Signing a Card and Then Erasing the Signature
Hey everyone, I've got a homemade gimmick (a zig-zag gimmick) that I'd like to have signed. The thing is, I'd want to be able to remove the signature afterward so I can reuse it and not have to make a new one every time. Any tips for writing on a card and then cleanly erasing it? I've tried whiteboard markers, but they don't look good; you can still see the mark. Erasable pens don't write clearly, and you have to press hard, which ends up marking the card as well.
Any ideas are much appreciated!
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Answering my own question: I've thought about using a small white square or circular sticker, like the kind you put on freezer bags. I'd do it in front of the spectator, saying, "This way I don't mess up a card, and it gives you a clear spot to sign." And that also helps guide them to sign on a part of the card where there isn't an edge or a raised area that would feel unnatural when they sign.
Honestly, that's what I usually do when I want to use special decks, and I'm pretty open about it. I explain that decks can be pricey, that money doesn't grow on trees, and that I've grown quite attached to that specific deck.
The key is for them to perceive the card as truly unique, not just the signature itself.
Another idea:
What I do is use a Pilot Frixion pen; you don't have to apply any pressure at all, and then with heat or moisture, the ink disappears without a trace. I picked them up at a dollar store.
You take a sticker, have them sign it, stick it on the card, and then remove it very easily.
Answers:
https://magigram.com/en/club/beginners/signed-deck-6784/
https://magigram.com/en/club/magic/what-to-do-after-a-card-is-signed-6089/
More ideas:
🧪 1. Dry-Erase Markers (but not just any kind)
Not all of them work well. Some leave "ghosting" (faint marks that don't completely disappear). Try these brands that usually perform better:
Tip: Write on a clear card sleeve, not directly on the card itself. This way, you avoid marking the card permanently.
🃏 2. Laminate the Card or Use Sleeves
If you need to write and erase multiple times, you can laminate a card (matte or gloss) or use a clear sleeve. Then write on it with a dry-erase marker or non-permanent marker.
🎯 Advantage: You can always use the same card and reuse it countless times.
🧼 3. "Frixion" Ink (Erasable Pens)
Those erasable pens like Pilot Frixion sometimes don't work well on laminated paper or regular cards because they need heat to erase (and they can also leave impressions).
Trick: If you laminate or apply a layer of wide adhesive tape to the card, you can use Frixion and erase it with a lighter (from the back) or a hairdryer. Thermo-magic!
🔍 4. Invisible Tape + Any Pen
Cover the part of the card where you'll write with invisible tape (like Scotch). Write on it, and then you can remove the tape without damaging the card.
Ideal for a single use, if you don't need to rewrite multiple times.
Thanks a lot!! I'll give that a try. Cheers,