Written by The moment I first held a tarot deck in my hands, I felt a connection that transcended the mere physical cards. There was something magical about the weight of them, the whisper of card against card as I shuffled, and the stories that unfolded with each spread. Whether you’re just beginning your journey with tarot or looking to expand your collection, choosing the right deck is both a deeply personal and practical decision. In this guide, we’ll explore the rich history of tarot, how to select decks that resonate with your spirit, and which types of decks serve different magical purposes.
The Rich History of Tarot
Contrary to what many believe, tarot cards weren’t originally created for divination or spiritual practice. The earliest known tarot decks appeared in 15th century Italy as elaborate playing cards called tarocchi, used by the nobility for games similar to modern bridge. These early decks featured the familiar structure we recognize today—major arcana (trump cards) and minor arcana (suited cards)—but their purpose was entertainment, not enlightenment.
It wasn’t until the late 18th century that tarot began its transformation into a divination tool. French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette (known as “Etteilla”) created the first deck specifically designed for divination around 1789, connecting the cards to Egyptian mysticism and astrology. This marked the beginning of tarot’s association with esoteric knowledge.
The watershed moment in tarot history came in 1909 with the publication of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, created by A.E. Waite and artist Pamela Colman Smith. This revolutionary deck featured fully illustrated scenes on every card—not just the major arcana—making the deck’s symbolism more accessible and intuitive. The Rider-Waite-Smith deck remains the foundation for most modern tarot decks and is still considered the standard for beginners.
In recent decades, we’ve witnessed an explosion of diverse decks reflecting various cultures, artistic styles, and spiritual traditions. From minimalist designs to lush fantasy illustrations, today’s seeker can find decks that honor different mythologies, celebrate marginalized voices, or explore specific magical traditions—there truly is a deck for every soul.
Visual Considerations
The artwork is your gateway to interpretation. Some questions to ask yourself:
~ Does the imagery speak to you on a soul level?
~ Can you easily read the symbolism, or does it feel confusing?
~ Do the illustrations evoke an emotional response?
~ Does the deck represent diverse bodies, cultures, and perspectives (if this matters to you)?
The Rider-Waite-Smith deck features classic, straightforward symbolism, while decks like The Wild Unknown use stunning, minimalist animal imagery. The Fountain Tarot offers modern, abstract visuals, and The Light Seer’s Tarot presents a bohemian, light-filled aesthetic. Choose artwork that resonates with your personal style and spiritual sensibilities.
Physical Aspects
The tactile experience of reading tarot is important:
~ Card size: Standard cards are easy to shuffle, while larger cards showcase more detailed artwork but may be difficult for small hands
~ Card stock: Thicker cards last longer but can be harder to shuffle
~ Finish: Matte finishes allow for smoother shuffling, while glossy finishes enhance colors but may stick together
~ Edges: Gilded edges are beautiful but can chip; plain edges are more durable
I once purchased a gorgeous deck with oversized cards, only to find them impossible to shuffle comfortably. Now I always consider the physical experience as much as the visual appeal.
Guidebook Quality
For beginners especially, a comprehensive guidebook is invaluable:
~ Look for decks with detailed card meanings for both upright and reversed positions
~ Books that include spread suggestions help you put the cards into practice
~ Personal insights from the creator add depth to your understanding
~ Card-specific rituals or affirmations can enhance your practice
The best guidebooks don’t just tell you what the cards mean—they teach you how to develop your own intuitive relationship with the deck.
Budget Considerations
Tarot decks range widely in price:
~ Mass-market decks ($15-25): Affordable starting points with decent quality
~ Independent artist decks ($30-50): Unique artwork with potentially limited print runs
~ Luxury decks ($50+): Premium card stock, special finishes, extensive guidebooks
While it’s tempting to start with the least expensive option, consider that a deck you truly connect with will serve you for years. It’s an investment in your spiritual practice.
Different Types of Tarot Decks and Their Purposes
Not all decks serve the same purpose. Here’s how to match different types of decks to your magical intentions:
Traditional Rider-Waite-Smith and Derivatives
Best for: Learning the foundational meanings, general readings, teaching others
Example decks: The Original Rider Waite, The Radiant Rider-Waite, The Modern Witch Tarot
The Rider-Waite-Smith system is the standard from which most contemporary decks derive their symbolism. If you’re new to tarot, starting with this system will make it easier to learn other decks later.
These decks typically feature straightforward symbolism with clear visual cues to card meanings.
Oracle Decks vs. Traditional Tarot
Best for: Intuitive readings, beginning readers who find traditional tarot intimidating, supplementing tarot readings
Example decks: The Starseed Oracle, Moonology Oracle Cards
While not technically tarot, oracle decks offer more flexibility with fewer structural rules. They typically have direct messages and simpler interpretations. Many practitioners use both tarot and oracle cards—starting or ending a tarot reading with an oracle card for additional clarity or confirmation.
Shadow Work Decks
Best for: Psychological exploration, inner child healing, trauma work
Example decks: The Light and Shadow Tarot, The Darkness of Light Tarot
With imagery that doesn’t shy away from difficult emotions, shadow work decks help us explore our unconscious patterns and hidden aspects. These decks often feature more challenging imagery and can be powerful tools for psychological healing when used mindfully.
Thoth Deck and Esoteric Systems
Best for: Advanced magical work, astrological connections, Kabbalistic study
Example decks: Thoth Tarot (created by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris), Book of Thoth
The Thoth system incorporates complex esoteric symbolism, including astrology, Kabbalah, and numerology.
These decks are generally better suited for readers who already have a foundation in tarot and are ready to explore deeper magical correspondences.
Theme-Based Decks
Best for: Connecting with specific energies, deities, or cultural traditions
Example decks: The Norse Tarot, Ancestral Path Tarot, Animal Spirit Tarot
These decks align with particular spiritual paths, mythologies, or totem energies. Choose a themed deck when working with specific pantheons or when you want to deepen your connection to certain cultural or spiritual traditions.
Seasonal Decks
Best for: Aligning readings with nature’s cycles, sabbat celebrations, seasonal transitions
Example decks: The Wildwood Tarot, The Wheel of the Year Tarot
Seasonal decks connect tarot symbolism to the natural world and cyclical changes. They’re particularly powerful for readings during sabbats, solstices, equinoxes, or when seeking guidance during life transitions.
Matching Decks to Different Types of Readings
The purpose of your reading should influence your deck choice:
Daily Draws and Quick Guidance
For daily card pulls or simple questions, consider:
~ Smaller decks that fit in your purse or pocket
~ Cards with clear, direct symbolism that can be quickly interpreted
~ Decks with keywords printed on the cards for immediate insight
My personal favorite for morning guidance is the Smith-Waite Centennial Tarot in a tin—compact enough to keep on my nightstand yet rich with familiar symbolism that speaks to me instantly upon waking.
Deep Shadow Work
When diving into psychological exploration:
~ Choose decks with complex, emotionally evocative imagery
~ Look for cards that don’t shy away from difficult themes
~ Consider decks specifically designed for inner work
The Mary-El Tarot, with its intense, sometimes confrontational imagery, has been transformative for my shadow work practice, bringing subconscious patterns to light with unflinching clarity.
Professional Readings
When reading for others:
~ Select decks with universal symbolism that clients can relate to
~ Consider inclusivity in the artwork to help diverse clients see themselves
~ Choose cards that tell clear stories without overwhelming newcomers
The Everyday Tarot strikes a perfect balance for client readings—modern enough to feel relevant without intimidating those new to tarot.
Specific Question Categories
Some decks align better with particular areas of inquiry:
Love and relationships: Romantic or heart-centered decks like The Heart of Stars Tarot
Career and prosperity: Decks with earthy or abundant imagery like The Tarot of the Witches
Spiritual growth: Decks with ethereal or cosmic imagery like The Starchild Tarot.
Celebratory or Seasonal Readings
For special occasions or seasonal transitions:
Samhain/Halloween: Gothic or ancestral decks like The Halloween Tarot
Beltane/May Day: Floral or fertility-themed decks like The Herbcrafter’s Tarot
Winter Solstice: Decks featuring light/dark symbolism like The Winter Waite Tarot
Mini Tarot Practice: One-Card Clarity
1. Ground (1 minute)
Close your eyes, take 3 slow breaths. Feel your feet on the floor. Say (out loud or silently):
“I’m grounded, I’m present, I’m open.”
2. Set an Intention (30 seconds)
Ask a clear, open-ended question like:
“What energy do I need to be aware of today?”
“What do I need to focus on right now?”
“What message wants to come through for me?”
3. Shuffle & Draw (2 minutes)
Shuffle slowly, keeping your question in mind. When it feels right, pull one card.
4. Reflect (2–5 minutes)
Look at the card. What’s your first instinct or feeling?
Then, ask yourself:
What stands out in the image?
How does this card answer my question?
What action can I take based on this message?
5. Close (optional)
Say: “Thank you. I release this reading and carry it with clarity.”
Jot a note in your journal or grimoire if you’re tracking readings.
Caring For Your Tarot Decks
Your tarot cards are more than cardstock—they’re tools that absorb and channel energy. Proper care ensures they remain clear channels for your readings:
Physical Maintenance
Store cards in cloth bags, wooden boxes, or their original packaging
Keep cards away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt buildup
Consider sleeves for frequently used decks to prevent wear
Energetic Cleansing
Just as sacred spaces need cleansing, so do your cards:
Moonlight bath: Place cards (in their box) under the full moon overnight
Smoke cleansing: Pass cards through the smoke of sacred herbs
Sound cleansing: Ring a bell or singing bowl over the cards
Crystal clearing: Store cards with a clear quartz crystal
Knocking method: Knock on the deck three times to clear previous readings
I cleanse my cards at the dark moon each month, creating a simple ritual with sea salt, moonlight, and a moment of meditation to reset their energy.
Creating Sacred Space
Designate a special altar or shelf for your decks
Use a special cloth or mat for readings
Consider keeping specific crystals or herbs with certain decks
Some practitioners “feed” their decks with appropriate offerings (leaving a crystal atop the deck, exposing them briefly to moonlight, etc.)
When to Retire or Pass On a Deck
Sometimes a deck’s energy shifts or no longer serves you:
~ If readings become consistently unclear or confusing
~ If you feel resistance or discomfort when using the cards
~ If the deck has been damaged beyond repair
~ If you feel intuitively called to pass it to someone else
Honor this transition by thanking the deck for its service before gifting, selling, or ritually disposing of it. I’ve found that burying retired cards in the earth or burning them with gratitude honors their journey with you.
Conclusion
The perfect tarot deck is ultimately the one that speaks to your soul—the one that feels like coming home when you hold it in your hands. While your first deck is special, most readers naturally collect multiple decks over time, each serving different purposes in their practice.
I encourage you to visit metaphysical shops where possible, to hold and feel the energy of different decks before purchasing. If buying online, research thoroughly—read reviews, look at multiple card images, and trust your intuition about whether a deck is calling to you.
Remember that tarot is a conversation between you, the cards, and the universal energies they represent. The right deck facilitates this conversation with clarity and resonance, becoming not just a divination tool but a trusted companion on your spiritual journey.
So mote it be.