Pro Tip #6: Notepad
Notepad (available as part of Magic Stage and Magic Stage Lite) is one of my favourite pieces of magic to perform. Unfortunately when asked in impromptu situations to perform, I often don't have the required cards to hand.
Recently I've had great success performing a 'cards-free' version of the illusion. Here's how:
1) Start notepad and leave it in your presentation space with the brown cover showing.
2) Mime shuffling a pack of cards while saying "I want you to imagine I have the four aces: the Ace of Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts and Spades".
3) Next say "please shuffle the four cards" while handing the spectator the invisible Aces. Almost always the spectator will continue your shuffling mime.
4) Ask the spectator to look at the Aces and name one of them.
5) Once named, ask them if they are sure about their choice. Offer them a chance to change their mind.
Once they are confident in their choice proceed with the trick as normal.
This is a great impromptu presentation for notepad. Enjoy.
Matt