Card to Box Transpo

An impromptu transposition of two cards, with one card sealed inside the card box.

Adam Elbaum
Card to Box Transpo

In this month’s column, we’ll explore my handling and favorite application for Marlo’s Card to Card Case (Ed Marlo’s Deck Deception, 1942). There are many strong handlings in the literature, most notably by Matt Schulien (Philip R. Willmarth’s The Magic of Matt Schulien, 1959). My approach uses the Rear Palm, which I believe makes the Card to Card Case more deceptive. It also includes a few subtleties that may elevate whichever handling you prefer.

I’ve used the Rear Palm for most of my life and have always found it to be an excellent, widely underutilized palm. It’s especially effective here, as it makes the hand look unquestionably empty and removes any suspicion of a concealed card. Whether you adopt my handling or prefer another, the construction of the overall effect is worth your consideration.

Along the way, I’ll teach a versatile switch with many other applications, and I’ll also highlight my favorite color change, which is largely unknown. I’ll include a few additional ideas at the end that I hope you’ll find interesting.

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