Marked decks of playing cards are an extremely powerful tool for magicians. It is easy to identify the suits, values and ranks.
The first marking methods that were used were crimps and tiny pinprick bumps known as blisters that look like Braille. Later hustlers added lines or removed them from the backs and sides of card designs by using different inks and colors.
Product Introduction
If you’re a seasoned card player seeking a way to improve your game to the next level the marked playing cards will give you that extra edge you need. These cards are marked with a sophisticated system that allows you to identify the suit and rank of the cards in games. This gives you a significant advantage over your opponents. You can also pair them with a poker analyzer to determine what cards your opponent holds and make smarter choices when playing.
The decks have been printed on Bicycle Elite stock of the highest quality that’s why they feel and look like a normal deck of cards. This means your audience won’t even know you’re using marked cards, making they’re a must-have for professional magicians. Three downloads are provided to teach you the best tricks to mark the deck of playing cards.
The markings can be viewed in two different ways: on both long edges of the card. In this case, the “two-way marking system” is employed. This allows you to discern the value (1 of 13 possible values) and suit (using dots) on any part of the card. This is one of the most innovative marking systems that has ever been designed for an entire deck of cards and it allows this deck to be used for a variety of effects. The “one-way marking system” is only visible on one long edge. This allows you to quickly locate any card with the name, even if they are reversed.
History
Through the years, marked playing cards have continued to amaze and enthral. The decks of cards are marked with discreet markings that allow magicians and card cheats to identify values and suits without revealing. The marks are strategically placed to deter being detected and are created using various methods, including specific printing techniques and UV technology.
Some marked decks being offered for sale are advertised as difficult for people to read. While this might be true, it isn’t practical. Performers have enough to think about technique, presentation and technique without having to also be concerned about decoding obscure symbols on the back of cards.
Treat your marked deck like a normal deck. People will assume that you’re using a fake set if they are able to clearly identify the cards or if the patter is too obvious. Remember that the most important element of your performance is to develop an engaging routine that will delight your audience. It’s not fun to stare at a piece of paper while trying to figure out the code.
Quality
A marked deck will not perform miracles on its own. It is essential to know the right techniques to be efficient, and this requires much effort during the preparation phase. It is impressive that it opens new possibilities and makes existing methods more effective.
The decks marked with a mark are of high-quality and are trusted by both casinos as well as competitions. It is important to be aware of the differences between different marks. Some are extremely subtle and require a particular skill to read, while others are extremely obvious and can be easily recognized by honest players.
A few of the most well-known methods for marking cards are built on juice and tintwork. The cheater will devise an elaborate formula to alter the tone and color of the deck of cards. Some of these techniques are so subtle that a skilled cheater might be able to read the cards without sunglasses or other gimmicks.
These techniques are employed by professional cheaters to win at card games and casinos. They have proven very successful. Some of these systems were discovered by reputable casino and are being investigated for fraud. However there are other marks that are just as useful and carry a lower chance of being detected. These systems are based upon complex chemical formulas and optical scientific principles and they are designed to be inaccessible to observers.
Apps
Marked cards can be used to enhance magic tricks and card tricks. They are a great tool for a number of card forces (sleights that require the audience to choose a specific card while maintaining the illusion of free choice). They also help for performing various kinds of matrix magic.
Marking a deck can be accomplished with a variety of techniques, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Some rely on a particular tint or paste that has to be applied to a legal deck, and then hidden. Some depend on subtle variations in color, pattern or shade which can only be perceived by a trained eye. Others are only read by lenses that are specially designed or barcode readers and are not visible to casual viewers.
A lot of these techniques can be reverse engineered if a magician is willing to take the time but they are not practical. The performer is already occupied with patter, presentation, and the technique. Adding the additional task of decoding the backs of cards could detract from their main goals.
A more effective and practical system is the Code, developed by theory11. This method enables the performer to instantly divine a selected card without the need for force or memorization, and without even looking at the chosen card! The code is simple to comprehend, it works using a variety of effects, and can be performed in conjunction with other tricks for cards.