Cardtoon
The Animated Reveal
You ask someone to name any card in the deck. There are no forces—they can truly pick whatever they want. You show them a little stick-figure magician named "Julito" drawn on the back of the cards. As you riffle through the deck like a flipbook, the drawing comes to life. The little magician takes off his hat, reaches inside, and pulls out one card. When the animation stops, the card in the drawing is exactly the one your spectator named.
How the Cardtoon Deck Works
This effect uses a specially printed deck where the animation is built into the back of the cards. The secret lies in how the cards are organized and the way they are mirrored. Because the deck does most of the heavy lifting, you don't need to worry about difficult sleight of hand. You just need to know how to navigate the deck to find the right starting point for the animation.
What You'll Learn
Julio Ribera breaks down the handling of this classic gaffed deck. You'll learn how to show the cards "cleanly" at the start so the audience doesn't suspect anything is different about them. He shows you the specific way to handle the cards when the spectator names their choice, including a simple "two cards as one" move that sets up the reveal.
You will also learn the best way to riffle the cards to make the animation look smooth. If you flip too fast or too slow, the "movie" on the back won't look right. Julio covers the timing and the grip you need to make sure Julito's magic trick looks perfect every time.
About the Instructor
Julio Ribera is a Spanish magician known for his visual, direct style. He specializes in magic that works in the real world, whether on the street or in a casual close-up setting. He focuses on teaching the "how" and "why" behind an effect so you can perform it with confidence.
What's Included
- How to handle the Cardtoon gaffed deck
- The "two cards as one" turnover technique
- Proper riffle timing for the flipbook animation
- Tips for performing the routine for strangers
- How to reset the deck instantly
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special deck?
Yes, this routine requires the Cardtoon deck. The animation is printed specifically on the backs of these cards.
How hard is the handling?
It is very easy. If you can flip through a deck of cards with your thumb, you can do this trick. There is one simple move where you hold two cards together, but Julio explains it clearly.
Can I let the spectator name any card?
Yes. Any of the 52 cards can be named, and the animation will reveal the correct one.
Can I do this surrounded?
Yes. Since the animation is on the back of the cards and you are facing the spectator, the angles are very safe. Just make sure the people behind you can see the back of the deck to enjoy the show.