Chase Duncan's Nimbus
Why Most Cardistry Moves Feel Clunky
Most people try to learn flourishes by just forcing the cards to move. It feels jerky, packets slip out of your hands, and your fingers never seem long enough to reach the corners. If you've ever felt like you're fighting the deck rather than flowing with it, you're likely missing the specific grips that make high-level moves work.
The Addictive Flow of Nimbus
Nimbus is a move designed by Chase Duncan that focuses entirely on momentum and "hugging" packets. Instead of stiff movements, this flourish uses a deep Straddle Grip and clever finger positioning to let the cards spin around each other. Once you hit that first clean rotation where the packets glide past one another, you won't want to stop doing it.
It's a difficult move, but it's built on a foundation of one-handed cuts and wrist rotations. You'll learn how to use your pinky and thumb to keep total control of the deck while your other fingers drive the spinning motion. It's the kind of move that looks impossible to a spectator but feels like second nature once you build the muscle memory.
About Julio Ribera
Julio is a Spanish magician and cardist who has spent years breaking down complex moves for his audience of over 1.5 million followers. He doesn't just show you the move; he explains the frustrations he had while learning it himself. His teaching style is practical, focusing on the small finger adjustments that make the difference between dropping the deck and landing a perfect flourish.
What's Included
- The foundation of the Straddle Grip
- How to use your pinky to control the bottom packet
- The mechanics of the one-handed cut
- Techniques for the "hugging" packet rotation
- Tips for using trainers or "Cardistry Planks" to speed up practice
- How to close the move cleanly
Common Questions
Is this move too hard for beginners?
Yes, this is an advanced flourish. If you're just starting out, you might find it frustrating. Julio recommends using cardistry trainers or "planks" to get the finger movements down before trying it with a loose deck of cards.
Do I need big hands to do Nimbus?
While it helps, it's more about the grip than the size of your hand. Julio explains exactly where to place your thumb and pinky so you can stretch the packets even if you don't have long fingers.
Why should I learn this instead of a basic cut?
Nimbus has a unique "spin" and flow that most standard cuts lack. It’s a signature move that stands out because of how the packets interact and rotate simultaneously.