You’ve decided you want to learn tarot. Maybe you’ve been curious for years. Maybe a friend gave you a reading that left you wanting more. Maybe you just feel drawn to the cards in a way you can’t quite explain. Whatever brought you here, you’re now facing a question that stops many people in their tracks: how do you choose your first tarot deck?
Walk into any metaphysical shop or scroll through any online marketplace, and you’ll find hundreds of options. Decks with angels, decks with cats, decks with dark gothic imagery, decks with bright watercolors. Traditional decks, modern decks, minimalist decks, maximalist decks. The choices are honestly overwhelming.
And then there are the opinions. Everyone seems to have a strong take on which deck is “best” for newcomers, whether you should buy your own deck or wait for one to be gifted, and which decks are “too advanced” for someone just starting out.
No wonder so many people get stuck before they even pull their first card.
This guide is here to “cut through the noise” for you. We’re going to walk through everything you need to know about choosing your first tarot deck, from understanding what makes a deck beginner-friendly to debunking the myths that might be holding you back. By the end, you’ll have the clarity and confidence to pick up a deck that feels right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Your first tarot deck shapes your learning journey, but it doesn’t have to be perfect. The deck you learn with becomes your foundation. Its imagery is what you’ll picture when you think of The Fool or The Tower. But you’ll likely own many decks over time, so don’t put too much pressure on this one decision. The right deck is the one that makes you want to pick it up and practice.
- The “gifted deck” myth is just that: a myth. You don’t have to wait for someone to gift you a tarot deck. That belief comes from a time when decks were rare, expensive luxury items. Today, choosing your own first tarot deck is actually empowering. It’s your first act of trusting your intuition.
- Beginner-friendly decks share specific qualities. Look for fully illustrated Minor Arcana (not just pip-style suit symbols), clear and intuitive symbolism, connection to Rider-Waite-Smith tradition (so learning resources match your cards), a detailed guidebook, and good card quality that feels comfortable in your hands.
- Trust your gut, but balance aesthetics with readability. A deck can be visually stunning but difficult to learn with if the imagery is too abstract or stylized. Choose something that draws you in AND supports your learning. When you look at the cards, you should be able to get a sense of their meaning even before reading the guidebook.
- Stop researching and start practicing. Analysis paralysis is real. If you’ve been comparing decks for weeks, it’s time to just choose one. Your first tarot deck doesn’t have to be your forever deck. You can’t learn tarot by reading about it. You learn by pulling cards, sitting with them, and building a relationship with your deck over time.
Why Your First Tarot Deck Actually Matters
Here’s something people don’t always tell you: your first tarot deck shapes your entire relationship with tarot.
The deck you learn with becomes your foundation. Its imagery is what you’ll picture when you think of The Fool stepping off the cliff or The Tower crumbling. Its style influences how you interpret cards for years to come. And your emotional connection (or lack of connection) to that deck affects how motivated you are to keep practicing.
This doesn’t mean you have to find the “perfect” deck on your first try. You’ll likely own many decks over your tarot journey. But choosing a first tarot deck that resonates with you and supports your learning makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.
Think of it like learning an instrument. You could technically learn guitar on any guitar. But if you start with one that’s uncomfortable to hold, has strings that hurt your fingers, and sounds terrible no matter what you do, you’re much more likely to give up. The same principle applies here.
A good first tarot deck should:
- Feel inviting, not intimidating
- Have imagery that speaks to you
- Support your learning rather than confuse you
- Make you excited to pick it up and practice
That last point matters more than people realize. Tarot is a practice. You get better by doing it regularly. And you’re much more likely to practice with a deck you genuinely enjoy using.
The “Gifted Deck” Myth: Let’s Put This One to Rest
Before we go any further, we need to address one of the most persistent myths in the tarot world: the idea that you shouldn’t buy your own first tarot deck.
You’ve probably heard some version of this: “Your first deck has to be a gift.”, “You can’t buy your own cards or they won’t work.”, “A deck needs to be given to you by someone who recognizes your gift.”
Let’s be clear: this is a myth. A well-intentioned myth with interesting historical roots, but a myth nonetheless.
The origins of this belief trace back to times when tarot decks were rare, expensive, hand-painted luxury items. Owning one was a privilege, and receiving one as a gift was often the only way most people could access them. There are also theories that this myth emerged from secretive occult societies where decks were passed from teacher to student as part of initiation.
But we don’t live in that world anymore.
Today, tarot decks are widely available, affordable, and meant to be accessible to anyone who feels called to them. Waiting for someone to gift you a deck could mean waiting forever. And there’s something deeply empowering about choosing your own first tarot deck, trusting your intuition from the very start.
If someone gifts you a deck and it resonates with you, wonderful. But if you want to walk into a store, hold different decks in your hands, and choose the one that calls to you, do it. Your deck will work just fine. The cards don’t care who paid for them.
The only thing that matters is your connection to the deck and your willingness to learn.
What Makes a Tarot Deck Beginner-Friendly?
Not all tarot decks are created equal when it comes to learning. Some decks are designed with newcomers in mind, while others assume you already know the traditional meanings and can interpret abstract or minimalist imagery.
When you’re choosing your first tarot deck, look for these qualities:
Fully Illustrated Minor Arcana
This is probably the most important factor for beginners.
A tarot deck has 78 cards: 22 Major Arcana (the big, archetypal cards like The Fool, The Tower, Death) and 56 Minor Arcana (divided into four suits, similar to playing cards).
In some older decks, the Minor Arcana cards only show the suit symbols. The Three of Cups, for example, might just show three cups arranged on the card with no scene or figures. This is called a “pip” style deck.
For learning, you want a deck where every card, Major and Minor, has a full illustration with figures, scenes, and symbolic details. These images act as memory aids. When you see three women dancing and raising cups together, it’s much easier to remember that the Three of Cups represents celebration, friendship, and community than if you’re just staring at three cups on a blank background.
Clear Symbolism
The best first tarot deck for learning will have imagery that makes intuitive sense. You should be able to look at a card and get a general feeling for its meaning, even before you read about it.
For example, the Ten of Swords traditionally shows a figure lying face-down with ten swords in their back. You don’t need a guidebook to understand that this card represents an ending, defeat, or hitting rock bottom. The image tells the story.
Decks with overly abstract or artistic imagery can be beautiful, but they’re harder to learn with because the visual cues aren’t as clear.
Connection to Traditional Meanings
Most tarot books, courses, and online resources reference the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system. This is the most widely used tarot tradition, established by the deck published in 1909 with artwork by Pamela Colman Smith.
If your first tarot deck follows RWS symbolism (or is based on it), you’ll be able to use virtually any tarot learning resource and have it match your cards. This makes studying much easier.
Many modern decks are described as “RWS-based” or “Rider-Waite inspired,” meaning they follow the traditional structure and symbolism while updating the art style.
A Guidebook You Can Actually Use
Most decks come with a guidebook, sometimes called a Little White Book (LWB). The quality varies dramatically.
Some guidebooks are tiny pamphlets with just a keyword or two per card. Others are comprehensive books with detailed interpretations, spread suggestions, and journal prompts.
For your first tarot deck, a more detailed guidebook can be incredibly helpful. You’ll reference it constantly as you learn, so having thorough explanations makes a real difference.
Card Size and Quality
This might seem minor, but it affects your daily experience with the deck.
Standard tarot cards are larger than playing cards, typically around 2.75 x 4.75 inches. Some people find larger cards harder to shuffle, especially if they have smaller hands. Other decks come in mini or pocket sizes, which are easier to handle but harder to see the details in the imagery.
When evaluating card size, think about how you plan to use your deck. Will you carry it with you? Do you have limited table space for spreads? Do you want to see fine details in the artwork? These practical considerations matter.
Card stock quality also matters more than most people realize. Thin, flimsy cards bend and wear out quickly. Cards that are too thick can be hard to shuffle and may not fan out nicely for selection. A good middle ground is sturdy but flexible cardstock with a matte or linen finish that doesn’t stick together.
Glossy finishes look beautiful in photos but can be slippery and show fingerprints quickly. Matte and linen finishes tend to handle better over time and develop a nice feel as you use them.
If possible, watch video reviews that show someone actually shuffling and handling the cards. This gives you a much better sense of quality than photos alone.
Popular First Tarot Deck Options for Beginners
With those criteria in mind, let’s look at some decks that consistently work well for people just starting out.
The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot
This is the classic. The one most people picture when they think of tarot.
Originally published in 1909, the Rider-Waite-Smith (often just called Rider-Waite or RWS) set the standard for modern tarot. Nearly every tarot book and course references its imagery. Learning with this deck means every resource out there will match what you’re looking at.
The symbolism is clear and intentional. Every detail, from the colors to the positioning of figures to the background elements, carries meaning. It’s designed to be read intuitively.
Pros:
- Universal reference point for learning
- Highly detailed, symbolic imagery
- Widely available and affordable
- Massive community of readers who use it
Cons:
- Some people find the art style dated
- Limited diversity in the figures depicted
- The imagery can feel very traditional/Western
The RWS is available in many versions, including recolored editions, borderless editions, and various sizes. If you like the symbolism but want a fresher look, there are options.
The Modern Witch Tarot
This deck by Lisa Sterle takes the classic RWS imagery and reimagines it with diverse, contemporary, fashion-forward figures. It’s instantly recognizable as RWS-based, so all your learning resources still apply, but the art feels current and inclusive.
Pros:
- Diverse representation
- Vibrant, modern art style
- Faithful to RWS symbolism
- Appeals to people who find traditional decks stuffy
Cons:
- The modern aesthetic might not appeal to everyone
- Some details from the original RWS are simplified
The Light Seer’s Tarot
Created by Chris-Anne, this deck has a bohemian, ethereal quality. The figures are diverse and the imagery is dreamlike while still being readable. It follows RWS structure but with a more spiritual, free-flowing interpretation.
Pros:
- Beautiful, atmospheric artwork
- Diverse figures
- Detailed guidebook
- RWS-based but with a unique feel
Cons:
- Some symbolism is more abstract than traditional RWS
- The dreamy style might not resonate with everyone
The Classic Tarot by Liz Dean
If you want something very close to the original RWS but with slightly updated artwork and an excellent guidebook, this is a solid choice. It’s designed specifically for learning.
Pros:
- Clear, traditional imagery
- Comprehensive guidebook
- Affordable and widely available
Cons:
- Art style is still quite traditional
- Limited diversity
Tarot Decks with Keywords
Some decks print keywords directly on the cards, which can be extremely helpful when you’re learning. You don’t have to constantly flip to the guidebook because the core meaning is right there.
Examples include the Everyday Tarot by Brigit Esselmont and the Quick and Easy Tarot.
Pros:
- Built-in learning aid
- Great for quick readings when you don’t want to look things up
Cons:
- Keywords can feel limiting once you advance
- Less visually clean
- You might rely on the keywords instead of developing your intuition
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying
Choosing your first tarot deck is ultimately a personal decision. These questions can help you narrow down what you’re looking for:
What Art Style Draws You In?
Tarot is a visual tool. You’ll be looking at these images constantly. Do you prefer:
- Classic, traditional artwork?
- Modern, minimalist designs?
- Dark, gothic aesthetics?
- Bright, colorful illustrations?
- Realistic or fantasy imagery?
- Nature themes? Celestial themes? Animal themes?
There’s no wrong answer. What matters is that the imagery pulls you in and makes you want to engage with it.
Spend some time browsing deck images online. Notice which ones make you stop scrolling. Notice which ones you keep coming back to. Your gut reaction tells you something important about what will resonate with you long-term.
Do You Want to Follow Traditional Symbolism?
If you plan to use standard tarot books and courses for learning, an RWS-based deck will make your life easier. The imagery will match what’s being described, and you won’t have to mentally translate between what you’re reading and what you’re seeing on your cards.
If you choose a deck with non-traditional imagery, your learning path looks different. You’ll rely more heavily on the guidebook that came with your deck. You might need to find resources specific to that deck or that style of tarot. And you’ll likely develop more personal, intuitive meanings rather than learning standardized interpretations.
Neither path is wrong. But it’s worth knowing what you’re choosing. If you’re someone who likes structure and clear guidance, traditional symbolism will serve you. If you prefer forging your own path and trusting your instincts from day one, you have more flexibility.
How Important Is Representation?
Traditional tarot decks feature predominantly white, cisgender, heteronormative imagery. If seeing yourself reflected in the cards matters to you, seek out decks with diverse figures.
There are now many beautiful decks featuring people of different races, body types, ages, gender expressions, and abilities. Little Red Tarot maintains an excellent list of diverse and inclusive decks.
Representation isn’t just about seeing yourself. It’s also about the messages you internalize as you learn. If every Queen in your deck looks a certain way, that subtly shapes your understanding of what queenly energy means. Diverse decks offer broader, more inclusive interpretations of the archetypes.
What’s Your Budget?
Tarot decks range from under $15 to well over $100. Mass-market decks published by large companies tend to be more affordable. Independent and artist-created decks often cost more due to smaller print runs and higher production costs.
Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect at different price points:
Under $20: Mass-market decks from major publishers. Quality can be excellent. These include classic RWS versions and many popular modern decks.
$20-$40: Most mainstream decks fall here. Expect good card quality, full-color guidebooks, and sturdy boxes.
$40-$70: Premium editions of popular decks, many indie decks, and decks with special features like gilded edges or larger guidebooks.
$70+: Limited edition decks, collector’s editions, and high-end indie productions with premium materials.
For your first tarot deck, you don’t need to spend a fortune. A $20 deck can serve you beautifully for years. As you develop your practice and preferences, you can explore pricier options.
Can You See the Cards Before Buying?
Whenever possible, look at all 78 cards before purchasing. Many websites show “flip-through” videos or complete card galleries. This helps you ensure you connect with the entire deck, not just a few highlight cards.
When previewing cards, pay attention to:
- The Minor Arcana: People often focus on Major Arcana, but you’ll use Minor Arcana more in readings. Make sure you like those cards too.
- The Court Cards: These are often the trickiest to interpret. See if the Pages, Knights, Queens, and Kings resonate with you.
- The “difficult” cards: Look at Death, The Tower, the Ten of Swords, the Three of Swords. Are these depicted in a way you can work with?
- Overall consistency: Does the whole deck feel cohesive, or do some cards look like they don’t belong?
If you’re buying in person, ask if you can open the deck or see a sample. Good shops will usually accommodate this. The few minutes you spend looking through the cards can save you from buyer’s remorse later.
Where to Buy Your First Tarot Deck
You have several options for purchasing, each with pros and cons.
Local Metaphysical or Bookstores
Pros:
- See and touch the decks in person
- Support local businesses
- Staff can offer recommendations based on experience
- Immediate purchase, no shipping wait
- You can often open decks or see samples
Cons:
- Limited selection compared to online
- Might be more expensive than online retailers
- Not available in all areas
Tips for buying in person: Ask the staff what they recommend for newcomers. Many metaphysical shop employees are tarot readers themselves and can offer valuable insights. Don’t feel pressured to buy immediately. It’s okay to visit, browse, and return another day.
Major Online Retailers (Amazon, Book Depository)
Pros:
- Wide selection
- Competitive prices
- Reviews from other buyers
- Convenient shipping
Cons:
- Can’t see the deck in person before buying
- Risk of damaged products in shipping
- Counterfeit decks exist (buy from reputable sellers)
- Returns can be complicated
Tips for buying from major retailers: Read reviews carefully, especially ones that mention card quality. Look for reviews with photos. Check seller ratings and buy from official or highly-rated sellers. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as counterfeit tarot decks do exist, particularly for popular titles.
Independent Tarot Shops
Pros:
- Curated selections of quality decks
- Support independent businesses
- Often carry indie decks you won’t find elsewhere
- Staff who are passionate and knowledgeable about tarot
- Better customer service for questions
Cons:
- Higher prices sometimes
- Shipping costs for online orders
- Smaller inventory than major retailers
Tips for buying from indie shops: These shops often have social media presence where they showcase new arrivals. Following them can help you discover decks you wouldn’t find otherwise. Many also offer deck consultations or recommendations if you tell them what you’re looking for.
Directly from Deck Creators
For indie and self-published decks, buying directly from the artist often means they receive a larger portion of the sale. It’s a great way to support independent creators.
Pros:
- Direct support to creators
- Sometimes exclusive editions or bonuses
- Often signed copies available
- Connect with the community around that deck
Cons:
- May have longer shipping times
- Limited payment options sometimes
- No returns in some cases
Used and Secondhand
Thrift stores, estate sales, and online resale sites sometimes have tarot decks at reduced prices. Some people worry about “energy” from previous owners. If this concerns you, there are many ways to cleanse and bond with a deck before using it.
Tips for buying secondhand: Check that all 78 cards are present. Look for damage, bends, or heavy wear. Ask about the deck’s history if possible. And remember, a thorough cleansing ritual can reset the energy of any deck if that matters to you.
What to Do After You Get Your First Tarot Deck
You’ve chosen your deck. It’s arrived. Now what?
Unbox Mindfully
Take your time opening your deck. This might sound silly, but the unboxing experience sets the tone for your relationship with these cards. Find a quiet moment. Maybe light a candle or put on some calm music. Create a small ritual around this moment.
As you remove the cards from their packaging, look at each one. Notice which cards draw your attention immediately. Which images make you curious? Which ones confuse you? Which ones make you slightly uncomfortable?
These first impressions often reveal something about where you are in life right now. The cards that stand out might be the ones with messages you most need to hear. Consider jotting down your initial reactions in a journal.
Read the Guidebook
Even if you plan to use other resources, flip through the guidebook that came with your deck. The creator included specific insights about their interpretation of the imagery.
Pay attention to:
- How meanings are explained: Does the style resonate with you? Is it too vague or too rigid?
- Unique interpretations: Does the creator offer perspectives you haven’t seen elsewhere?
- Spread suggestions: Most guidebooks include a few spread layouts to try.
- The creator’s philosophy: Understanding their approach helps you understand the deck.
You don’t need to memorize the guidebook. But familiarizing yourself with it means you’ll know where to look when you need guidance during readings.
Handle the Cards
Shuffle them. Get used to how they feel in your hands. Try different shuffling techniques. Some people riffle shuffle like playing cards. Others prefer the “overhand” method. Some like to spread the cards on a table and swirl them around.
Find what works for your hands and your cards. There’s no “correct” way to shuffle tarot.
Many readers like to do bonding rituals with new decks:
- Sleep with the deck under your pillow for a night or two. This is said to help the deck attune to your energy.
- Carry the deck with you for a few days in your bag or pocket.
- Hold the deck to your heart and set an intention for your work together.
- Go through each card and spend a moment with every image.
These practices might feel a little woo-woo, but they serve a practical purpose: they help you become comfortable with your cards before you start reading with them.
Start Simple
You don’t need to memorize all 78 cards before doing a reading. Start with single-card daily pulls.
Each morning (or evening, or whenever works for you), ask a simple question like:
- “What energy should I focus on today?”
- “What do I need to know right now?”
- “What lesson is present for me today?”
Draw one card. Sit with it. Look at the image before reaching for your guidebook. What do you notice? What feelings come up? What story does the image seem to tell?
Then read about its meaning. See how the traditional interpretation connects (or doesn’t) with your intuitive read.
This is how you learn tarot. Not by memorizing a textbook, but by living with the cards. Over time, meanings will stick because you’ve experienced them, not just read about them.
Keep a Tarot Journal
Write down your daily pulls, your interpretations, and what actually happened. This practice is one of the most powerful tools for learning tarot.
For each entry, include:
- The date
- The question you asked
- The card you drew
- Your initial intuitive impression (before looking it up)
- The guidebook meaning
- How the card showed up in your day (fill this in later)
Over time, patterns emerge. You might notice that the Eight of Pentacles always appears when you’re about to enter a period of focused work. Or that the Two of Swords shows up whenever you’re avoiding a decision. These personal patterns become the foundation of your unique reading style.
Your journal also tracks your growth. Six months from now, you’ll flip back and see how far you’ve come.
Be Patient with Yourself
Learning tarot takes time. Real time. You won’t master it in a week or a month or even a year. Some cards will click immediately. Others will confuse you for a long time before they suddenly make sense.
The Major Arcana tend to be more intuitive because their themes are big and archetypal. Most people can look at Death and understand it’s about endings and transformation, even without studying.
The Minor Arcana require more practice. The difference between the Three of Pentacles and the Eight of Pentacles isn’t immediately obvious. Learning the nuances of each suit takes time.
Court Cards (Pages, Knights, Queens, Kings) are notoriously tricky. Even experienced readers sometimes struggle with them. Don’t be discouraged if they feel confusing at first.
Trust the process. Every reading teaches you something, even the ones that don’t seem to make sense in the moment. Stay curious. Stay patient. The understanding will come.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Your First Tarot Deck
Let’s talk about some pitfalls to avoid.
Choosing Based Only on Aesthetics
A deck can be visually stunning but terrible for learning. If the imagery is abstract, minimalist, or heavily stylized, you might struggle to connect it to traditional meanings.
This doesn’t mean aesthetics don’t matter. They do. But balance beauty with readability, especially for your first tarot deck.
Buying a Deck Because Someone Told You To
Recommendations are helpful. But ultimately, you need to feel drawn to your deck. If someone insists you “must” start with a specific deck and that deck leaves you cold, it’s not the right deck for you.
Trust your intuition. It’s good practice for reading tarot anyway.
Assuming Expensive Means Better
A $100 indie deck isn’t inherently “better” than a $15 mass-market deck. Price reflects production costs, print run size, and creator markup, not quality of readings.
Start with what you can comfortably afford. You can always expand your collection later.
Getting Overwhelmed by Options
Analysis paralysis is real. If you’ve been researching decks for weeks and still can’t decide, it might be time to just pick one. Your first tarot deck doesn’t have to be your forever deck. It’s a starting point.
Ignoring the Minor Arcana
When browsing decks, people often focus on the Major Arcana (the “famous” cards like Death, The Lovers, The Tower). But you’ll spend more time with the Minor Arcana in actual readings. Make sure you like those cards too.
A Note on Tarot Systems
Most of this guide has focused on the Rider-Waite-Smith system because it’s the most common and the easiest to learn with. But you should know that other tarot traditions exist.
Marseille Tarot
This is one of the oldest tarot traditions, predating RWS by several centuries. The imagery is simpler and more iconographic. Most importantly, the Minor Arcana are pip-style, meaning they just show the suit symbols (like playing cards) without illustrated scenes.
Learning with Marseille requires a different approach. Without scenic imagery to guide interpretation, you rely more on numerology, suit associations, and the relationships between cards. Many readers love this system for its purity and flexibility, but it’s a steeper learning curve for someone just starting out.
If Marseille calls to you, consider learning RWS basics first, then transitioning. The foundational knowledge will transfer, and you’ll have an easier time.
Thoth Tarot
Created by Aleister Crowley and painted by Lady Frieda Harris in the mid-20th century, the Thoth deck has a devoted following. The artwork is striking and psychedelic, filled with astrological and Kabbalistic symbolism.
However, the Thoth system differs from RWS in significant ways. Some cards have different names. The symbolism draws from Crowley’s particular occult philosophy. The learning resources are more specialized.
For beginners, Thoth can feel overwhelming. The imagery is dense with esoteric meaning that isn’t immediately accessible. If you’re drawn to this deck, it might make sense to explore it as a second or third deck after you’ve built foundational knowledge elsewhere.
How to Identify Which System a Deck Uses
When shopping for decks, look for these clues:
- “RWS-based” or “Rider-Waite inspired”: The deck follows traditional RWS structure and symbolism.
- “Marseille-style” or “pip deck”: The Minor Arcana won’t have illustrated scenes.
- “Thoth-based”: The deck follows Crowley’s system.
- Check the card names: If Strength is numbered 8 and Justice is 11, it’s RWS. If those are reversed, it might be Thoth-based.
- Look at the Minor Arcana: Illustrated scenes = RWS tradition. Just suit symbols = Marseille or pip style.
For your first tarot deck, sticking with an RWS-based deck makes learning smoother. The vast majority of learning resources assume RWS, so your cards will match what you’re studying. You can always explore other systems later once you have a foundation.
Oracle Cards: Not Tarot
Oracle cards are sometimes confused with tarot, but they’re different. Tarot has a specific structure: 78 cards, 22 Major Arcana, 56 Minor Arcana divided into four suits. This structure is consistent across tarot traditions.
Oracle decks have no set structure. They can have any number of cards with any themes. Some have 30 cards, some have 60. Some focus on angels, some on animals, some on affirmations.
Oracle cards can be wonderful tools for intuition and guidance. But they’re not tarot, and learning to read them doesn’t teach you tarot. If you want to learn tarot specifically, make sure you’re buying a tarot deck with the traditional 78-card structure.
Our Approach: The Companion Tarot
We believe so strongly in making tarot accessible and intuitive that we created our own deck.
The Companion Tarot is a 79-card deck featuring Boston Terriers in every card, grounded in classic Rider-Waite symbolism with a playful, approachable twist. We designed it specifically for readers who want to trust themselves with tarot, not follow someone else’s rigid rules.
The deck includes a QR code card that gives you instant access to our 109-page digital guidebook, filled with card meanings, reflective questions, and practical spreads.
It’s our take on what a first tarot deck (or any tarot deck) should be: supportive, clear, meaningful, and just a little bit fun.
Resources for Learning Tarot
Once you have your deck, these resources can support your learning:
Books
- “78 Degrees of Wisdom” by Rachel Pollack – Considered by many to be the definitive tarot book. Deep, thoughtful, and comprehensive.
- “Tarot for Yourself” by Mary K. Greer – A workbook approach that helps you develop personal relationships with the cards.
- “The Ultimate Guide to Tarot” by Liz Dean – A solid, accessible introduction with clear explanations.
Websites and Apps
- Labyrinthos – Free app and website with lessons, quizzes, and card meanings.
- Learn Religions Tarot Section – Solid foundational articles.
- Tarot.com – Card meanings and free readings for practice.
Community
Finding other tarot learners and readers can accelerate your growth. Look for:
- Reddit communities (r/tarot is active and welcoming)
- Instagram tarot accounts
- Local meetups or classes
- Online courses and membership communities
Final Thoughts: Trust Yourself
Choosing your first tarot deck can feel like a big decision. And in some ways, it is. This deck will be your teacher, your mirror, your companion as you explore the cards.
But here’s what we want you to remember: there’s no wrong choice.
Any deck you feel drawn to can teach you tarot. Any deck you’re willing to practice with will serve you. The “perfect” deck doesn’t exist. The right deck is the one that makes you want to pick it up again tomorrow.
Trust your instincts. If a deck catches your eye, there’s probably a reason. If a deck feels right in your hands, that’s information worth honoring.
You already have everything you need to read tarot. The cards are just the tool that helps you access it.
Your Challenge This Week
If you’ve been thinking about getting your first tarot deck but haven’t taken the leap, this is your sign.
This week, do one of the following:
- Visit a local shop and spend 15 minutes looking at tarot decks in person. Or browse online, and spend 20-30 minutes looking at tarot decks. Notice which ones draw your attention.
- Watch three deck flip-through videos on YouTube for decks you’re considering. Pay attention to how you feel looking at all 78 cards.
- Just buy a deck. Stop researching. Stop comparing. Pick one that appeals to you and order it. You can always get another deck later. But you can’t start learning until you have cards in your hands.
Tarot is waiting for you. The only thing between you and your first reading is choosing to start.
We’ll be here when you’re ready.
Related Reading
- How to Bond with Your Tarot Deck: 5 Easy Tips for Beginners
- The Companion Tarot: Our Beginner-Friendly Deck
What was your first tarot deck? Or if you’re still choosing, which decks are you considering? Drop a comment below. We’d love to hear from you.
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- Beautiful & Functional Layout – Easy-to-use design for both beginners and experienced readers.
- Printable & Digital-Friendly – Print and add to your Tarot Journal, or use digitally with your favorite notetaking app!
Improve your Tarot practice with this beautifully designed Tarot Monthly Card Tracker! Whether you’re looking to uncover patterns in your readings or deepen your connection with the cards, this tracker makes it easy to document and reflect on your journey.
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