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Stress Card by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

The 'Stress Card' trick is a captivating close-up magic effect that utilizes a Svengali deck to create a seemingly impossible prediction. A spectator is involved in the magic by seemingly forcing a card into the deck while it's being dribbled. The trick emphasizes the spectator's calmness and relaxation, with the magician using a stress card for added misdirection and engagement. The climax occurs when the spectator's card lands on the correct predicted card, creating a moment of astonishment. This trick is perfect for magicians looking to add a interactive and psychological element to their Svengali deck performances.

Key features

  • Utilizes a Svengali deck for a unique prediction effect

  • Involves the spectator in the magic, making it interactive

  • Relies on the spectator's calmness and relaxation for success

  • Incorporates a stress card for added misdirection

  • Suitable for close-up magic performances

Pros

  • Interactive and engaging for the audience

  • Adds a psychological element to the performance

  • Easy to learn for those familiar with Svengali decks

  • Creates a strong moment of astonishment

Cons

  • Requires a Svengali deck, which may not be familiar to all magicians

  • Success depends on the spectator's ability to stay calm

Effect

The Stress Card effect is a clever application of the Svengali deck that makes the spectator appear to perform the magic. A spectator places their thumb on a card for about 10 seconds while the magician dribbles the deck. The spectator then releases the card, letting it fall into the falling cards. Despite the apparent randomness, the chosen card lands perfectly on a predetermined card, creating a moment of surprise and wonder.

Full Details

This effect is part of Craig Petty’s Svengali Project, which expands the possibilities of the Svengali deck. The key to success lies in the spectator’s ability to stay relaxed while performing the move. The magician dribbles the cards, and the spectator releases their card at the right moment. A stress card can be used to add misdirection and engagement. Observing the spectator’s demeanor helps determine if they can execute the move correctly.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

  • Already use or want to explore Svengali deck techniques.
  • Enjoy interactive magic where the spectator appears to do the impossible.
  • Want a fresh take on classic card forces.
  • Prefer effects that rely on psychology and spectator involvement rather than complex sleight of hand.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level is moderate. While the mechanics rely on the Svengali deck, the performance hinges on spectator management. The magician must guide the spectator smoothly and ensure they remain relaxed. The dribble and timing require practice, but the method itself is not overly technical.

What Magicians Say

J Ro from StevensMagicEmporium praises the effect, calling it one of his favorites. He notes that while many magicians know the Svengali deck, this application offers something new. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the spectator calm, saying, "When you do estimations, you got to stay calm." He also highlights the spectator’s reaction when their card lands perfectly, calling it a "good job" moment.

J Ro recommends the Svengali Project for magicians looking to expand their routines, stating, "You're going to love it." His demonstration shows that even those new to Svengali decks can master this effect with practice.

What people are saying about Stress Card

StevensMagicEmporium says...

I just want to show one of them one of them is having your spectator do the magic now I uh you can do this with anything but I like to involve a stress card and I learned that when you do estimations you got to stay calm you got to estimate stay calm [...] and that's just one thing you guys will perform trust me you're going to love it and check it out

Tutorial videos