Discover the Art of Packet Tricks

Many enthusiasts mistakenly believe that packet tricks, which utilize a limited number of cards instead of a full deck, are a modern innovation in magic. While these tricks gained immense popularity in the 1960s and 70s—thanks in part to Jon Racherbaumer coining the term “packeteer” for magicians who excel in this area—effects involving a small selection of cards have roots dating back to the late 1800s. Despite some negative perceptions, well-crafted packet tricks can often deliver more astonishing results than those performed with a complete deck. Don’t underestimate the impact of a few cards! With the insights from the masters in this download, you’ll soon become a skilled “packeteer.”

In Volume 1, you’ll encounter a variety of magicians showcasing and explaining captivating small-packet card magic that any close-up performer would be eager to incorporate into their act. Larry Jennings kicks off with a stunning three-card illusion where one card appears to melt through the others. Martin Nash follows with a four-card routine that transforms two Queens and two Jacks into four Queens, then four Jacks, and ultimately four Aces! Michael Close presents a clever routine with four blue-backed Jokers that change to red-backed one by one, only to revert back to blue. Meanwhile, Michael Ammar performs a brilliant swindle involving three blank-faced cards and an Ace—at least, that’s how it seems. The legendary Alex Elmsley demonstrates a pivotal trick that helped define the modern packet trick era, while Bill Malone adds his unique twist to some Aces, transforming them into something entirely different. John Guastaferro merges two fantastic effects inspired by the Hofzinser Four-Ace Problem and Paul Harris’ Reset, and Darwin Ortiz concludes the volume with his rendition of Peter Kane’s classic Ace transposition trick.