Four Blank Card Routine

What This Skill Does For You

This routine turns four simple cards into a baffling demonstration of impossible movements. By mastering this sequence, you gain a solid, repeatable effect that fits in your pocket and is ready to perform at a moment’s notice. It teaches you to control the spectator's focus and keeps them guessing until you reveal the kicker at the end.

How It’s Taught

Julio breaks the performance down into manageable steps, focusing on the Elmsley Count as the engine of the trick. You’ll learn how to arrange your packet, the importance of the initial setup, and the exact count mechanics needed to keep the "different" card hidden or visible exactly when you want it. The instruction walks you through each phase of the routine so you don't get lost in the handling.

What Level Is This For

This is an intermediate routine. You should be comfortable with basic card handling and have some experience with counts. If you’ve never performed an Elmsley Count, you’ll need to spend some focused time practicing that move alone before you try to combine it with the story and the flips in this routine.

About the Instructor

Julio Ribera is a seasoned expert in close-up magic who has spent years teaching the essentials of card work online. He emphasizes learning by doing and provides clear, practical breakdowns that strip away the fluff so you can perform with confidence.

What’s Included

• Setting up your packet: Using three blank cards and one Joker
• The Elmsley Count: The secret behind showing four cards as if they are all the same
• Managing the packet: How to keep your special card hidden during counts
• Timing your reveals: When to show the card face-up and when to hide it
• The final kicker: How to reveal the card has a different back to end clean

Frequently Asked Questions

How long until I can perform this?
If you already know the Elmsley Count, you can pick this up in one practice session. If you are new to the count, expect a few days of repetitive practice to get the handling smooth enough to perform for friends.

Does it matter what kind of cards I use?
Not at all. While blank cards look great, you can use any three cards with matching backs and one unique card (like a Joker or a contrasting color) to achieve the same result.

Can I learn this without a teacher watching?
Yes. The video tutorials are detailed enough to show you the angles you need to cover. Just practice in front of a mirror to make sure your count looks natural from the spectator's view.