Video:The Rising Card
with Al ArchimageThe rising card magic trick is easy to perform as long as you memorize one card and have nimble fingers. Check out how to perform this rising card illusion.
Transcript:The Rising Card
Hi, my name is Al Archimage for About.com, and today I’m going to show you how to perform the Rising Card Trick. This is a fun and easy trick perform. This simple illusion is a great introduction to magic for children of all ages. To demonstrate this, my assistant Alvaro will perform the trick, and then show you the secret behind the illusion.
Use a Deck of Cards
The idea of this trick is to have someone select a card, memorize it, then place it back into the deck. You then place your finger on the top of the deck and magically raise the card they selected. To perform this, you will only need a deck of cards.
Memorize the Card at the Bottom
There are two parts to this trick. The first is locating the card after it has been placed into the deck. In order to accomplish this, you will need to practice your sleight-of-hand maneuvering. First, memorize the card located on the bottom of the deck. Have the spectator select anyone except the bottom card.
Next, split the deck in half and have them place their card on top of the first half, then place the bottom deck over the top. If done properly, their card should now be immediately to the right of the bottom card you had previously memorized.
Practice Sleight of Hand
Next, quickly scan through the deck, pretending you are memorizing the location of every card. Find the spectator's card by locating it to the right of the card you had previously memorized.
Hold the deck in your left hand and point the index finger of your right hand just above the deck. If you are left-handed and want to perform the trick with your other hand, simply reverse the instructions.
Place your index finger on top of the deck while discretely extending your pinky finger and pressing it firmly against the bottom of the card. Make sure the spectator is directly in front of you so they do not see this move.
While slowly raising your index finger, allow your pinky to push the card upwards so that the card rises with your finger. You can then grab the card and show it to the spectator, allowing them to examine it.