@Jaime:

...what kind of “experiments / DIY projects” you've done to create different magic effects or simply recreate existing ones.

For me, almost EVERYTHING (and I'm still making new things). 😊

@Jaime:

How could you make an Invisible Deck at home?

It's super easy if you already know the secret (the back-to-back setup where the values add up to 13, with the kings being the exception); all you need is anti-slip coating for the backs.

This can be magician-specific stuff (I don't think Julio sells it in the shop) in spray or stick form, or alternative options like transparent anti-slip spray, anti-slip wax for eyeglasses, matte varnish, etc.

Oh, and most importantly, patience, because even though it's not complicated, you have to apply it consistently across the entire deck for the best possible result, meaning it should barely be noticeable and provide good grip.

NOTE:

It's not entirely confirmed yet, but a new category might be coming soon, something like, "Magician's Workshop - DIY" (the title doesn't necessarily have to be that 😅), but it would be a specific section for uploading this kind of content, sharing ideas, troubleshooting, and answering questions. As I said, it's not definite yet, but it could happen.

All the best and happy magic!!!

Here I am setting up my magic workshop. It's pretty basic for now, but I'll gradually expand it as I learn more. I really love the DIY approach!

(I'm waiting for my corner rounder and then the guillotine, in addition to other materials I'll add as I need them. For now, I'm well-stocked on elastic invisible thread and glue!😁)

Personally, I really enjoy expanding my knowledge and creativity, and experimenting with all the different facets of this wonderful world. And since knowledge is never wasted, everyone's free to use that information—or not—as they choose. Personally, I love the idea of being able to create my own "gimmicks." I believe that without them, stage magic wouldn't be the same, but that's not really the point. What I mean is, the feeling of making something and having it work is just incredible, not to mention that not everyone can afford the expense of buying them. This way, at least, they can experience it without the financial barrier. I'm one of those who thinks money shouldn't be a barrier in this world. Sure, the quality might be inferior; it's clear it won't have that perfect finish. We're not factories, and we don't have their tools—which, I guess, explains the prices, among other things. But I promise you, you'll genuinely enjoy your creation, no matter how simple it is, and that passion truly shines through. I also believe that gimmicks are just tools, and like any tool, they're meant to be used—but you're not going to be using them all the time.

Hey again 😊

Yeah, absolutely!!! If you've got an idea, you've already got a starting point and a goal to work towards 😉 The reason I wanted your thoughts was to see if you could find ways to improve it 😉 I'm sure you will, and I'd love that 😊 hehehe

As for it being basic, it wasn't just about how it works—which, as you said, isn't the most important thing as long as it gets the job done 😉—but rather that it's a pretty "primitive" version and probably needs a bit more development 😉

As soon as I get home, I'll grab the template and start putting together the "tutorial" on how to do it so I can upload it 😉

All the best!!!

I completely agree with your response, but the reason I'm asking is because I've reached a point where I want to experiment with new tricks, new ideas, and have more variety. I really love card magic, especially because being able to carry a deck in my pocket, pull it out, and do some magic is what I enjoy most.

@JaLag:

I'd be interested to hear about any "experiments" or "DIY projects" you've tackled to create new magic effects or even just to put your own spin on existing ones.

Hey everyone, I've personally built a zig-zag card; you know, the one where the card appears to be ripped through the middle, but then it's pulled out perfectly restored. I've also recreated a card-to-bill transformation similar to Cashflow.

I've got a bunch of ideas brewing, and here's one: a color change with some Smints, right in front of their eyes. What do you guys think of the idea, and how would you approach developing it?

I'd love for you all to share any simple yet impactful gimmicks you know that can be made on the spot to perform an effect right away.

@JaLag:

How would you make a DIY Invisible Deck? Any ideas?

I made one with double-sided tape, but you have to be careful not to lift the cards straight up so it doesn't make a ripping sound.

My first attempt at gaffing a deck was for an Invisible Deck. Literally, I grabbed the newest deck I had from the dollar store and started applying matte hair wax to the backs. They ended up way too sticky, and I had to use a cloth to wipe off the excess until they were usable. Still, I was able to perform the trick several times without any issues, and I still have it as a souvenir. Now I'm modifying a card with temperature-changing ink to play with lights and shadows, and I'm also working on a version of Thomas Badar's "Drop" effect. I'm not sure what the original is like, and I'm not going to reveal what I'm working on, but it's something very clever and easy that requires a tactile feel to perform the trick.