Ever walked into a store (or scrolled online) looking for a tarot deck and felt completely overwhelmed? Yeah, you’re not alone. With hundreds of designs, themes, and vibes to choose from, picking a deck can feel like trying to find your soulmate in a crowd—exciting but also kind of stressful.
The truth is, tarot decks aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some feel warm and welcoming, while others are mysterious and intense. Some decks whisper ancient wisdom, while others feel like they just want to grab a cup of coffee and chat. Finding one that truly resonates with you is a personal journey, and the best deck is the one that makes you feel comfortable, inspired, and connected.
So, how do you actually choose? Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to expand your collection, this guide will walk you through the key things to consider when picking a deck that feels like home. Let’s dive in.
Choosing a Tarot Deck: Follow Your Intuition and Find the Perfect Fit
1. Follow Your Intuition
The first (and most important) rule of choosing a tarot deck: trust your gut. If a certain deck catches your eye, makes you feel something, or keeps popping up in your life, that might be a sign it’s the right one for you. Tarot is all about intuition, so let that inner voice guide you from the very start.
2. Consider the Artwork
Tarot decks come in all kinds of styles—classic, modern, dreamy, gothic, minimalist, you name it. Since tarot is a visual tool, you want a deck where the images speak to you. Look at sample cards online or flip through a deck in person if possible. Do the colors, symbols, and overall energy make you feel inspired? If a deck feels lifeless or confusing to you, it might not be the best fit.
3. Think About the Symbolism
Most decks are based on the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system, meaning they follow a standard structure with recognizable imagery. If you’re new to tarot, starting with a deck that sticks to this system can make learning easier. Some decks take creative liberties with their symbols, which can be fun but might require extra effort to interpret. If you’re drawn to a more abstract deck, just make sure you’re comfortable with the way it communicates meaning.
4. Pick a Theme That Excites You
Tarot decks come in all kinds of themes—nature, mythology, pop culture, fantasy, animals, astrology, and even TV shows. If you’re passionate about a certain topic, why not let that inspire your choice? A deck that aligns with your personal interests will feel more engaging and natural to work with.
5. Check the Card Quality and Size
Ever tried shuffling a deck that’s way too big for your hands? Not fun. Some tarot decks have oversized cards, while others are smaller and easier to handle. Also, pay attention to the card stock—some are flimsy, some are thick and glossy, and some have a nice matte finish. If you’ll be using your deck often, you might want one that feels sturdy and comfortable to shuffle.
6. Read Reviews and Flip Through Previews
Before buying a deck, check out reviews or watch walkthrough videos online. This can give you a better idea of what the deck looks like in action. Many tarot creators also offer free previews of the deck, showing a few sample cards and explaining the inspiration behind them. A little research can help you avoid disappointment.
7. Don’t Overthink It
At the end of the day, there’s no “perfect” deck—only the one that feels right for you at this moment. You can always add more decks to your collection later (tarot collecting is a real thing, trust me). If a deck calls to you, go for it! Tarot is a personal experience, and your connection to your deck will grow over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a tarot deck isn’t about picking the most popular or expensive one—it’s about finding a deck that feels like an extension of you. Whether you’re drawn to classic designs or something completely out-of-the-box, trust your instincts and choose a deck that makes you excited to read. After all, the best tarot deck is the one that speaks to you. Happy shuffling!
