Tarot Decks

Today there are a huge number of Tarot decks (packs) available to buy. These vary from those steeped in symbolism to those which are more decorative than functional (my favourite example of the latter is the beautiful Salvador Dali tarot deck).

Some so-called Tarot decks only include the 22 Major Arcana. These are great for putting up on your wall but personally I'd never use them for a reading.

If you already have a grounding in some form of psychic tradition then there is almost certainly a Tarot deck designed for you. Everything from ancient knowledge through Wicca and the New Age has been incorporated by someone into Tarot symbolism.

It will probably take several decks and some years before you discover which one is right for you. For the beginner, the Rider Waite deck is usually recommended. This is easily available, has all the Minor Arcana illustrated and the symbolism is generally quite benign. For those who like the Rider Waite symbolism but want something more striking in appearance the Diamond Tarot takes the original RW drawings and reworks them with a more psychedelic colour scheme.

For more ideas, see the Tarot store.

The best way of finding the right deck for you is trial and error. Look at some illustrations of carious decks and buy one or two that appeal, then work with them for a while. Instinct will tell you if they work well for you. Remember that some people find particular decks work better than others for certain types of situation or question; there's no reason not to have several that you use according to circumstances.