You've decided: "I want Tarot!" You go to a store (or a website), and there... hundreds of decks. Cats, dragons, classic drawings, abstractions, dark gothic images. How do you choose THE ONE? Is it true that the first deck must only be a classic one? What if I like "incorrect" cards?
Choosing a deck is like choosing a friend. With some, you feel light and joyful; with others, it's challenging but profound. In this article, we will break down all the nuances of selection so that your first purchase doesn't gather dust on the shelf.
Classic or Modern: what's better for a start?
There's a belief that a beginner MUST start with the classics. This isn't entirely true, but there's some sense to it.
- Classic decks (e.g., Rider-Waite) have clear symbolism described in thousands of books. You'll easily find the answer to the question "What does the dog on the Fool card mean?".
- Author's decks (Gnomes Tarot, Light Seer's Tarot) may have their own unique system. This is interesting, but you'll have to learn intuitively or look for a book specifically for that deck.
Tip: If you want to systematically study Tarot — choose a classic. If you just want to play around and develop your intuition — choose what's beautiful.
Three Pillars of Tarot: Waite, Crowley, Marseille
Almost all decks in the world are based on one of three systems. You need to choose your "language."
1. Rider-Waite Smith System
Who it's for: For 90% of beginners.
Feature: All cards (both Major and Minor Arcana) have pictorial scenes. The 4 of Wands depicts a celebration — you immediately understand the meaning.
Pros: Easy to memorize, a wealth of information.
2. Tarot of Thoth (Aleister Crowley)
For whom: For intellectuals, esotericists, lovers of astrology and Kabbalah.
Feature: Powerful energy, complex symbols, abstract minor arcana (just wands, no plot).
Pros: Depth.
Cons: Difficult to start with.
3. Tarot de Marseille
For whom: For lovers of history and pure structure.
Feature: Similar to playing cards. Minor arcana are not illustrated (just 5 cups).
Pros: Authenticity.
Cons: Difficult to read without knowledge of numerology.
Visuals: "like it — don't like it"
Tarot is a visual tool. You should want to hold these cards in your hands. You should like the card backs (you will see them often!).
Review the "deck gallery" online before purchasing. Pay attention to:
- Colors: Are you comfortable with bright or pastel?
- Style: Cartoonish, realistic, collage, minimalism?
- Emotions: Do the "scary" cards (Death, Devil, Tower) in this particular deck frighten you?
Test Drive: How to Check a Deck
If buying offline:
- Hold the box in your hands.
- Feel its weight.
- If there's an open sample — hold the cards. Are they comfortable to shuffle? Is the cardstock pleasant?
If buying online:
- Find a video review (unboxing) on YouTube.
- See how the cards look in hand.
- Imagine you are doing a spread with this deck. What are your feelings?
Top 5 Mistakes When Choosing
- Buying "to grow into". "I'll get a complex Crowley deck, I'll figure it out." Result: the deck sits unused because you're afraid of it.
- Buying mini-format. Small cards are convenient for travel, but the symbols are hard to see on them. For learning, a standard size is better.
- Ignoring cardstock quality. Thin cards will quickly wear out.
- Blindly following trends. Everyone's buying "The Wild Unknown Tarot", so I will too. But it doesn't "click" with you.
- Being afraid of dark decks. If you like gothic and "Vampire Tarot" — go for it! The main thing is that you feel comfortable.
Where to Buy: Original or Replica?
There are many cheap copies from AliExpress on the market. They cost pennies, but:
- Thin paper.
- Dull colors.
- Often no instructions (or they are in Chinese).
Original decks (from publishers US Games, Lo Scarabeo, Avvallon) are more expensive, but they last for years and have clear printing. This is an investment in your learning.
Questions and Answers
Yes! Most tarot readers have dozens. One for love questions, another for business, a third for meditations.
Nothing. It won't be offended. You can use them alternately or give the old one away (after energetically cleansing it, for example, with salt or simply with intention).
Yes, online! On Gadai.ME you can do readings without physical cards. This is a great way to learn the meanings before purchasing.
Conclusion
Your first deck is like first love. It will be remembered forever. Don't be afraid to make a mistake. Even if you buy the "wrong" deck, it will teach you to understand what you truly need. Listen to your heart (and a little common sense).
Try Tarot Online Before You Buy!
Practice on our website to understand the Rider-Waite system (we use its base).