How to Choose a Tarot Deck: A Guide for Finding Your Perfect Cards
There is a popular myth that you shouldn't get your own Tarot deck and that Tarot cards need to be gifted to you, but that's not true at all. Rather, Choosing a Tarot deck is a big first step in your Tarot journey and you should welcome it as the exciting process it is.
There are countless Tarot decks out there, all offering their own unique message and energy. Finding the right tarot deck is key; there should be balance and harmony between you and your deck. Having multiple decks is ideal, but if you're just entering the Tarot universe, it's best to find one solid deck that you can work with and develop your practice.
What Kind of Readings Will You Perform?
There are different Tarot decks that support various types of reading. Are you going to use tarot as a tool for all general questions, or are you more focused on love readings? It's important to understand the type of readings you intend to do, as this can help you pick your deck.
For example, there are many modern tarot decks that include romantic, heartfelt imagery that is perfect for love readings.
If you're more focused on providing career or money-based readings, you may want to find a gold foil deck.
Think about the type of readings you want to perform and what elements you'd want to see in your own deck. The right deck is out there for you as long as you have a clear image of what you're trying to achieve in your tarot practice.
Most people will use tarot as a general tool for all of life's questions. In this case, you might not want a niche deck and instead prefer a more general deck. The Rider Waite Smith deck is a general deck that most beginners will navigate towards.
But you don't have to choose this one for your first Tarot deck. Most tarot decks follow this Rider Waite deck, so no matter what you choose, it's most likely a great deck.
How Do You Learn?
Learning Tarot is a process. Learning your own Tarot cards takes practice, commitment, and an understanding of energy. When finding your own tarot deck, it's important to choose one that is easy to learn.
Traditional tarot decks, like the Rider Waite Smith, are best for beginners because most books and tarot resources reference these types of decks. New Tarot decks sometimes are very abstract, which is excellent for seasoned practitioners but may not be helpful for anyone just beginning their practice.
Generally, due to the complexity and intimacy of the art, the best ways to learn are to take an in-person class or do an online course.
How Does the Deck Make You Feel?
When performing Tarot readings, it's important to have a deck that makes you feel empowered and in tune with your intuitive connection. As you search through Tarot decks, pay attention to how they make you feel.
There are so many Tarot decks out there, and each of them will cause you to have a different reaction initially.
What thoughts do you have when observing a deck? What emotions does it make you feel?
When a deck feels "right," you'll know based on the state you're in when you're viewing or using it.
The perfect Tarot deck is out there, just as long as you're willing to search for it.
Do you see it as your own Tarot deck?
As with most things, the majority of items out there will not be "for" you. However, some will be in energetic alignment with you. It will be waiting patiently for you, as it is yours.
This is a feeling that is hard to describe but you just know it when it hits you. It will call out to you. You will have a thought in your head that rings, "Yes, this is for me!"
Above all else, you should trust this feeling when you're identifying a Tarot deck. Most Tarot decks capture similar symbolism, but it is this feeling that can help you separate the right Tarot deck from one that's not best for you.
We encourage you to consider a few things before you let the feeling alone dictate your choice. You may have an advanced Tarot deck that calls to you, but you aren't ready to use that one. No worries, it will continue to wait patiently for you if it is truly meant for you.
What you need to consider for when you choose a Tarot deck, especially if its your first Tarot deck, are things like the type of cards, how you are going to be using it, and how the imagery impacts you.
Card Types
Are you planning to use Tarot cards regularly? If so, you want to pay special attention to the type of cards each deck uses. Some cards are hard, thick, and not easily shuffled. Others are thin, flimsy, and may wear rather quickly.
Finding a solid median card type is essential for daily readers. There are also glossy or matte card types. Use your preference when selecting a tarot deck, look online at what the cards look and feel like, and use reader reviews to help you decide which is best for you.
Can You Read the Imagery?
Tarot card imagery can be minimal, abstract, and everything in between. It's important to review a deck's imagery before choosing it to make sure you are capable of reading the cards. Some images might not resonate with you, but while also may speak to your soul.
The imagery is just as important as the card definitions. Sometimes, you can use the imagery to draw out answers that aren't even associated with the card. This is how powerful tarot deck imagery is, and it should resonate with you.
Modern decks have fun, bright, and more relatable imagery, while traditional tarot decks tend to be more symbolic and have more intricate Tarot card meanings associated with them.
How Well do you Understand the original Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Card Imagery?
Do you know the RWS Tarot deck inside and out? If not, you should opt for a deck with similar or exact RWS imagery.
Until you reach a more advanced level of Tarot reading, you should gravitate to the imagery that captures the original Rider Waite Smith symbolism. Many more modern decks are fun and exciting, but they omit some of the symbolism of the cards.
Until you understand what all the Tarot cards mean and how they extend from the original imagery, you shouldn't go for different Tarot decks. Once you fully understand the concept and meanings of the original deck, then certainly feel free to branch out.
You can find decks that capture the emotions and concepts of the deck in clever and innovative ways, or a themed deck that connects with a personal interest of yours outside of Tarot reading.
Card Size
Tarot decks come in a variety of card sizes. There are pocket-sized tarot decks for travel and on-the-go. There are standard-sized decks that are great for personal readings.
There are a variety of different sizes for cards. Some readers like the small ones that they can easily shuffle, while others find the large cards to be better for readings as they can easily point out aspects of the imagery to the querent.
The decks that contain large, oversized cards are great for professional settings, making it easier for the reader and the client to see the imagery. If you're planning to offer tarot readings through video, larger decks make it easier for viewers to observe the cards.
Your Experience Level
Your experience level also determines which type of deck you should have. Don't choose a difficult tarot deck for your first deck. This is only going to confuse you and make learning tarot more difficult.
Don't be afraid to find a deck that's simple and easy to follow. Your first deck isn't meant to be challenging; it's meant to be a tool to develop your practice. Don't rush yourself throughout the process, and take your time.
If you are newer, we certainly recommend our very own Intuitive Souls deck. Otherwise, a generic Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck can serve you well.
Colored or Black and White?
There are many black and white tarot cards on the market that tarot readers enjoy! Research decks to see how a black and white card may appear in comparison to a colored card. Sometimes, color helps evoke certain thoughts and feelings associated with different cards.
This can be helpful, especially if you're first learning. But you may also prefer a black-and-white deck and which focuses more so on the imagery and symbols and may be easier for you to comprehend. Do what feels right; there's no right or wrong way to learn tarot.
Take Your Time
Don't be afraid to take your time when choosing a deck. Talk to friends or family members who use tarot and get their advice. See if you know anyone that has multiple decks for you to review before you make the plunge.
Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, it's time to find your first deck!