I previously purchased Chris' "The Whole Thing" through Theory 11 and thought it was great. That was a 5 star trick. I bought "Holed Up" through Penguin to see if there was anything new and unreleased previously. Unfortunately I didn't see anything that improved his previously released material and even think the tricks that are featured are not as good as they were through previously releases of the effect. For the price, I don't think it is a bad deal at all as it is only $7.95. I personally think it is a better option to spend around $20 through Theory11 and get a much better presentation of these effects which includes better routines. If I had not seen the previous stuff through T11 I might have liked "Holed Up" from Penguin better.

Holed Up is a terrific trick, it's that simple. You can even prepare the gaffs in front of the spectator so the effect is (almost) impromptu. Some basic sleight of hand is required but it's within just about everyone's reach. What you see in the demo is what you get. Chris' teaching is clear and straightforward. At the conclusion of the main effect you are somewhat dirty but he teaches 3 excellent methods of cleaning up- you should be able to find one that fits your style. The bonus effects are good and well-taught. He teaches 3 other effects- my favorite of these was the Mystery Card. The moment of magic is truly eye-popping both for your spectators and even yourself. All in all, this is well worth the low price he is asking.

After making a rather disappointing purchase a couple of weeks ago, this was a welcome relief. I like the way Chris thinks and then puts it together in a very tight, well taught trick...yes, I would call this a worker!...pick this one up...you'll use this....a lot of great applications for this one...enjoy! Oh yeah, the price is a steal!

Thank you for sharing these routines and gimmick ideas Chris. Your training was easy to follow and very entertaining. The only reason I've not given 5 stars is because I had to construct the gimmick myself. A small issue. Ultimately I'm now able to make the improbable possible for audience members due to your training.

This is exactly the type of routine I like to use in my restaurant work.
Very visual , fits in your card box and it has that WOW factor. Great handling tips for sleights that are used in other card work. Great value for sure.

There's a ton of card magic floating around but it's rare to find something as super visual as Holed Up. The moment the selection materializes looks like pure magic! That moment fries people's brains and prevents them from even attempting to backtrack or reconstruct the effect. If you want your audience to experience the impact of magic instead of a puzzle, click the buy button.

Simple and a great close up effect.

I loved it. Chris is a great teacher with lots of knowledge and ideas. This is a super clever trick with lots of applications, and it looks like real magic. Lots of great sleights taught with nice touches as well.

I'm not heavy into card magic, as Chris Mayhew obviously is, but I appreciate the research and the multitudinous citations that went into this. I had recently purchased "Solo" by Mark Mason mainly for the delightful card vanish between two Kings with holes drilled out in the centers. Now I realize that Chris Mayhews instructions make it possible to perform almost the exact same trick as "Solo" and even tear out the holes in two cards (I prefer Jokers to Kings anyway) at the start. Better yet, I can combine the two if I play my cards right!

A simple clear effect by a funny & great guy.

Easy to get in and out of & very visual.

Never fails to get great reactions.