XQ Forty-Nine Cardistry Playing Cards by Magic Encarta

Infinite Creativity. Endless Possibilities.

What if every fan, spread, ribbon display and flourish you performed looked completely different every single time?

Introducing the XQ Forty-Nine Cardistry Playing Cards, one of the most visually innovative and ambitious cardistry decks ever created. Developed over nearly two years, this unique deck reimagines what is possible with a deck of playing cards by transforming every shuffle into a fresh display of colour and creativity.

Created by Magic Encarta in collaboration with award-winning digital artist Thorsten Schmitt, the XQ Forty-Nine is more than just a deck — it's a celebration of cardistry, design, mathematics and artistic expression.

Browse more Magic Encarta originals in our Magic Encarta Exclusive Playing Cards collection or explore all Cardistry Playing Cards.

Every Shuffle Creates Something New

Unlike traditional playing cards, the XQ Forty-Nine features a carefully engineered colour system that creates an extraordinary number of visual arrangements. With over 7 undecillion possible colour combinations, every fan, spread, ribbon display, packet cut, and flourish becomes unique. No two performances ever need to look the same again.

Designed for Cardistry

• Fans & Giant Fans
• Ribbon Spreads
• Dribbles & Springs
• Packet Cuts, Sybil Cuts & One-Handed Cuts
• Displays, Flourishes & Creative Cardistry Routines

Premium USPCC Quality

• Premium Crushed Stock with Air Cushion Finish
• Standard Poker Size
• Printed by USPCC, Made in the USA
• Limited Print Run of Only 1,800 Decks

Exclusive Bonus Cards

Phenakistoscope Card

Uses the scientific principle of persistence of vision to create the illusion of motion. Perform a smooth spinning flourish, record at approximately 30 FPS, and watch the artwork spring to life.

Autostereogram Cards

Two specially designed cards that reveal hidden three-dimensional images when viewed using a relaxed focus technique.

What's Included

• 49 XQ Forty-Nine Cardistry Cards
• 2 Autostereogram Cards
• 1 Phenakistoscope Card
• 1 Artwork Card
• 1 Magic Encarta XQ49 Logo Card
• 1 Possibilities Count Card
• 1 Theme Information Card

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the XQ Forty-Nine designed for cardistry?

Yes. Every aspect of the deck has been created to maximise the visual impact of fans, spreads, packet cuts and flourishes.

Can I perform magic with this deck?

Yes. Although designed primarily for cardistry, the XQ Forty-Nine can also be used for magic performances where bold, colourful visuals enhance the presentation.

What makes this deck different from other cardistry decks?

The XQ Forty-Nine uses a unique colour distribution system that creates over 7 undecillion possible visual arrangements, ensuring every flourish feels fresh and original.

What is the Phenakistoscope card?

A specially designed animation card that appears to move when spun and viewed through a camera recording at approximately 30 FPS.

What are the Autostereogram cards?

Hidden 3D illusion cards that reveal three-dimensional images when viewed using a relaxed focus technique.

Is this a limited edition deck?

Yes. Only 1,800 decks were produced worldwide, making it a highly collectible release for cardists and playing card enthusiasts.