How to Use the Double-Lift Technique

The Double-Lift technique, as described in my article on the technique, involves lifting two cards and presenting them to the spectator as only one card.

The technique is utilized by just about every magician and can make even the simplest tricks seem that much better.

How and when to use this technique is something that not all magicians understand. This tutorial will instruct you on when and how to incorporate double-lifts into your magical routine.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• deck of cards
• spectators
• magic routine

How to Use the Double-Lift Technique

1. As blunt as it sounds, be able to double-lift. You cannot use the technique in a performance if you do not know the technique perfectly.

2. At the beginning of your routine, use double-lifts as actual tricks. Think of how great of a warmup that would be. You would present two cards as one and then reveal the top card to be different than the one they just saw.
   
   As simple as that is if you know the technique, it will blow people's minds.

3. Gradually progress the difficulty of the tricks in the performance. Progress until double-lifting is merely a technique in a big trick, not the trick itself.

4. Do not overdo it. Double-lifting is an amazing technique but one that can be very easy to detect if seen enough.

5. Be sure to speak with your spectators as you double-lift so that they are focusing on you, not the cards.
   
   People tend to stare at the cards because everybody wants to know the secrets of magicians. Talking to them is the easiest form of misdirection.

6. After a few tricks involving double-lifts, shift your routine to coins or something not involving the technique. That way, when you bring it back, it will seem fresh and exciting.
   
   This also prevents the spectators from catching on.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not even read this article if you do not know how to double-lift. You need to know the technique before using it.