It’s somehow December already. The cold, the darkness, and nonstop Christmas music in every shop make that very clear. Which means we’re officially in the season of timeless debates: is *Fairytale of New York* a Christmas song, and is *Die Hard* a Christmas film? There may never be a definitive answer—but it certainly keeps the table talk lively.
Now, on to the magic.
EDC Dice V3 by Phil Smith (£47.99)
Phil Smith returns with the third version of EDC Dice, expanding on the already strong concepts from versions one and two. The effect is framed as an old fairground game: six cards represent everyday objects (keys, phone, wallet, ring, etc.), and participants may place the actual objects on the cards if they wish. Two dice are rolled to eliminate objects until only one remains—and that final choice matches a prediction that has been visible the entire time.
The props are excellent: tactile, well-sized dice with clear symbols, and beautifully printed cards with a quirky fairground aesthetic. The routine is easy to perform, largely self-working after a simple move done openly and naturally during misdirection. Using two dice speeds up the elimination process, keeping the pacing brisk and engaging.
The fairground presentation adds charm, storytelling, and humour, though it’s optional. The routine plays just as well stripped down. The final reveal feels genuinely impossible, and you can end completely clean. While the price is on the high side—likely due to the custom dice—the effect is strong, flexible, and highly entertaining.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/edc-dice-v3-by-phill-smith
Pro 4 Wallet by Gary James and Pro Magic (£52.99)
The Pro 4 Wallet is an underrated utility wallet offering four clear, distinct outs—making it extremely versatile for predictions, mentalism, and card routines. Gary James teaches several routines, including a card prediction, a colourful travel-themed mentalism piece, a strong Bank Night routine, and a take on *On the Mark*.
The real strength here is the handling. Gary includes clever subtleties, including a brilliant invisible turnover move credited to Francis Carlyle, and practical tips that elevate the wallet far beyond a simple prop. The leather is well made, all compartments look identical, and additional envelopes or cards can expand the outs even further.
This is a serious worker’s wallet—especially valuable for mentalists—and a powerful utility item to build routines around.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/pro-4-wallet-by-gary-james
Audience Question: Performing for Grabby Friends
When friends grab props or try to spoil tricks, you have two choices: adapt the material or manage the audience.
You *can* choose examinable or self-working tricks, but that risks compromising what you actually want to perform. A better approach is audience management: don’t select disruptive participants, perform out of reach, avoid encouraging unnecessary examination, and set boundaries—sometimes directly. A polite, honest conversation often solves the problem better than any sleight of hand.
Lava Pad by French Twins (£214.99)
Lava Pad is a high-tech notepad that allows you to write guesses, show them openly, and then have everything vanish except the spectator’s thought-of card (or item). The pad looks completely normal, the effect happens in plain sight, and the moment of disappearance is striking.
Build quality is excellent, the charge lasts well, and refills are included. While the pen could be better and the tutorial feels rushed for the price, the core method is brilliant. This tool shines when used creatively—shopping lists, numbers, drawings—not just card reveals. Framed well, it feels like mind-reading rather than a gimmick.
Expensive, but durable, powerful, and endlessly versatile if you put the thought in.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/lava-pad-by-les-french-twins-and-david-sy
Cup & Dice by Ethan Yap (£47.99)
A modern chop cup routine using a dice cup and dice. The routine is classic in structure, with strong phases culminating in oversized dice final loads that are solid, tactile, and visually impressive.
The cup itself is well gimmicked, the dice are perfectly weighted, and everything works smoothly. The routine is straightforward but strong, with much of the magic happening in the spectator’s hands. The tutorial is clear, well-shot, and packed with practical performance tips.
While seasoned chop cup performers may customise the routine, this is a solid, professional set with excellent props and teaching.
https://monstermagic.co.uk/products/cup-dice-by-ethan-yip-magic-express
That’s it for this week. Whether you’re dodging Christmas shopping or leaning into the festive chaos, get out there, perform some magic, and enjoy the best hobby in the world.