talkmagic.co.uk

First of all, hello. I'm getting back into magic after a long break and pretty much just spending lots of time playing with cards and practicing sleights.

One thing I've always had trouble with is getting a consistent second deal. It works well around 90% of the time and even when people are staring at the desk they can't see what's going on - that's when I get it right - so I know it's not that far off. Around 10% of the time I either manage to slide three cards across (therefore grabbing two rather than one when I go for the deal) or don't manage to grab the card at all (because it hasn't been pushed out far enough and it returns with the top card). When I've dealt 10 or so card and the desk is a bit lighter then I find my second deal is very consistent and there are very few mistakes. This leads me to feel it's got something to do with my grip on the desk. If anyone can give any advice I'd be very grateful.

Wow....I stand in awe of your magical abilities.

I couldn't do a second deal if you paid me a million dollars .

Kati

Try being "lighter" with the deck. The pressure needed to do a good second deal is quite slight. The thumb should hardly be pressing in the appropriate place; just enough to deal the right card. Less pressure will stop you from dealing more than one card but from that point on it is purely down to feel. I know it sounds trite but practise practise practise and you will get the knack for it. Good luck.

Heeheheheheh... perhaps your problem is that you should let go of the DESK and try holding the cards instead?

Seriously though, GoldFish is absolutely right. The key is a relaxed grip.

Also, to maintain a rhythm is key too.

Think about what I call the 'Un-Sleight'... your goal is to deal the cards to appear as a normal deal. So, watch and study your normal deal... you will find that it's quite paced and relaxed.

Aim to apply the same degree of casual, relaxed timing to the actual second deal. There's no rush. Be gentle with the cards and remember, the art of most sleights is practice.

Also, for practicing this type of move, a nice new deck of cards is a must. As cards wear their coating down and absorb grease and moisture from your hands, they gain friction, which is possibly why you are getting doubles.

Then as with most tricks you want to hold them firmly not tightly you need to feel as there not there but not going to fall out your hands.