Chloe Zhang
When it comes to magic tricks, the choice between plastic and paper playing cards is largely a matter of personal preference. Plastic cards are durable, waterproof, and difficult to mark or cheat with, making them ideal for casinos and card games like Poker. However, they tend to stick together, which can hinder certain magic tricks and cardistry techniques. Paper cards, on the other hand, offer a smoother finish and allow for more intricate movements and flourishes. They are also cheaper and come in a wider range of designs, making them a popular choice for magicians. Ultimately, the best type of card for magic depends on the specific tricks being performed and the individual magician's preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Durability | Plastic cards are more durable than paper cards. |
| Ease of use for magic tricks | Paper cards are better for magic tricks as they flow better and are easier to spread out. |
| Texture | Paper cards have a nicer texture than plastic cards. |
| Design | Paper cards have cooler designs. |
| Cost | Paper cards are cheaper than plastic cards. |
| Cleaning | Plastic cards are washable, while paper cards can be cleaned with talcum powder or the crust of white bread. |
| Use case | Paper cards are better for cardistry and techniques such as flourishes and springs. |
| Stickiness | Plastic cards tend to stick together. |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic cards are durable and waterproof but can be hard to handle for magic tricks
- Paper cards are preferred by most magicians because they flow better
- Paper cards are also used for cardistry, which is a type of magic trick
- KEM cards are made of plastic and are considered terrible for magic tricks
- Bicycle cards are the most popular for magic tricks because they are cheap and made of paper
Plastic cards are durable and waterproof but can be hard to handle for magic tricks
Plastic playing cards are known for their durability and ability to withstand water damage. They are also difficult to mark, making them ideal for casinos or playing with friends who might try to cheat. However, their flat surface means they tend to stick together, which can make them harder to handle for magic tricks.
While plastic cards are durable, they are not as flexible as paper cards, which can make them harder to manipulate for magic tricks. Paper cards allow for more fluid movements and are preferred by most magicians unless the trick involves submerging the cards in water.
Additionally, paper cards offer more variety in terms of designs and textures, making them more appealing for magicians who want to showcase a unique deck during their performances. Paper cards are also generally cheaper, so magicians can afford to buy in bulk for practice and performances without breaking the bank.
Some magicians use plastic cards for specific tricks, such as those involving water or for practicing gambling sleights. However, for most magic tricks, paper cards are preferred due to their ease of handling and ability to create smooth, fluid movements.
In conclusion, while plastic cards offer durability and water resistance, they may not be the best choice for magicians due to their tendency to stick together and the difficulty in handling them for intricate magic tricks. Paper cards, with their flexibility, variety, and affordability, remain the preferred choice for most magicians and cardists.
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Paper cards are preferred by most magicians because they flow better
When it comes to magic tricks, paper cards are the preferred choice for most magicians. While plastic cards are durable, waterproof, and difficult to mark, they are not ideal for performing magic tricks as they tend to stick together. Paper cards, on the other hand, flow more smoothly and are easier to manipulate, making them perfect for card sleights, flourishes, and one-handed fans.
The Bicycle deck, made of paper, is the most popular choice for magicians due to its accessibility, affordability, and ease of use. Paper cards also come in various designs, adding a unique touch to performances. Magicians can even create custom paper cards, although these tend to be more expensive.
While plastic cards have their advantages, such as longevity and resistance to wear and tear, they are not ideal for magic tricks that require a smooth flow and precise handling. Paper cards, despite requiring more careful handling and maintenance, offer magicians the flexibility and control they need for intricate tricks and routines.
Additionally, paper cards can be cleaned and maintained to extend their lifespan. Some methods include using talcum powder or the crust of white bread to remove dirt and marks. Proper care can ensure that paper cards remain usable even after they have been soiled.
In conclusion, while plastic cards have their advantages in certain situations, paper cards are generally preferred by magicians due to their superior performance, feel, and versatility in magic tricks and cardistry.
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Paper cards are also used for cardistry, which is a type of magic trick
Paper cards are indeed used for cardistry, which is a type of magic trick. Cardistry is a performance art that involves spinning, tossing, cutting, and otherwise manipulating traditional playing cards to create a beautiful display. It is a combination of the words "card" and "artistry".
Cardistry is not a new concept, as it evolved from the flourishes that magicians have used for centuries to demonstrate their skills and entertain their audiences. However, it has evolved into a distinct art form that is no longer considered magic. Cardistry does not involve any magical manipulation or sleight of hand but is instead a display of sheer skill and manual dexterity.
Cardists perform a variety of moves, including one-handed cuts, complicated shuffles, turnovers, tosses, and catches. Some popular examples include Kevin Ho's "Flurf", Joey Burton's "Skater Cut", and Huron Low's "Firefly".
When it comes to choosing the right cards for cardistry, paper cards are generally preferred over plastic ones. Paper cards allow for more flow and movement than plastic cards, which tend to stick together. They are also cheaper and come in cooler designs, making them ideal for showing off and performing tricks.
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KEM cards are made of plastic and are considered terrible for magic tricks
While KEM cards are highly durable and suitable for card games, they are considered a poor choice for magic tricks. KEM cards are made of 100% plastic, which gives them their longevity—lasting up to 50 times longer than a paper deck. However, this same quality makes them less than ideal for magic.
Plastic cards, including KEM, are known to stick together, which can be problematic when doing magic tricks that require smooth, flowing movements. Paper cards are preferred by magicians for their flexibility and ability to move in ways that plastic cards cannot. For example, certain tricks may require a flourish, such as a one-handed fan or a simple card spread, which can be challenging with plastic cards that tend to clump.
Additionally, paper cards are often chosen for their unique designs and cooler-looking card backs, faces, and packaging. Magicians may also opt for paper cards to achieve a smoother finish, which can be important for certain magic effects. While plastic cards offer durability and resistance to bending and tearing, they lack the versatility and aesthetic appeal valued by magicians.
For magic tricks, it is recommended to use paper cards, specifically bicycle playing cards, which are widely used and recommended by magicians. Paper cards are also more affordable, allowing magicians to buy in bulk for practice without breaking the bank. While KEM cards are excellent for card games and longevity, they fall short in the world of magic due to their inherent stickiness and lack of fluidity in movement.
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Bicycle cards are the most popular for magic tricks because they are cheap and made of paper
Bicycle cards are the most popular deck of playing cards in the world. They are easily accessible, cheap, and perfect for performing magic tricks. Bicycle cards are made of paper, which gives them an advantage for use in magic tricks and performing card sleights. Paper allows the cards to flow in ways that plastic can't, and close to 100% of magicians will recommend a paper deck unless the tricks require the cards to be submerged in water.
While plastic cards are durable, waterproof, and difficult to mark or cheat with, they are not ideal for magic tricks. This is because their flat surface causes them to stick together, unlike paper cards, which have a dotted surface that holds air between them. Plastic cards are also harder to handle for card moves and tend to spread out less smoothly when doing a flourish, such as a one-handed fan.
Bicycle cards are a good option for those looking for a cheap, easily accessible deck for magic tricks. Paper cards, in general, are better for cardistry and techniques such as flourishes and springs, and they usually have cooler designs. They are also preferred for their texture and unique packaging.
However, paper cards are less durable than plastic cards and can be easily damaged by liquids or food. They are also more susceptible to bending, fraying, and peeling, especially with rough shuffling or frequent use. Despite this, paper cards can be cleaned and maintained if proper care is taken.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic cards are not ideal for magic tricks as they tend to stick together, unlike paper cards, which have a smooth finish. Paper cards are also better for cardistry or techniques such as flourishes and springs. However, plastic cards are durable, waterproof, and difficult to mark or cheat with, making them ideal for card games, especially Poker.
Bicycle Cards are the most popular deck of playing cards in the world. They are easily accessible, cheap, and perfect for performing magic tricks.
KEM cards are somewhat good for magic, but they are very hard to bend and handle for card moves.
Yes, the size of the deck is also important. Bigger decks are great for stage shows, while smaller decks are better for close-up card magic and all-purpose use.
