How To Choose A Tarot Deck That’s Right For You

Looking for a tarot deck? Perhaps you’re just starting out with tarot reading and need a deck to kick off your journey. Or perhaps your old deck might be beginning to wear out and you’re in search of a fresh one to replace it. Whatever your reason, you’re probably asking yourself, “What deck of tarot cards should I get?!” There are countless options to choose from, so here’s some guidance on how to choose the right tarot deck for you.

What is tarot?
Tarot cards are used to divine the future or to give someone insight into their current circumstances, ranging from love and career to relationships and finances. A specific set of cards, consisting of the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana, are drawn based on your intentions or what you’re seeking guidance on. This can be done either by a tarot card professional or by yourself (since the cards can be open to interpretation). The way the cards are drawn and how they’re laid out (in what’s known as a spread) all have specific meanings.

What kinds of tarot decks are there?
When thinking about how to choose a tarot deck, it’s important to remember that there are a vast number of decks to select from. There are more traditional options, such as the original Rider-Waite deck, or unique ones that can be themed with a huge variety of different characters (everything from The Simpsons to Star Wars!). You get to decide which deck speaks to you and your interests.

What is the best way to choose a tarot deck?
Because tarot can be such a personal thing, there’s no one right or wrong way to select a deck of cards. But there are some steps you can take to help you along in the process. Here are some ideas for how to pick the right tarot deck…

1. Listen to your intuition.
The most important thing you can do when selecting a deck is to listen to what your gut is telling you. Your intuition is a powerful thing, and it can guide you to choose a deck that will provide you with the most healing and growth. It doesn’t matter why you feel drawn to any one deck. It could be that you like the artwork, or the feel of the cards in your hands, or the colors – just listen to your intuition.

2. View the imagery.

Take some time out to really observe the images in the deck you’re interested in. You can do this by checking out images online if you’re purchasing that way, or flipping through them in person. By examining the cards and seeing what response you have to the images, you can tell whether you’re drawn to that particular deck or not. If the images strike any kind of negative emotion with you (or even no emotion at all), that deck is simply not the right fit.

3. Decide what type you want (traditional vs. modern).
Because there are so many options, another way to narrow down what deck is right for you is to decide whether you’re more of a traditionalist or if you want something a touch more modern. Traditional decks (such as the Rider-Waite deck or the Visconti deck) have a more historic vibe and are perfect for people who like the classics. Other folks will fall in love with modern decks, often those that have more astrology or Kabbalah influences. Many modern decks also deal with fantastical themes, such as mystical or fairy imagery. Determining whether you’re more traditional or modern can be a great way to discern the kinds of decks to select from.

4. Consider your experience level.
Another important aspect when it comes to knowing how to pick a tarot deck is thinking about what your actual experience level is. If you’re just starting out with tarot, you might be better served by a traditional deck that has more straightforward interpretations of the cards. More well-known decks (like the Rider-Waite) have a ton of information online too, so you can always look up anything you want more details about. If you have more experience under your belt, you don’t have limitations in this way and can choose whatever deck feels right.

5. Do some research on a particular deck.
Many decks come with a book that helps explain the meanings of the cards. Check out whether the deck you’re interested in comes with this type of helpful info. If the deck you’ve picked up doesn’t have any accompanying info, that could be a dealbreaker for some people. Make sure you understand exactly what comes with your deck before you purchase online (or in a store).

6. Determine the size that works best for you.
The size of the deck and the individual cards can also be an important factor. Tarot cards come in a variety of sizes. You might like the giant cards because they’re easier to see in detail, or maybe the mini ones are ideal because you can take them with you when you’re on the go. For some people, the standard card size is the right fit to be hand-held. If you’re shopping in a store, test out a few cards in your hands to see what feels like a good fit.

7. Come up with an intention for your readings.
It can be useful to think through what you’re going to be using your cards for. If you have a specific intention for the kind of energy you’re trying to invite into your life, that can help inform the type of cards you want to be using. For example, let’s say you want to attract love into your life. You might want to select a deck that has a romantic or lighthearted vibe versus a darker, mystical tone. Or let’s say you’re trying to connect more with your inner power – perhaps a Goddess deck would be the right avenue to go down.

8. Check for quality or read reviews.
Some cards feel cheap in your hands or are simply not well-made – they might fade or tear over time. If you’re shopping in person, explore how the individual cards feel in your hands. If you’re shopping online, read reviews to see what other people have reported. If the cards are flimsy or won’t last, consider investing in a higher-quality deck (it’ll be worth the touch of extra cash).

Where can you buy tarot cards?
Luckily, because tarot is so popular, decks are super easy to find. You can do a quick Google search to unearth any metaphysical stores near you (think: anywhere that sells crystals). Most bookstores (especially chain ones) also sell tarot decks. If you can’t locate any stores near you that offer them, you can head online. There are tons of stores that will ship tarot cards to you, including Amazon!

Please note: there is a myth that tarot decks should only be gifted and not bought. While there are some tarot readers who believe this, most actually believe it’s perfectly fine for you to purchase your own tarot deck. Just make sure to charge it with your own energy before you do your first reading.

If you have additional questions about how to pick a tarot card deck for yourself, or if you’d like to have a tarot reading done, connect with a tarot card reader today!

Featured image by Viva Luna Studios on Unsplash