While perusing Tarbell a few weeks ago, I stumbled across a card effect that required making your own gimmick. Seeing some possibility in this effect, I made a gimmick and began to play with the presentation. I developed two completely different handlings...one that kids LOVE and one that is a bit more "magical" that I do for adults. Both include a much more streamlined approach and original patter. What would be the ethical implications of releasing this effect with the gimmick and the two "new" handlings and crediting my inspiration?

It's been done before, so I would say no ethical problems.

I see no problems, If you work out new handling and patter for an effect its yours then to do what you want with.

Scott

Only thing that could be a problem is if somebody else released it first...?

It was. It was in Tarbell.

This does happen quite a bit. But I think it would be polite to let people know in the product description before they buy it, where it came from. May also be polite to contact D. Robbins who owns the publishing rights to Tarbell if they would mind.

Sincerely,
Wayne Stevenson
The SpookClub
http://www.spookclub.com

Touch base with Bill Palmer, a Café member, and see what his take might be.

Mark.

Hey Wayne, thanks for the advice...I'm not seriously considering releasing anything in the near future, I was just curious as to the ethical implications. I would like to work this to death before I pass it on.
And Mark, you are correct, It's always wise to defer to Mr. Palmer!