Creating Your Own Tarot Deck - Some helpful advice for independent creators.

It is March 2021 at the time of this writing. That means it’s been three years since I began the first painting of the WilderWoven Tarot. When I took on this project, I remember looking for (but couldn’t find) a general overview or guidance around independently creating a tarot deck. So if you’re interested in creating your own, I have some advice for you.

I’m going to divide this topic into two parts. In the first part, I’ll discuss the steps I took planning and creating the artwork for my deck. And in the second part, I’ll discuss my experience finding a print shop, producing the deck, and marketing the final product to the public.

Steps for planning & creating your deck...

1. Research. Research. Research.

A great place to start is making sure that you are very familiar with all the card meanings. Read guidebooks of the decks in your collection or those found online. Each card of the tarot represents specific events, emotions, and teachings. Of course you have creative liberty when it comes to how you interpret the cards, but keep in mind that it may be difficult for others to read your deck if your cards appear to deviate too far from their standard meanings.

Refresh your understanding of the differences between the Major and Minor Arcana. What subjects are expressed by the four suits? What do the court cards represent? Make a list of all the card names and write keywords associated with them.

Watch videos of professional tarot card readers. They are able to expertly explain the deeper meanings behind the cards. Take notes on what you learn.

If you haven’t already, establish a regular practice of reading cards. (It can be just for yourself.)

Lastly, study the artwork found in other decks. Compare how those artists have chosen to represent specific cards. Are there any obvious similarities or interesting differences?