The Houdini Deck by Defatto

Created by: Defatto

The Houdini Deck by Defatto is a classic self-working magic trick where a selected card vanishes from a padlocked deck. The spectator chooses a card, which is then locked within the deck using a padlock. Despite the deck being securely locked, the chosen card mysteriously disappears and can be found elsewhere, such as in the magician's pocket or an envelope. This trick is ideal for beginners or as a reliable pocket trick, offering strong reactions with minimal effort. It's a close-up magic trick that plays on the themes of impossibility and escape, reminiscent of Houdini's legendary feats.

Where to buy

	Monster Magic	The Houdini Deck by Vincenzo Di Fatta	£20.99	🇬🇧 Shop
	Alakazam Magic	The Houdini Deck by Vincenzo Di Fatta - Trick	£23.53	🇬🇧 Shop

Key features

Self-working, making it ideal for beginners
Comes with a padlock for the full effect
Strong reactions with minimal effort
Perfect as a reliable pocket trick

Pros

Simple to perform with no complex moves required
Comes with all necessary components including a padlock
Produces strong reactions from spectators
Great for beginners due to its self-working nature

Cons

The same card is always used, limiting repeatability for the same audience
The padlock can be cumbersome to carry around

Effect

The Houdini Deck by Defatto creates a baffling moment where a selected card vanishes from a padlocked deck. A spectator freely chooses a card, which is then locked securely inside the deck using a heavy padlock. Despite the deck being completely sealed, the chosen card disappears, only to reappear in an impossible location—such as the magician’s pocket or an envelope. The effect is visual, direct, and leaves no room for suspicion.

Full Details

The Houdini Deck consists of a standard deck of cards with a small hole drilled through one corner. A padlock is included, which threads through this hole to secure the deck. The spectator selects a card, which is then locked inside the deck. When they search through the cards, their selection is gone, despite the deck remaining untouched. The trick is self-working, requiring no sleight of hand, and resets instantly for repeated performances.

One limitation is that the same card reappears each time, making it unsuitable for repeating with the same audience. However, the strong visual impact and simplicity make it a reliable choice for quick, powerful magic.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Houdini Deck is ideal for beginners due to its self-working nature. It’s also a great option for experienced magicians looking for a reliable, no-fuss trick that packs a punch. Performers who enjoy visual, lock-based magic or need a quick, foolproof effect will appreciate its straightforward handling.

Difficulty

The trick is rated as very easy to perform. No advanced moves or sleight of hand are required. The only skill needed is confident presentation to enhance the illusion. Setup is minimal, and the deck resets instantly, making it practical for impromptu performances.

What Magicians Say

Alex Kirk of The Monster Magic Saturday Show describes The Houdini Deck as a "self-working classic" that still delivers strong reactions. He recalls using it early in his magic journey and praises its simplicity, stating, "It’s virtually self-working and all you’ve got to do is decide where you want their chosen card to appear."

Kirk acknowledges the limitation of the same card reappearing but emphasizes its reliability: "It’s not going to win your FISM, but I think it’s a really good trick." He also highlights the visual impact of the padlock, calling it a "big, heavy padlock" that adds to the impossibility of the effect.

Other magicians appreciate its practicality—no reset time, no complicated moves, and a strong, self-contained routine. The Houdini Deck remains a favorite for those who value simplicity and strong audience reactions.

What people are saying about The Houdini Deck

monstermagicshop says...

A self-working classic where a selected card vanishes from a padlocked deck. Kirk reminisced about its strong reactions and simplicity, though he acknowledged its limitation (the same card reappears). Ideal for beginners or as a reliable pocket trick.