The Effect
A spectator freely selects a playing card which is returned to the deck. The cards are placed back inside their box and, after a moment of suspense, the chosen card slowly rises from the pack all by itself.
The effect is dramatic, requires very little sleight of hand and uses a simple secret preparation hidden inside an ordinary card box.
Before You Begin
You will need an ordinary deck of cards and an empty card box that can be secretly prepared with a narrow opening as shown in the photograph.
Take your time preparing the box neatly. A clean opening makes the finished effect much more convincing.
Always use a cutting mat and take care when using a craft knife.
Prepare the Card Box
Carefully cut a rectangular opening in the back of the card box, following the position shown in the photograph.
This prepared side must remain facing away from the spectator throughout the performance.
Let the Spectator Choose a Card
Fan the deck and allow the spectator to freely select and remember any card.
Their card must eventually be controlled to the bottom of the deck.
Hold a Pinky Break
Open the deck and maintain a small pinky break where you want the spectator to return their card.
Their chosen card should be placed directly above the break.
Control the Card to the Bottom
Square the deck, then cut the cards above the pinky break onto the table.
Place the remaining packet on top. The spectator’s selected card will now be on the bottom of the deck.
Load the Prepared Box
Place the deck inside the prepared card box with the selected card against the side containing the hidden opening.
Close the box while using the flap to keep the selected card separated slightly from the rest of the deck.
Make the Card Rise
Hold the box in front of the spectator with the prepared side facing away from them.
Secretly press your thumb through the opening and slowly push the bottom card upwards.
Keep the movement smooth so the card appears to rise by magic.
Reveal the Chosen Card
From the spectator’s viewpoint, their card appears to rise from the middle of the boxed deck.
Practise in front of a mirror to ensure your thumb and the hidden opening remain out of sight.
Once the card has risen far enough, remove it and present it to the spectator.
See the Effect in Action
This animation shows how the rising card appears from the spectator’s point of view.
Performance Tips
Practise the trick in front of a mirror so you can check your angles and make certain the prepared side of the box is never exposed.
Push the card upward slowly and evenly. A gradual rise looks much more mysterious than a quick movement.
Use a short magical gesture or phrase before the card begins to move. This builds anticipation and gives the effect a clear magical moment.
Keep the prepared card box separate from ordinary boxes so it is not accidentally handed out for examination.