Spreading the Cards / Fanning the Deck

One of the requirements of a dealer when he initially pushes into a table is to verify the deck of cards. There are two possible situations you will face. The first is that the cards are already in play. In this case, you will continue with your first shuffle as described below. The second, is that you are beginning with a new setup or unused deck. The way to easily determine this is to look at the first card at the bottom of the deck. In a new deck it will be the Ace of Spades. If this happens you will need to visually verify that all of the cards are present and that there are no noticeable defects in the cards, also known as Fanning the Deck

This process works like this:

Placing the deck face up on the table, using your right hand placing your thumb at the bottom and your middle and ring fingers at the top, press down with your right index finger on the left side of the deck. Using a sweeping motion from left to right, drag the cards in a semi circle in front of you. Then, visually verify that each card is present by rank and suit. After this has been done, return the cards to their original face down position on top of the table directly in front of the rack.

Washing the Cards

This is done by placing the deck, face down, in a pile in front of you. Using both hands, mix the cards in a circular motion thereby washing/scrambling the cards.

Classroom Video