When it comes to finding a tarot deck, there are cases of love at first sight. You may be wandering through your favorite bookstore, when suddenly you’ll spot a new deck that seems to offer everything you want: smooth rounded corners, a glossy finish, and an attractive package. The sample images pictured on the box seem to whisper to you, with promises of wisdom, sensitivity, depth, and perception. When you slip the cards into your hand, you feel a tingle. You could picture yourself walking into a party with that deck, or introducing it to your friends and family.
But don’t make a long-term commitment based on first impressions — or someday, you might find yourself sitting at the kitchen table with a tarot deck that just doesn’t speak to you.
When you go off in search of the ideal deck, try to visit a store that has sample decks on display. Look at all of the cards, not just the images that are pictured on the box. Make sure that all 78 cards, Major and Minor Arcana alike, are fully illustrated. Look for art that appeals to you, in color, symbolism, and design. Examine the details of each illustration. You should be able to recognize several of the artist’s symbols — meaningful touches such as costumes, accessories, props, power animals, and astrological references. Don’t forget to consider the back sides of the cards. Chances are you will be looking at them almost as much as you look at the fronts.
If you’re torn between two or more decks, try a side-by-side comparison of several of the same Major Arcana, Minor Arcana, and Court Cards.
I offer tarot and astrology readings online and in person at my Haunted Antique Shop in DeLand, Florida. To schedule a reading, click here.