Tarot 101: Choosing Your First Tarot Deck: A Practical Guide

Starting your tarot journey is exciting, but walking into the world of decks can feel overwhelming. There are thousands of designs, from classic Rider-Waite-Smith clones to modern themed creations. Some are artistic and abstract, while others are playful or minimal.

The truth is, there's no "one perfect deck" for everyone. What matters is finding a deck that feels readable and personal to you. In this guide, we'll go through practical things to look for in your first tarot deck, common beginner mistakes to avoid, and how to start building a comfortable connection with your cards.

1. Look for Clear Symbolism

Not all tarot decks are equally beginner-friendly. Some, called "pip decks," show plain suit symbols (like four cups or seven swords) without much imagery. These can be harder to read when you're learning, since they don't give you visual cues.

For a first deck, choose one with illustrated scenes on every card. Decks based on the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition are popular because they use consistent symbolism and storytelling in each card. When the images are clear, your brain has something to work with; it's easier to notice patterns and spark insight.

2. Pick Artwork That Resonates With You

A tarot deck is a tool you'll return to often, so the artwork needs to feel readable to you. Different brains process images in different ways; some people connect more with detailed medieval-style art, while others click with bold modern designs.

Don't be afraid to choose something playful if it works for you. For example, my favorite deck is the Wyspell Paws Tarot - it's literally cartoon cats, and it's the one I reach for daily. The point isn't to impress anyone with how "serious" your deck looks, it's whether the imagery sparks ideas and makes you want to use it.

3. Don't Stress About "The Perfect Deck"

Your first tarot deck doesn't have to be your forever deck. Many readers start with one and later discover another that feels more natural. Some even keep a small collection, using different decks depending on the mood or type of reading.

Remember: the "magic" is yours, not the cards'. The cards are just the tool: you bring the meaning through your focus, intuition, and reflection. If you find that another deck speaks to you better down the line, it's not a failure. It just means you've found a tool that fits you more closely.

4. Optional First-Use Rituals

Some people like to "clear" or welcome a new tarot deck with a ritual. This might mean shuffling with intention, sleeping with the deck under a pillow, leaving it out under the light of a full moon, or using smoke (like incense or herbs) to "smudge" it.

None of this is required. If you enjoy rituals, they can help you feel grounded and connected to the cards. If you're more practical, simply opening the box, giving the deck a good shuffle, and starting to read is enough. There's no wrong approach, the important thing is that you feel comfortable with your deck from the beginning.

5. Storing Your Deck

There's no single "right" way to store your tarot deck. Some people wrap theirs in silk, keep it in a wooden box, or dedicate a special pouch. Others just use the cardboard sleeve it came in, or repurpose something that feels fun and personal.

For example, my first deck lived in its original box until I borrowed a tin from another deck, and now I'm eyeing a fake book Halloween decoration from the dollar store to hold the tin and my little spread book.

The takeaway? Store your deck in a way that protects it and makes you want to reach for it. It doesn't need to be fancy - just practical, personal, and easy to keep up with.

🌟 Wrapping Up

Choosing your first tarot deck is less about following rules and more about finding what works for you. Look for clear symbolism, artwork that speaks to your brain, and a format you'll actually enjoy using. Whether you skip rituals or create your own, whether you keep your deck in silk or a Halloween tin, the key is connection and consistency.

The best way to grow with your deck is to use it—pull a card, write about it, notice patterns, and let the practice build naturally.

👉 Next up: explore our Basic Spreads Guide or try a few Tarot Journaling Prompts to deepen your connection.

Good luck on your Tarot journey!

-StarredSprig 💜