How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck
With hundreds of beautiful decks featuring everything from classic symbolism to modern cats, how do you possibly choose your first tarot deck? This guide will help you navigate the options, not with rigid rules, but with intuitive advice to find the deck that truly speaks to your soul.
Forget the “One Rule” You’ve Heard
You may have heard the old superstition: “Your first tarot deck must be a gift.” While a gifted deck can be special, it’s an outdated notion that can delay your journey. The most important factor is your personal connection. You are the one who will be building a relationship with these cards, so your own attraction is important. I have been gifted a number of wonderful decks, but my main reading decks I purchase for myself and I usually replace them every two years – but I do a lot of readings!
The First Tarot Deck “Look and Feel” Test
Before diving into specific traditions, start with your instincts, you are psychic after all so let it now work for you! When you look at images of a deck online or hold it in a store, how do you feel?
When you see the deck you may just feel an attraction or curiosity, It may just feel warm and fuzzy or just feel right. Note these different feelings. Some decks will “leave you cold” literally, so note these feelings too!
Once you have 4 or 5 “feel good” options, then move on to the following considerations. In many cases you will find different decks based on the same theme or system, so as you look at the options, again note your feelings and use hem to fine tune your selection. Look at;
- Artwork and Aesthetics: Are you drawn to vintage, Renaissance-style art, or clean, modern illustrations? Do you prefer vibrant colors or muted tones? The imagery should inspire you and feel accessible.
- Themes and Representation: Many contemporary decks are themed around nature, animals, fantasy, or specific cultures. Finding a deck that reflects your personal interests or identity can make the learning process more engaging.
- Cardstock and Size: Consider the physical deck. Do you have smaller hands? A large, heavy deck might be hard to shuffle. Is the cardstock glossy or matte? These practical aspects affect your daily practice.
- Understanding the Systems: Rider-Waite-Smith, Thoth, etc
While your intuition is your best guide, understanding the major tarot “systems” can help you narrow your search. Most decks are based on one of these foundational traditions.
The Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) System: This is the classic, most popular system. Created by A.E. Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, its strength lies in its pictorial symbolism. Every card, especially the Minor Arcana (like the 5 of Cups or 8 of Wands), tells a story through its image.
This makes it the best tarot deck for beginners to learn standard meanings. Most guidebooks and online resources reference RWS symbolism. Decks to consider: The Original Rider-Waite-Smith Deck, the Morgan-Greer Tarot, or any modern RWS-inspired deck.
The Thoth System: Developed by Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris, the Thoth deck is deeply rooted in Hermeticism, Qabalah, and the teachings of the Golden Dawn. It is rich with astrological, alchemical, and esoteric symbolism.
The cards often have more complex imagery and use different names for some Major Arcana (e.g., “The Aeon” instead of “Judgment”). This deck is powerful but can be challenging for a complete novice. It’s an excellent choice for those already studying Western esotericism or who are drawn to its intense, philosophical nature.
Wiccan and Nature-Based Decks: Many modern decks are infused with a Wiccan or pagan worldview, emphasizing the cycles of nature, the Goddess and God, and elemental magic. They often reinterpret traditional symbols through an earthy, magical lens. These are wonderful for those whose spirituality is connected to the natural world. Decks to consider: The Green Witch Tarot or the DruidCraft Tarot.
Marseille and Other Traditions: The Tarot de Marseille is a historic pattern that predates the RWS. Its Minor Arcana are often simple pips (like playing cards), placing more emphasis on numerology and intuitive interpretation. It’s a fantastic system for those who want to develop a less prescriptive, more intuitive practice from the start.
Your First Tarot Deck: My Recommendation
For 99% of beginners, I recommend starting with a deck based on the Rider-Waite-Smith system.
This system provides the most straightforward visual learning tool and has a lot of resources and information availabel for it.
Once you understand the core symbolism of the RWS deck, you can more easily understand the variations and deeper layers of other systems like the Thoth or Marseille. Learn the basics the easy way – then branch out!
Final Advice: Trust Yourself and Have Fun
Ultimately, the “right” deck is the one you feel a spark with. Read reviews, look at sample images online, and listen to that little voice inside. Your first tarot deck is the beginning of a profound conversation with your inner self. Choose the one that you’re excited to talk to.