This post is from Wendy, a studio manager and lead teacher. Wendy has been sharing her practices of tarot + journaling in a range of different workshops over the last few years – last summer’s tarot event was sold out with a waitlist! Read on for some of Wendy’s tips on selecting a deck that works for you.
One of my favorite self-reflective practices is reading tarot cards for myself. It’s been such a meaningful part of my own journey, and something I love to share with other folks. Whenever I do, the same question inevitably comes up: “How do I choose a deck?”
There are sooo many tarot and oracle card decks available today. Traditional decks, Indie decks, & mass-market decks – all with different art styles and themes. It can be pretty overwhelming at first, so here are a few things to think about that might help you narrow things down:
1. Define your “Why”
Most decks are beautiful works of art. If you want to add more beauty to your life, choose a deck you love to look at. I definitely have a few of those! If you’re wanting to use those cards for divination or self-reflection, look for images that tell a story. Find cards with layers of symbology and lots of interesting details – things that you don’t necessarily notice the first time. Look for cards that make you curious, that make you pause and look a little closer.
2. Look for your own reflection
When you’re trying to uncover your inner voice, it’s easiest to use a deck that speaks to your unique values and interests. For example, I’m happiest when I’m swimming in a lake, digging in the garden, or walking through the forest, so most of my favorite decks are nature-themed. When I see a honeybee on a card, I don’t just see honey or a stinger; I see community, a hive working together, and the sweetness of a harvest. Whether you love modern art, history, cats, pop culture, or decks that celebrate queer joy, there is a deck out there that speaks to exactly who you are.
3. Explore the artists behind the cards
If you’re looking for something unique, try searching for “indie tarot decks.” You’ll find incredible creations by independent artists, and some great sites that review them. I think it’s important to take a little time to learn the story behind the deck before purchasing. It adds another layer of meaning to the cards, and ensures your practice supports independent creativity by real artists.
Share your story with us!
If you find a deck that speaks to you, I hope you’ll bring it to our Tarot as a Contemplative Tool workshop on Sunday, July 19. I love seeing all the beautiful artwork and hearing the stories of why people chose their decks and what those images represent for them.
No deck yet? Come anyway! I’ll have a few different tarot and oracle decks available for you to explore and see what kind of imagery speaks loudest to you.
With care,
Wendy
The Branches 