How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you ready to begin your tarot journey but feel a little overwhelmed by all the beautiful decks you’re seeing? You’re not alone. Choosing your first tarot deck is a deeply personal experience (and sometimes a bit of a minefield) but with a little guidance, you can find one that speaks to your intuition and enhances your spiritual practice.

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll explore how to choose your first tarot deck with confidence, including what to look for, how to connect with a deck, and common myths around tarot cards.

✨ Why Your First Tarot Deck Matters

Your first tarot deck sets the tone for your journey into tarot and other card-based divination. Whether you're using tarot for personal reflection, spiritual growth, or to offer readings to others, the right deck can give you a deeper connection to the cards and make learning easier.

We’ve heard time and time again “Do I have to be gifted my first tarot deck?” and honestly, the answer is no. This is a common myth among many people and nowadays is often seen as quite an old-fashioned school of thought. While some traditions still feel it’s important your first deck is gifted to you, you are absolutely allowed to buy your own tarot deck, especially one that aligns with your energy and style.

🔮 Key Things to Consider When Choosing Your First Tarot Deck

1. Go With a Beginner-Friendly System

For most new readers, starting with a Rider-Waite-Smith deck or one based on its structure is highly recommended. This system is the most widely used, and nearly all beginner tarot books and online tutorials are based on it.

✅ Look for decks labelled as “Rider-Waite-Smith-based” or “ideal for beginners.”

2. Choose Artwork That Resonates With You

Visual connection is everything in tarot. You're more likely to bond with a deck if the illustrations feel meaningful, inspiring, or emotionally resonate with you.

There are a few different things to consider such as:

• Colour scheme and mood
• Diversity and inclusivity in imagery
• Symbolism and how intuitive it feels

Tip: Browse our tarot cards collection to see a range of artistic styles.

3. Consider the Size and Feel

Physical comfort matters when shuffling, holding, and spreading your cards.

• Standard tarot decks are around 7cm x 12cm (2.75" x 4.75") 
• If you have smaller hands, look for pocket decks
• For larger spreads or if you’re after more detailed imagery, oversized decks may be ideal

Also think about the card stock, do you prefer thinner cards or thicker cards, do you prefer smooth, glossy finishes or matte, tactile textures?

4. Read Reviews and Descriptions

When shopping online, read product descriptions and customer reviews. Look for mentions like:

• “Perfect for beginner tarot readers”
• “Includes guidebook or meanings booklet”
• “Easy-to-understand imagery”

You’ll find these notes especially helpful when browsing curated metaphysical shops like ours.

5. Decide If You Want a Guidebook Included

If you're a beginner, having a guidebook with interpretations and card meanings can be incredibly helpful. Some decks come with full-length companion books, while others have simple keyword booklets.

Alternatively, you can always pair your deck with a separate beginner tarot book or follow online tarot tutorials.

🌙 Connecting With Your Deck

Once you’ve chosen your first tarot deck, take time to connect with it:

• Cleanse it with incense, sound (singing bowl), or moonlight
• Sleep with it under your pillow to attune to its energy
• Practice daily pulls to build familiarity
• Keep a tarot journal to track your interpretations

Remember: trust your intuition. If a card makes you feel something, that’s your inner wisdom speaking.

💫 Best Tarot Decks for Beginners (Top Picks)

Need some inspiration? These are some popular beginner decks we carry that are perfect for starting your tarot practice:

• The Rider-Waite Tarot – Classic, symbolic, foundational
• The Modern Witch Tarot – Diverse, bold, modern twist on RWS
• Crystal Visions Tarot – Dreamy and intuitive with gentle imagery
• Everyday Tarot Mini – Compact, beginner-friendly, and practical

Browse our Tarot Deck Collection to find the one that calls to you.

🔁 Final Thoughts: Trust the Pull

Choosing your first tarot deck is part research, part intuition. Let yourself be guided by what excites or intrigues you, and don’t be afraid to explore. The most important part of tarot reading is your connection to the cards but always remember that this will grow with time and practice.

Still not sure which deck is right for you? Contact us or message us on Instagram for personalized recommendations.

🧿 Related Posts You Might Love:

• “How to Cleanse Your Tarot Deck: 5 Easy Rituals”
• “Top 10 Tarot Spreads for Beginners”
• “Tarot vs. Oracle Cards: What’s the Difference?”