How to Do a False Cut (Easy Tutorial)

The false cut is used a lot in card magic. I mean a LOT. It’s a way to cut the deck multiple times in your hand, making it look like you are shuffling, but keeping the exact same order they were in before the move. For beginners, the false cut is probably going to be your first venture into card flourishes.

Everyone will have their own way of doing the false cut. There are many variations of the move. Magicians with more skill and experience in handling cards will incorporate fancier sleight of hand.

Why does it need to be fancy?

Basically, it needs to look like we are really shuffling the deck. By incorporating more cuts and flourishes, it gives the appearance that more shuffles are being made.

We’re going to learn a very easy false cut today. It’s perfect for beginners. It looks extremely difficult at first glance, but you’ll be able to master it with just a little practice.

Is that one too difficult?

If you want to learn the false cut, but don’t want to commit too much time practicing the one above, then here is the easiest false cut ever. It’s very easy to learn and won’t take too long to master it. On the downside, it is not fancy at all and some people may catch that you didn’t shuffle the deck.

The false cut is very fun to do once you get the hang of it. I’ve seen beginner card magicians practice the false cut, then become obsessed with card flourishes.