There are many factors that go into choosing a Tarot Deck to work with.

There are many places you can find Tarot Decks… metaphysical book stores and even Barnes and Nobles has many decks to choose from. Most metaphysical bookstores have a sample deck open that you can look at the cards and get a better feel for the deck. Consider many things when choosing a deck. I always say, "Let the deck choose you." Ask yourself the following questions…

How does the deck make you feel when you look at it and when you hold it?
You want a deck that feels good to you, one you think you will enjoy working with. A lot of Tarot reading is interpreting your visceral reactions to the cards. If you don't like the deck or feel even vaguely uncomfortable with it when you aren't even asking a question, it's probably not the deck for you.


Do the symbols and pictures on it correlate to your own symbol set?
If numerology is very important to you, you may want a deck that has more of the numerological symbols. If you are a student of the Kabbala, then you may find that you are more comfortable with a deck that was drawn from this view-point, and so on. The deck I personally use most often… "Legend… The Arthurian Tarot" … reflects on my knowledge, memories and general good feelings about the Celts; their histories and legends.


Do you like the style of the artwork?
There are esthetics to everything; but in this case, if you can't stand to look at the pictures, then the deck isn't likely to work for you. You will be fighting it every step of the way, because you simply don't like it. You must be comfortable with all angles of the Tarot deck you choose.


Do the Minor Arcana cards have pictures, or only the Majors?
Some decks do, and some don't. The deck I use does. Some people find they prefer decks that only have so many coins, or so many swords, on the Minors. For them, it leaves more room for interpretation. Make sure the deck you choose follows your preference in this, too.


Is the deck physically comfortable to deal with?
If your hands are small, you may not be able to shuffle a deck of large cards comfortably, no matter how much you like them otherwise. If you only intend to read once in awhile, that may not be much of a consideration. But if you will have to be handling them for several hours a day, it might be! Personally, a round deck is uncomfortable to me.


Can you afford this deck?
It would be nice if this wasn't a consideration, but it is and, believe me, some are pricey! If a deck really speaks to you, you may want to save up for it over time. Or you may want to grab several of your closest friends, and suggest that if they all get together, this would be a really great gift for any occasion.


You may have other considerations, too. If so, pay attention to them. And remember, there are lots of different decks out there; more than there have ever been before. Take your time, look around, and again… "let the deck choose you!" This will usually be the one that really works for you!

The Rider-Waite cards are great for beginners and easy to start with. If you take a Tarot reading class, this deck will more than likely be used. If unsure, this is a good deck to start with and is reasonably priced.

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