How to Decide Which Cards to Use in Magic Tricks

One of the first considerations of someone wanting to get into magic tricks is what cards to use. While some tricks require only basic shuffling and cutting, some tricks require tricky maneuvers and for this you will need cards you can handle well. Other considerations are price, durability and the integrity of your magic tricks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Perform most tricks with a standard 52 card deck. Some tricks may require jokers, but unless the jokers are necessary for the trick to be successful, remove them.

2. Look for playing cards with an air cushion finish. Cards with an air cushion finish will slide easier in your hands, making it easier to deal and perform fans and spreads. Look for Bee or Bicycle brand cards, because these brands usually feature air cushion finishes.

3. Choose plastic if you want the most durable cards. If your cards will endure a lot of stress during the course of your magic tricks, consider plastic cards. They will last the longest and are least likely to bend or tear. They are, however, the most expensive.

4. Consider vinyl cards as a cheaper option to plastic. Vinyl cards have the same properties as plastic cards, but have a shorter lifespan and after a lot of use can start to bend.

5. Get cards which look familiar to an audience. When deciding what cards to use for your magic tricks, consider what the audience perception of the cards could be. If there is anything about the cards which might make them look suspicious, such as an unusual design or shape, choose something more standard.

Tips & Warnings

• Always count your cards before the trick to make sure the deck is a full 52 cards minus the jokers. Anything less or more is not a standard deck and could cause some tricks to not work or the integrity of your magic tricks to be questioned.
• Plastic cards are washable. If something gets on a plastic card, just wipe if off with a damp wash cloth.