How to Combine a Regular Deck With a Svengali Deck

The Svengali can be roughed, include materials that retain heat so the magician can find a card, or be specially designed metal cards with a magnet so that a selected card always rises to the top. These characteristics make it easy to perform several advanced magic tricks. During a magic show, magicians have a tendency to use both a Svengali deck and a regular deck of cards.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Buy a Svengali deck. You can find a Svengali deck of cards at almost any magic shop. Choose a Bicycle brand Svengali deck in either red or blue. Your Svengali deck consists of 26 different suited cards and 26 cards of the same number and suit.

2. Look for a matching regular deck of cards. Once you select your Svengali deck of cards, choose the same style in a regular Bicycle deck of cards. Almost any store that sells cards will carry the Bicycle brand.

3. Decide on the tricks that you’ll perform with each type of cards. Once you develop your magic routine, you’ll get a better idea of what deck to use for each trick. For example, the Ambitious card trick is an ideal trick to perform with the Svengali deck.

4. Learn to routinely switch the 2 sets during a magic set. You don't want the audience to see the Svengali deck because of the large number of same suited cards in it. Show the regular deck to the audience and then retrieve the Svengali deck from a hiding spot on stage to use for the trick.

Tips & Warnings

• When you buy the Svengali deck, you should get an instruction booklet. Use this booklet to learn how to perform new tricks with the deck.
• You can allow audience members to examine the regular deck, but not the Svengali deck. They’ll likely notice the different markings and feel of the cards.