Marked card magic is incredibly versatile. They can be used for a variety effects and can also be used as a safety net if something goes wrong.
The first thing you should remember about marked cards, is that they are not easily seen with the naked eyes. There are many ways to determine if a deck has been marked. These tests include black light, certain filters and angled lights, as well as the “riffle”, test.
You can also look at the backs of the cards to identify a marked deck. These marks are usually written in a coded system or embodied in a clock face. They can be easily understood and can give you an idea about the card’s value and suit.
These marks can also be tactile. Some decks also use a stripper technique to separate certain cards from others through their feel. This can be very helpful if you need to know who has a high hand or if someone is playing a seven low.
For magicians performing close-up magic, a marked deck can be a powerful tool. This can open up new opportunities, such as a spectator cutting the selection after he has shuffled the deck or a magician being capable of recognizing the top card in a deck without ever touching it.
A marked deck is a vital part of any magician’s repertoire. Every magician should have one. The marked deck can also work well with an invisible deck, making them even more effective for close-up effects.
