate to advanced magicians. It offers multiple methods to achieve the effect, including using a break, an injog, or a step in the deck, allowing performers to choose the technique that best suits their style and skill level.

Key features

  • Offers 7 different methods to catch a card from a dribble

  • Suitable for intermediate to advanced magicians

  • Includes performance tips and practice advice

  • Can be performed blindfolded for added effect

  • Visually striking and engaging for audiences

Pros

  • Multiple methods allow for customization based on skill level

  • Visually impressive effect that captivates audiences

  • Includes detailed performance tips for each method

  • Can be adapted for blindfolded performances

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to master

  • Some methods may be challenging for beginners

  • Performance may vary based on angle and speed

Effect

The Step is a sleight used to catch a selected card from the center of a dribbled deck. To the audience, it appears as if the magician effortlessly plucks the chosen card from a fast-moving cascade of falling cards. The effect is visually striking, making it a popular choice for performances that emphasize skill and precision.

Full Details

The Step involves creating a small misalignment (an injog) in the deck, allowing the magician to isolate and catch the selected card during a dribble. The key steps include:

  • Holding a break at the selected card.
  • Adjusting the card’s position slightly so it protrudes from the deck.
  • Using the thumb and pinky to control the card while dribbling.
  • Timing the catch as the card becomes accessible during the dribble.

This method is one of several ways to achieve the effect, but it stands out for its balance of visual appeal and practicality.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Step is best suited for intermediate to advanced magicians who are comfortable with sleight-heavy techniques. It requires precise finger control and timing, making it less ideal for beginners. Performers who enjoy visually deceptive flourishes or want to add a dynamic element to their card routines will find this technique valuable.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Step is moderately difficult. It demands consistent practice to master the timing and finger positioning. The creator of the tutorial notes that while the method is not overly complex, it requires familiarity with card handling to execute smoothly. The small injog variation is highlighted as the cleanest and most deceptive, but it still needs refinement to avoid detection.

What Magicians Say

BigBlindMedia, the creator of the tutorial, describes the Step as their "go-to method" for catching a card from a dribble. They praise its natural appearance, stating:

"Because of that step, because of those fingers contacting the card, you can just dribble, feel when the cards are coming close, and stick your hand in at that point. It is beautiful because the card is really coming from the center."

They also emphasize that while other methods exist, the Step stands out for its deceptive simplicity. However, they caution that practice is essential to avoid mishaps, such as cards falling prematurely or the misalignment being too noticeable.

For magicians looking to expand their repertoire with a visually impressive flourish, the Step offers a compelling option—provided they invest the necessary practice time.

What people are saying about Step

BigBlindMedia says...

The 7th method – using a small *injog* – is my personal favorite and the cleanest approach for live performances. [...] It's beautiful because the card is really coming from the center with very minimal things people can actually see.

Tutorial videos