This is an apparatus effect of a mental nature using colorful props. It is simple and surefire in working, requiring no sleights, forces, or multiple outs.
The original idea for the effect is credited to Arthur Carter. Subsequently the effect was marketed in a stage size using colored spots on the cards, by the Supreme Magic Co. of England, as "Color in Mind". I bought one of the first sets, and it has been one of my favorites over 25 years. It occupies no space in your suitcase, no set-up, and never fails to make an impact on the audience with even mediocre presentation.
The "Color In Mind" effect had a few limitations, - you had to hide the card backs, and I had been planning to make myself a set that would overcome this factor. And so we have "Design In Mind."
The performer displays five giant cards with ESP designs in a small case. The case is less than half the height of the cards, making it impossible for any extra cards to be concealed. The five cards with ESP designs are shown clearly front and back - they are just five large ESP cards. The case is turned over to reveal a prediction printed on the back. It reads "You Will Select The------." The dash is obviously a word, which the performer has covered up with his hand for the time being, "so as not the influence the audience in any way." The cards are fanned faces towards audience, and a volunteer asked to mentally think of any design. There is no force, - you can let them change their minds if they wish. Nothing is communicated to the magician or any one else. The selection being just the spectator's secret.
The five cards are now placed in the case, with a good part of the symbol visible over the top. The performer says he will remove the cards one at a time from the front, and place them at the back in the case. When the design the spectator selected is in the performer's hand, he is to call out "stop."
The performer now proceeds to pull out the cards one at a time from the front, holding them up high for an instant, then replacing them in the case at the back. Spectator calls "stop" when his selected card is in performer's hand. We will presume it is the Wave design that is in the performer's hand. The performer dramatically turns the case around, this time revealing the complete prediction. It says, "You Will Select the Waves".
Remember there are no forces, - the spectator may select any design. And unlike the original version the cards are handled in a most convincing manner, with each card being displayed front and back.
