Chase Duncan's Bowtie

Mastering the Bowtie Flourish

Most cardists get stuck doing basic Z-cuts that don't have much life to them. You might find your hands feel stiff or your packets look like they're just sitting there. It's hard to find that "flow" that makes cardistry look like a single, liquid motion.

A More Dynamic Way to Move Cards

Bowtie changes that by keeping everything in motion. You'll learn how to spin one packet while simultaneously pivoting others on your pinky and thumb. Julio shows you how to pull packets with your thumb and pass them to your index finger without dropping everything.

This move is all about the "wild" spinning visual. Instead of just moving a packet from one spot to another, you're rotating it while other parts of the deck pivot around your fingers. By the end, you'll have a flourish where the deck looks like it's spinning in every direction at once. If you've ever wanted a move that looks like the cards are defying gravity, this is it.

About Julio Ribera

Julio Ribera is a veteran digital creator and magician who focuses on practical, visual magic. He believes in "learning by doing," which is why he breaks down complex cardistry into specific finger mechanics rather than just showing the move at full speed.

What You'll Learn

• How to set up the Double Z-cut foundation
• The middle and ring finger spinning technique for the main packet
• Corner pivots using your pinky and thumb
• How to pull packets with your thumb and transfer them to your index finger
• Tips for keeping small packets squared during high-speed rotations
• Why practicing with cardistry trainers or "planks" can help you learn faster

Common Questions

Is this too hard for beginners?
This is an advanced move. If you're just starting out, it might feel overwhelming. Julio recommends practicing with cardistry trainers or "planks" first because they are easier to keep squared than a loose deck of cards.

Why do my packets keep falling apart?
It usually comes down to finger tension and placement. Julio explains exactly where your fingers need to be—like the middle and ring finger for the spin—to keep the cards from flying everywhere.

Do I need a specific type of deck?
Any standard deck of cards works, but a newer, "slippery" deck might actually be harder to control at first. Using a broken-in deck or trainers will give you more grip while you're learning the mechanics.