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When I got my first tarot deck, I remember feeling like I suddenly had access to all the secrets of the universe…
(Spoiler: you don’t need a tarot deck for that!)
BUT, beginner friendly tarot decks can certainly be a great gateway to connecting with your intuition, your higher self, and can foster a huge amount of personal (and spiritual) growth.
I know there are SO many choices out there when it comes to tarot decks… so I’ve compiled a list of all the best tarot cards for beginners. These are ones that I own, have used or have researched extensively and believe them to be worthwhile for beginners to tarot.
Grab a cup of cacao and lets dive in!
Does Your First Tarot Deck Have to be Gifted to You?
There are some people who believe that your tarot deck must be gifted to you, however, among the majority of modern witches and spiritual seekers- the consensus is no.
You can buy your own tarot deck and use it as a tool on your journey. It doesn’t matter if it was gifted to you or not.
I think the narrative that tarot decks must be gifted in order for someone to use them is a form of gatekeeping.
Not everyone has access to people with the same beliefs/interests as them and if they were to wait for someone to gift them a deck, they would probably never get one.
How does that help anyone on their spiritual journey? I personally have gained SO much from using tools like tarot, oracle, crystals, herbs and more… If I had to wait for access to any of those things, I wouldn’t be where I am today. If you want one, go get one.
So, that being said- you absolutely do not need to wait for a tarot deck to be given to you.
Choose the one that calls to you and get started!
How to choose the right tarot deck as a beginner
Choosing your first tarot deck can be exciting, overwhelming and maybe even a little tough- there are so many to choose from!
Here are a few tips that will make choosing your first tarot deck a bit easier:
- Use your intuition: sometimes the first deck that jumps out at you or piques your interest is the one. Listen to those pulls and intuitive nudges, they just might lead you to your first (and favorite!) tarot deck.
- Read reviews: one perk of having options to buy online is the ability to read reviews. Wether you buy your deck from amazon, etsy, hay house or any other tarot deck supplier- you can read reviews and see if they resonate with you. This may take a little time and researching but its worth it.
- Don’t take it too seriously: many tarot users turn into collectors (guilty!). Your first deck will likely not be your last deck. If you’re feeling any pressure about the decision, remember that. You can always get another one, and likely you will!
Related reading: How to Strengthen Your Intuition
The Best Tarot Cards for Beginners (in no particular order)
1. Awaken Tarot:
What I love about the Awaken Tarot deck is the diverse representation and empowering artwork themes! For most beginners, tarot decks that have a lighter feel and positive vibe tend to translate better when it comes to learning.
This deck offers a fresh perspective on traditional tarot and the diversity that shows up in its images is refreshing.
For any beginner seeking uplifting but honest guidance on your personal journey, this deck is a must.
2. Guardian of the Night Tarot:
Guardian of the Night tarot deck has such a special place in my heart. My little brother (who’s 9 years younger than me) gifted me this for Christmas. Being the only witch in my family, this meant the world to me!
The artwork is absolutely stunning and evocative, full of nature imagery and animal symbolism. The cards themselves are high-quality and durable, which isn’t always the case with tarot decks.
It also comes with a guidebook that includes a meaningful interpretation for each card in the deck. As a beginner to tarot, it definitely helps the learning experience to get your hands on a unique booklet thats filled with approachable interpretations.
If you’re an animal lover, nature lover, and someone who views life in a grounded way- you’ll love this one.
3. The Muse Tarot:
The Muse Tarot is a stunning creation by Chris Anne. Her decks tend to be just that, stunning! This deck in particular is very colorful and creative which I think is wonderful, open energy for any beginner to start with.
I love that it has such a beautiful display of vivid creativity and still follows the traditional tarot symbolism. The guidebook it includes also makes for an easy to use and approachable experience.
I’ve used this deck and Chris Anne’s Lightseer’s Deck (below) to come to some very profound realizations and validations.
With the Muse Tarot deck, you can tap into your inner wisdom and unlock new levels of inspiration and growth.
>> Shop The Muse Tarot Cards on Amazon
4. Eighty Eight Miracles Gold Foil and Black Tarot Cards:
For those who love black and gold aesthetic, you’ll love this beginner friendly tarot deck! It follows the classic raider-waite tarot format and has straight forward imagery, symbolism and messaging. Plus, the sides of the deck are glimmering in gold foil- it feels so luxurious.
5. Vitacera Tarot Cards for Beginners:
The Vitacera Tarot Deck is a great option for any beginner who really wants to learn the in-depth meaning of each tarot card.
This beautifully designed deck features the full 78 traditional tarot cards following the Raider-Waite format. It goes even deeper by including meanings, symbolism, astrology, numerology and even which chakra each particular card is associated with.
In addition to its beauty and functionality, the Vitacera Tarot Deck has received numerous positive reviews from users who have found it to be an accurate and insightful tool for gaining clarity and guidance in their lives.
Having the symbolism, meanings, associated numerology and astrology listed right on the card really make it stand out. This is a great deck for those who want to memorize the meaning of each tarot card and maybe even has dreams of becoming a reader for others in the future.
6. Tarot of the Divine
The Tarot of the Divine is a powerful tool for any beginner who’s interested in gaining insight and clarity into your life’s journey. With its stunning artwork and rich symbolism, this deck is perfect for anyone looking to explore the deeper aspects of their spiritual path, even as a beginner.
Each card in the Tarot of the Divine deck is beautifully illustrated with vivid colors and intricate details, making them an inspiring joy to work with. Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or just starting out, this deck will provide you with the guidance and inspiration you need to navigate life’s ups and downs.
From the first card to the last, the Tarot of the Divine deck takes you on a journey through the major milestones of life. Each card represents a unique aspect of your journey, from the challenges you face to the opportunities that await you. With its powerful imagery and deep symbolism, this deck will help you connect with your inner wisdom and gain a deeper understanding of your life’s purpose.
Whether you’re seeking guidance on a specific issue or simply looking to explore the mysteries of the universe, the Tarot of the Divine deck is the perfect tool for unlocking your true potential. With its stunning artwork and powerful insights, this deck is sure to become a treasured companion on your spiritual journey.
Shop Tarot of the Divine on Amazon
You may also like: Ultimate Guide to Spiritual Awakening: Stages, Symptoms, and Tips
7. Rider-Waite Tarot
The Raider Waite Tarot deck is one of the most popular and widely used tarot decks in the world. This classic deck has been a favorite among tarot readers and enthusiasts for over a century, and for good reason!
With its timeless artwork and powerful symbolism, the Raider Waite Tarot deck is a perfect tool for gaining insight and guidance on life’s journey. Each card in the deck represents a unique aspect of the human experience, from the challenges we face to the opportunities that await us.
The Rider Waite Tarot deck is also known for its ease of use and accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tarot reader, this deck is perfect for anyone looking to explore the mysteries of the universe and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
But the benefits of the Raider Waite Tarot deck don’t stop there. This deck has a rich history and a profound influence on the world of tarot. It has been used by countless tarot readers and spiritual seekers over the years, and its insights and wisdom have helped guide many spiritual seekers over the years.
So, if you’re looking for a powerful and timeless tool to help you navigate life’s ups and downs, and want to get started on your tarot journey with one of the original decks, look no further than the Raider Waite Tarot.
Shop Rider Waite Tarot Deck for Beginners on Amazon
8. Radiant Rider-Waite
The Radiant Raider Waite Tarot Deck is just like the classic Rider-Waite except with more vibrant, modern artwork… and for that reason, I love this one!
It breathes new life into the traditional imagery of the original Rider-Waite deck.
Each card is richly detailed and bursting with symbolism, making it the perfect tool for both beginner and advanced tarot readers alike. The cards are clear and easy to interpret, while still giving you the essential foundation of tarot decks.
With its radiant and dynamic visuals, the Radiant Raider Waite Tarot Deck is sure to inspire and enlighten any tarot beginner seeking spiritual guidance, growth and insight.
>Shop Radiant Rider-Waite Beginners Tarot Deck on Amazon
9. LLewellyn Classic Tarot
The Llewellyn Classic Tarot deck is a popular choice for tarot beginners.
The traditional, classic imagery within it makes for easy understanding and interpretation. It also comes with a clear and concise guidebook that gives digestible details on the meaning of each card. The cards themselves have a smooth feel, making them super easy to shuffle… lets be real, learning how to shuffle is half the battle!
Another thing you may appreciate about this deck is the price. It tends to be a more affordable option which makes it an accessible tarot deck for beginners who may not want to invest in a more expensive deck yet.
>Check out the Classic Tarot deck on Amazon
10. Wild Unknown Tarot Deck
Another one of my favorite deck creators is Kim Krans. I find her style to be a beautiful blend of modern and ancient, full of the depth that an old soul like me needs in a deck! The Wild Unknown tarot deck is a great choice for beginners, it comes beautifully packaged and includes a guidebook that is alone worth the price.
The cards themselves are beautifully designed and capture the essence of nature and animal symbolism. Its minimalist yet intricate artwork inspires deep introspection and intuitive exploration, even for a beginner.
As mentioned above, this deck is also accompanied by a comprehensive guidebook that offers insightful interpretations and encourages personal reflection, making it a valuable tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. If you are drawn to nature, animals, and symbolism, the Wild Unknown Tarot deck is an excellent first choice that will ignite your imagination and deepen your understanding of the world around you.
I can’t recommend this deck enough, it has such a magical air about it! (so does her Archetypes deck, which I also LOVE).
Buy your copy of The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck on amazon here
Psstt! Wanna save this for later? Pin it on Pinterest!
11. True Heart Intuitive Tarot
If you’re looking for a unique, inclusive, friendly deck that features diverse imagery- True Heart Intuitive Tarot is for you.
It is incredibly approachable, welcoming, and relatable for people of all backgrounds and identities which I love. Not many decks include diverse imagery, but you can bet that all the ones I’ve come across that DO are on this list.
Another thing about this deck that I think is great for beginners is the gentle and compassionate energy it contains. This encourages deep introspection and emotional healing. It draws inspiration from nature, mythology and symbolism.
If you’re a beginner who values inclusivity, emotional healing, and intuitive exploration, the True Heart Intuitive Tarot deck is an excellent choice that will speak to your heart and guide you on your path of self-discovery.
>Shop True Heart Intuitive Tarot Here
12. Spiritsong Tarot
Another one of my absolute favorites is the Spirit Song Tarot.
The Spirit Song Tarot deck is a unique and powerful deck that blends animal and shamanic symbolism with traditional tarot imagery, creating a deck that is both mystical and grounded.
The deck’s vibrant and detailed artwork features a diverse cast of animals and their habitats, inviting you to explore the wisdom and energy of the natural world.
The included guidebook offers insightful interpretations and practical exercises for deepening your understanding and connection to the cards. If you are drawn to animal and nature symbolism, shamanic practices, and intuitive exploration, the Spirit Song Tarot deck is an excellent choice to begin with on your journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
13. Lightseers Tarot
As I mentioned above, all the diverse, inclusive tarot decks I’ve come across are on this list… The Light Seers is another!
I love the beautiful, vivid imagery that features people of all backgrounds and identities.
The deck draws inspiration from traditional tarot symbolism and combines it with contemporary themes, creating a deck that is both timeless and relevant.
If you are looking for a versatile and inspiring tarot deck that speaks to your heart and encourages you to explore your intuition and inner wisdom, the Light Seers Tarot deck is an excellent choice.
14. Green Witch Tarot
I feel like I say this about so many decks but its true, I adore this one. Anytime I need a positive spin, affirmation or validation about my path (especially related to career/purpose/finances) this is the deck I lean on.
I recommend it to beginners because of its beautiful illustrations and incredibly positive yet real guidebook interpretations.
If you are also interested in green witchcraft, this deck is for you. Each card features a specific herb and gives meaning behind it.
The deck’s intricate artwork draws inspiration from the natural world, featuring plants, animals, and elements of the earth, inviting you to connect with the wisdom and energy of nature.
The guidebook that provides clear and insightful interpretations of each card, making it easy for beginners to learn and understand the meanings and symbolism behind the cards.
>Shop Green Witch Tarot on Amazon
15. Vision Quest Tarot
The Vision Quest Tarot deck is a powerful and unique deck that combines traditional tarot symbolism with Native American spirituality, creating a deck that is both magical and grounded.
The deck’s stunning artwork features imagery and symbolism drawn from Native American culture, inviting you to connect with the wisdom and energy of the natural world.
The Vision Quest Tarot deck is accompanied by a comprehensive guidebook that offers insightful interpretations and practical exercises for deepening your understanding and connection to the cards, making it a valuable tool for beginners who are interested in exploring tarot from a different perspective.
If you are drawn to Native American spirituality, nature-based symbolism, and intuitive exploration, the Vision Quest Tarot deck is an excellent choice that will guide you on your journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
16. Moon Witch Tarot
The Moon Witch Tarot deck is a beautiful and intuitive deck that draws inspiration from lunar and feminine energies, making it a perfect choice for beginners who are interested in exploring tarot from a feminine and intuitive perspective.
The deck’s stunning artwork features enchanting and mystical imagery, inviting you to connect with the wisdom and energy of the moon and the divine feminine.
Accompanied by a comprehensive guidebook, you’ll have access to insightful interpretations and practical exercises for deepening your connection to the cards, making it a valuable tool for beginners who are looking to develop their intuition and spiritual practice.
If you are drawn to lunar and feminine energies, intuitive exploration, and self-discovery, the Moon Witch Tarot deck is an excellent choice that will guide you on your journey.
17. The Modern Witch Tarot Deck
All my spiritual seekers, prepare to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment unlike any other.
This enchanting deck, designed by Lisa Sterle, is a modern interpretation of the ancient art of tarot, blending the traditional symbolism with a contemporary aesthetic. The deck is imbued with a feminist spirit that celebrates and elevates the power of women, with each card depicting strong and diverse female characters.
From the vibrant and fiery energy of the Wands suit, to the emotional depth of the Cups, the intellectual prowess of the Swords, and the grounded stability of the Pentacles, each card offers a unique perspective and insight into our lives.
Whether you are a seasoned tarot reader or a curious beginner, the Modern Witch Tarot Deck is an essential tool for anyone looking to tap into their intuition and unlock their inner wisdom. With its stunning artwork and rich symbolism, this deck will help you connect with your higher self and navigate life’s challenges with grace and courage.
So, my dear friend, if you’re ready to embrace the magic within you, the Modern Witch Tarot Deck is waiting for you. Take the first step on your journey of self-discovery and let this deck guide you towards your fullest potential.
>Get the Modern Witch Tarot deck now on Amazon
18 . Angel Tarot Deck
Are you looking for a way to connect with your intuition and gain some guidance in your life? Look no further than the Angel Tarot Cards by Radleigh Valentine. This beautiful deck is the perfect introduction to the world of tarot, and was one of my first as well.
Radleigh Valentine’s gentle approach to tarot makes it easy to understand and use, even if you’ve never picked up a deck before. The cards feature stunning angelic imagery that is both inspiring and soothing, making it easy to connect with the messages they hold.
Whether you’re seeking clarity on a specific question or just want some general guidance, the Angel Tarot Cards can help you tap into your inner wisdom and find the answers you seek.
>Shop Angel Tarot Cards for beginners on Amazon
19. The Good Tarot
The Good Tarot deck is an excellent choice for beginners who are looking to explore the world of tarot. Here are a few reasons why:
- Accessible imagery: The cards in The Good Tarot deck feature colorful and uplifting imagery that is easy to understand and connect with. The artwork is designed to convey positive messages that are both inspiring and relatable.
- User-friendly guidebook: The accompanying guidebook provides clear and concise explanations for each card, making it easy for beginners to understand the meanings and interpretations.
- Intuitive approach: The Good Tarot deck is designed to be used intuitively, meaning you don’t need to have any prior knowledge or experience with tarot to use it effectively. The deck encourages you to trust your instincts and tap into your inner wisdom to interpret the cards.
- Positive focus: The messages in The Good Tarot deck are focused on positivity, self-improvement, and personal growth. This makes it an excellent tool for beginners who are seeking guidance and inspiration in their lives.
>Shop The Good Tarot for beginners on Amazon
20. Cat Tarot
If you’re a cat lover who’s new to tarot, the Cat Tarot deck is an excellent choice for you! Here are a few reasons why:
- Whimsical imagery: The Cat Tarot deck features adorable and whimsical cat illustrations that are easy to connect with. The artwork is designed to be fun and lighthearted, making it perfect for beginners who may feel intimidated by more serious tarot decks.
- User-friendly guidebook: The accompanying guidebook provides clear and concise explanations for each card, making it easy for beginners to understand the meanings and interpretations. The guidebook also includes tips and exercises to help you develop your intuition and deepen your understanding of the cards.
- Playful approach: The Cat Tarot deck encourages a playful approach to tarot, inviting you to connect with your inner child and have fun with the process. This makes it an excellent tool for beginners who want to explore tarot in a lighthearted way.
- Accessible messages: The messages in the Cat Tarot deck are focused on everyday life situations and emotions that are easy to relate to. This makes it an excellent tool for beginners who are seeking guidance and inspiration in their day-to-day lives.
There you have it! Which deck called to you? I’d love to hear what ends up being your first tarot deck choice! Let me know in the comments and as always, reach out via email or IG if you have any questions or would like more guidance choosing your first tarot deck.
Happy tarot reading!
XO
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